What causes pain in the lower back radiating to the spine?
Patient: This morning I awoke with pain in my lower back (about level with my belly button). It felt like it was coming from my spine at first, but after adjusting positions in order to relieve the pressure, I realized that the pain was coming from a few inches to the left of my spine and I could not find a position to relieve the pain even slightly. After an hour the pain was unbearable and I had a bowel movement. During a quick shower the pain shifted to the my abdomen, to the left and below my belly button and the pain increased. My stomach muscles were tight making another bowel movement impossible though pushing made the pain tolerable for a moment. I then began to pour sweat even though I felt cold. Eventually I threw up a lot of water, though it appeared a bit grayish. Then, while laying on the bathroom floor, the pain gradually subsided over the next 5 to 10 minutes until all the symptoms were gone. A few hours later I feel a light pain in my back and I m worried that the episode might repeat before I have a chance to see a doctor. If I had normal insurance I would have gone to the ER, but I have only a VA medical plan. I apologize for the length of this, I m trying to provide all information up front. I m hoping you can tell me the cause of the pain and what to do to prevent it from reoccurring. Doctor: Hello, I have studied your case with diligence.As per your symptom and history there is possibility of acute muscle spasm in lower back and hamstring due to excessive work strainFor these symptoms muscle relaxant with analgesic and neurotropic medication can be started consulting your treating doctor.Till time take rest and continue analgesic available over the counter take rest, and hot fomentation. Physiotherapy like ultrasound and interferential therapy will give quick relief.You may need to do MRI spine if symptoms persist.I will advise to check your vit B12 and vit D3 level.Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries. Wishing you good health.