What causes lower back pain?
Patient: My father has been having lower back pain, and after many trips to his chiropractor- he had xrays done- the chiro told him there was some darker shadowing he needed different angles of to ensure nothing was going on that would be concerning. What could this mean/be? He had stated if my dad ever had prostate problems he would be more concerned, but he never has...help? Doctor: Hi, thanks for posting your concern in the HCM.Back pain at this age may be due to several reasons. Commoner ones are- mechanical back pain, lumbar spondylosis, degenerative lumbar disease, UTI, Renal pathology or bowel problems.Therefore, a detailed history, physical examination and tests are needed for diagnosis.For the time being, my advice isXray LS Spine - Ap/lat (you haven't specified what Xray he has done. If the same was already done, you won't need to repeat)Complete blood count, urea, creatinine, Calcium, Vit D(25)Urine for routine examinationHe should have high fiber diet and Ispagulah husk 2 tsf in a cup of water at bedtime.Tab Paracetamol 500 mg twice daily for 3 days. Bed rest for 2 days.You should also consult your local physician for further evaluation. You may also need to consult an orthopaedic surgeon, if your physician feels that there is musculoskeletal problem.MRI of LS Spine may also be needed to rule out any spine abnormality.Regarding your concern about prostate, I would say that if there is any burning sensation during urination, difficulty in voiding, reduced flow, severe constipation he needs to have per rectal examination by your local doctor to rule out prostate enlargement. In that case you may need ultrasound examination and serum PSA level.For any further questions, please write back.Regards,Dr. Kaushik