[57F] Experiencing severe back pain with associated symptoms

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

• Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal in your lower back narrows, putting pressure on your spinal cord and the nerves that travel through the spine. It often results in pain in the middle and lower back, weakness in the legs, and problems with bladder control.

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

• Lumbar Disc Herniation: This occurs when the softer inner part of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior. This can cause pain in your lower back and legs.

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

• Sciatica: This condition is caused by irritation of the root(s) of the lower lumbar and lumbosacral spine. It often results in pain that radiates from your lower back into your buttocks and legs.

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

Please note that these are possible diagnoses and you should consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Try over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or naproxen (Aleve), might help relieve acute back pain.

2. Use heat or cold: Soothe your back with heat using a heating pad or warm bath. Cold may also be beneficial when the pain first starts. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel directly to the back for up to 20 minutes at a time.

3. Stay active: Bed rest might seem like the right approach, but recent studies suggest staying active is good for your back. Exercise can help you recover more quickly, prevent reinjury to your back, and reduce the risk of disability from back pain.

4. Practice good posture: Poor posture can make back pain worse, especially if you sit for long periods. Don't slump over your keyboard. Sit upright, with your shoulders relaxed and your body supported against the back of your chair.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your back pain is severe and doesn't improve with rest
• If you have back pain that radiates down your leg or extends below your knee
• If you have new bowel or bladder problems
• If you have a history of cancer and develop sudden back pain
• If you have unexplained weight loss associated with your back pain

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment.