[50F] With severe back pain and muscle spasms

Patient Description

A 50-year-old female presents with a 5-year history of severe back pain extending from the top of the ribs to the lower back, rated 10/10 in intensity, which is exacerbated by standing, walking, and sitting. The patient also reports muscle spasms in the rib area that began a month ago, described as very painful and sudden in onset. Additionally, the patient experiences cramping flank pain near the kidneys, also described as coming and going, which started about a month ago following a urinary tract infection treated with antibiotics. The patient has a medical history significant for spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease (DDD), compressed nerves at L4 L5, kidney swelling due to stones, and sacroiliac joint arthritis. The back issues were diagnosed 5 years ago, and the kidney stones were identified last year. The patient is currently taking Gabapentin and has recently completed a course of Cipro, Ciprofloxacin, and Nitrofurantoin. No known drug allergies. No other medications reported.

Show More

Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be contributing to your symptoms:

  • Spinal Stenosis and Degenerative Disc Disease: These conditions can cause severe back pain and muscle spasms. The pain can be exacerbated by certain movements like standing, walking, and sitting, as you described.

    • Treatment typically involves pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.
  • Kidney Stones: The pain in your flank area and the history of kidney swelling due to stones could indicate that you have a kidney stone that is causing discomfort. Kidney stones can cause severe pain that comes and goes, and can also cause urinary symptoms.

    • Treatment for kidney stones often involves pain management and increased fluid intake to help pass the stone. In some cases, medical procedures may be necessary.
  • Sacroiliac Joint Arthritis: This condition can cause lower back pain and can be exacerbated by certain movements.

    • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

It's important to consult with your healthcare provider about these symptoms, as they can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. In the meantime, consider the following:

  1. Continue taking your prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
  2. Try gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your back, but avoid any movements that exacerbate your pain.
  3. Stay hydrated to help prevent kidney stones from forming.

What you should look out for

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Blood in your urine
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty urinating or a decrease in the amount of urine

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.

Show More

1
 Hugs
0
 Comments

Save

11 mo ago

Top picked over-the-counter products for Lower Back Pain: 3 Lines of Treatment

People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease?

Common symptoms of spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease include severe back pain, muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the legs. Pain is often worsened by standing, walking, or sitting for long periods.


How can kidney stones cause flank pain and what are the treatment options?

Kidney stones can cause severe, cramping flank pain that comes and goes, often accompanied by urinary symptoms. Treatment includes pain management, increased fluid intake, and sometimes medical procedures to remove or break up the stones.


What is sacroiliac joint arthritis and how is it managed?

Sacroiliac joint arthritis is a condition that causes lower back pain, often exacerbated by certain movements. Management typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and sometimes surgical intervention.


What should I do if I experience severe abdominal pain or blood in my urine?

If you experience severe abdominal pain or blood in your urine, it is important to seek immediate medical attention as these could be signs of a serious condition requiring urgent care.


Preview

Post

No comments yet

Be the first one to comment

Share your feedback

All Stories

Experiencing symptoms?

Our AI will conduct a medical interview and assess what might be happening. You can also make a post afterwards.

Share your feedback