HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Lower Back Pain - 19-year-old

Support Forums
>
Chronic Pain
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
1 2
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 2/16/2015 10:26 PM (GMT 0)
Hi all, thank you all so much for responding. Words cannot describe how thankful I am to have stumbled upon this website, and to met all of you!

skeye: I'm sorry to hear about your shoulders, but unfortunately, I know exactly where you are coming from. I was a high ranked shot put and discus thrower in high school, and received numerous recruitment offers. I hurt my shoulder about two years ago, and suffered what I believe to be a labrum tear. After an inconclusive MRI and PT that did not help, I gave up and learned to deal with the pain. Currently, I am not in tremendous pain, only occasionally. Part of the reason I did not seek help for my back immediately was because of my shoulder injury, and didn't want to add my back into the mix! But you are absolutely correct about athletes being taught to push through the pain. Box jumps are now my least favorite thing ever! I agree, even before my injury, I think that they are rather unsafe to most of the population! I will definitely talk to my doctor about ordering an MRI, and I am sure that PT is in my future. I am lucky to know a very good place with distinguished staff. Thank you, and happy early birthday!!

AnnaBanana: Hi, thank you for responding. I will for sure look up that exercise, I am very happy that it has done wonders for you. I actually have already been to PT for other injuries (what can I say, I'm accident prone) and I very much like and trust them. I will for sure talk to my doctor about getting an MRI. Thanks again.

SisterPam: It was a total red flag for me as well. As soon as I got home, I told my mom what happened at the appointment, and I was like, "time to find a new doctor." I guess that I am spoiled when it comes to doctors in the past (My GP is the most wonderful lady ever!), and was totally turned off by my appointment. I can relate to him only being in it for the money. I was floored when he gave me the options, and immediately asked for my decision, as I would have liked to consult with my parents. It didn't help that the office seemed to be a bit 'unprofessional' as well (After x-rays I sat in a 'private waiting room that wasn't so private, in only a gown and paper shorts, no undergarments, until a nurse could bring me through the entire practice to my consultation room! I though that was a bit odd, but maybe because I don't have any other previous experiences?) I left the appointment pretty edit off (sorry, excuse my French). Thanks again!

Thanks again for all the responses, I appreciate it so much, I cannot even describe it. I will update how my other appointment goes.

Megan

Megan please note I have edited a word in your post. Healing Well has a few rules in place. One of the rules is on language. Since we never know the ages of the our readers he likes to keep it clean. Thanks.

Post Edited By Moderator (straydog) : 2/18/2015 6:55:37 PM (GMT-7)

Posted 2/17/2015 10:07 AM (GMT 0)
Your absolutely right in thinking that was unprofessional and I would have to say had it been me parading through the halls in paper I would have paraded right back to my clothes and went home! Anytime you feel something is not quite right it's usually not.

An example if you will,I have a hmo Medicare advantage plan and I was given a new PCP and the first appointment I didn't like the front office ppl who didn't appear in the least professionals,dirty non matching uniforms and tennis shoes,one had on flip flops and they never got out of the chairs they were in just rolled around behind the open plan desk? Hair down and lots of perfumes on,eating and drinking at the desk even though it was not lunch or close. Handed me my chart said give it to the Dr when you go back? Called to desk and told to go to room such,not taken back and no one came in to do vitals or anything until the Dr came I saw no one. Remember this is the first time I had been there. He asked a few questions about my meds and then wrote a referral for my PM Drs which I have to have if ever my PCP changes even though I have been a patient of the PM Drs for 5 years then said I could pick up my scripts at the desk on the way out. All of 5 minutes there. Get the scripts and he had changed every med from my inhalers to my b/p meds but I figured that hey the change might be good since I was actually on many old school meds. Not,pharmacy copays on old meds was $0 copays on new tier 6 meds he had written were $6.85 each and one wasn't covered at all and was $59. I didn't get any of them and went home and called Humana rep and changed primary Drs.

3 months later and there was a breaking news story about a Dr who was accused of improper sexual misconduct against 5 female patients. Yes it was him!! That led to a yearlong investigation and about 20 more patients coming forward and he surrendered his license in a deal to avoid prosecution and jail time. Which I thought was ludicrous and he should of been prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

He was however open for civil litigation and ultimately sued and without license and malpractice lost his rear in the suit.

So if something doesn't feel right it's a signal to get out. There are fair drs,good drs and awesome drs but in their midst stands some that are hideously negligent.
Posted 2/18/2015 3:06 PM (GMT 0)
nvrthesame98: Okay, I am glad to hear that I was not overreacting. I am very sorry to hear about your experience at the doctor's office. I left that office, and went elsewhere.

Update: So I had another visit with another doctor this morning, and I like him more than the other guy, but still not really loving him. I think that I will stick it out with him. I had a very short exam, then he brought me to his office to go over X-rays. He too confirmed that I had spondylolisthesis as a result of spondylosis. I prescribed me four weeks of intense physical therapy, and wants to see my back in one month. I still feel like I didn't receive many answers, and I felt like he did not care how I injured myself. When he showed me the X-ray, he said the break likely happened during adolescences and now I am feeling pain. I asked him if my accident could have caused it, and he said likely. It would of been nice for him to have known my case. I'm not sure if I am being unreasonable or not? Thoughts? He kinda scared me because he mentioned surgery if all else fails (cross your fingers that PT works). He also said that if I don't get better, then I may want to reconsider my major and future career path. Also, he didn't close his door when he was going over my medical history and diagnosis.. is it just me or does that violate some ethical codes? I really don't have anything I mind people hearing, but I thought it was a privacy thing. I guess it's just me getting myself in trouble!! I guess this appointment was a bit of a reality check.

Sorry if this post was entirely me complaining. I just want the answers and to feel better (don't we all!!!).

Few questions:
Has anyone benefited from chiropractors?
My doctor did not even mention an MRI, is it something that I should push for?

Thanks again, and have a great day!

Megan
Posted 2/18/2015 9:50 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Megan, sorry your appt didn't go as well as you hoped. I think these orthopedics see this so often they act like it is no big deal, but to you it is a huge deal! The third doctor my son saw was the one we liked best, and he was an orthopedic spine specialist. So don't stop just because you have seen two doctors, you want a good one you feel comfortable with!

Did the doctor mention a brace? It might help with the pain.

Do not go near a chiropractor, a good one wouldn't touch you with your condition, but a bad one could do damage. I think they haven't mentioned the MRI because your injury is apparent on the X-rays. My son's injury was a grade 1 and not visible on X-ray, but we still had to push for the MRI.

Keep us updated :)
Posted 2/18/2015 10:39 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Megan,
Well I was hoping that 2 times was a charm and that you had found yourself a decent doctor!
A couple of things if I may: Being the fact that you are a "new" patient with him, I still am seeing a "caution" sign there, he absolutely should have spent a lot more time with you - reviewing your medical history, going over the incidences that you had and how you believe you were injured, his physical exam, reviewing the xray's with you, making a clinical diagnosis or what they would call "ruling out" diagnosis's/his impression, discussing suggested therapy or other testing, and finally answering any and all questions that you had. The other issue is had is with the door open while he is with you, that is just a plain old no-no, the exam and information you share with him and he you is totally confidential and private not to be heard and seen by everyone passing by the door. I think the mention of "surgery" is quite hasty on his part and would scare the beegeebers out of anyone, he should have at least waited for the follow up appointment.
You said he didn't mention an MRI, I would probably do the PT to my ability and then when you see him in a month perhaps that could be addressed. You really don't know how you will respond to the PT either, so if things calm down for you and you feel like there is progress perhaps it won't be needed.
Now the comment about your future - this is where my hair is standing up on my arms (lol), what a #@$hole to make such a comment to you!!!!! OMG, he has no right whatsoever to make that kind of judgment on your future career - that is not his call and furthermore, there are other modalities that can be incorporated into your treatment plan! I would not consider a chiropractor for anything yet, wait and see what becomes of all this.
I will keep watching for your inputs and updates.
I pray for your well-being and for a pain free life! Hang in there.
Pam
Posted 2/19/2015 12:41 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, thanks for responding so quickly!

upbeat: I would like to see another doctor if this condition becomes more serious. My mom and I talked and she said that most of these doctor's aren't looking to build a relationship with their patients, as they do not see most of their patients on a regular basis. I will definitely look into finding another doctor I am more comfortable with if surgery and many more appointments become available. He did offer a brace as a suggestion if PT did not work well. Thank you for informing me about chiropractors, I have never been to one and it is good to know that they will not be helpful for me. I will wait to ask about an MRI until I go in for a follow up appointment next month. Thanks again.

SisterPam: I am glad that we are on the same page, I though I was being unreasonable for expecting more of an in-depth exam and debrief on my condition. At least the internet is able to inform me! I am also glad I am not the only one surprised by the lack of privacy - I have nothing to hide, but he recorded a recap on the appointment to be transcribed with the door wide open! I think that may violate HIPAA? Him mentioning surgery (a fusion to be exact) really freaked me out, at least it will help me be more diligent on my PT work. I was floored when he mentioned something about my future career, and I would rather have a fusion that change my major! I am certain nursing is something I want to do for the rest of my life. Isn't it his job to make me feel good enough to continue my life? I will not consult a chiropractor yet. Thanks again.

I have a PT appointment on Friday, and will update. Thanks all for responding, I appreciate it. Wishing you all a painless life.

Megan
Posted 2/22/2015 6:07 PM (GMT 0)
How was your PT appointment?
Posted 2/22/2015 9:16 PM (GMT 0)
Hi, sorry I have not had a chance to update earlier. My PT appointment went well, I really really like the place that I am going, along with the physical therapists. They did an ultrasound and ice and stim on my back which felt awesome, although were a bit awkward. I also did a variety of exercises including pelvic tilts and stretches to stretch out my hamstrings. They were very good in not pushing me too hard at the beginning, and very conscious of my pain level. I have been diligent about doing the exercises at home as well, but have not felt any improvements yet (obviously) On a side note, the physcial therapist things that I may have something wrong with my hip after not being able to do a stretch on a certain side - he said that we will address it at a later date.

My next appointment is Wednesday. Hope you all have a great week!

Megan
Posted 2/22/2015 9:43 PM (GMT 0)
So glad to hear you liked the physical therapist - I hope the exercises help!
Posted 2/23/2015 4:20 PM (GMT 0)
Hey there Hun,
Mine started when I was 18, it's frustrating and u feel helpless being so young as if ppl minimize your pain due to age. I suggest making a list of what makes it better/worse and being clear and concise with doctors. In the chance that they are condescending or minimizing be firm. I'm proud of you for reaching out its hard being so young and in pain ppl thing your supposed to be healthy but you can get through this!!!

I'm 10 years in now @28 and can tell you it gets better to deal.
Posted 3/6/2015 12:26 AM (GMT 0)
Hi all, hope you are all having a good week.
I just thought that I would check in and update a bit. So I have been going to physical two days a week for the past two weeks or so. I'm not sure if/when I should be feeling or noticing an improvement, but so far, I have not noticed any pain difference. Immediately after PT I feel better, probably a result of the massage and stim and ice, but day to day, no huge change. I know I definitely need to give it more time. I go back for a one month follow up with my orthopedist in about two weeks.

Also, I have a question regarding sciatica. I don't have a ton of pain in my legs, the back pain is far worse, but recently I have been having the feeling of goosebumps in only my legs. I was wondering if this could be sciatica, or is in most likely unrelated?

Thank you, and hope you all have a great upcoming weekend!
Posted 3/17/2015 5:24 PM (GMT 0)
bumping this.

I am just curious if the intermittent feeling of goosebumbs localized to my legs could be related to my back injury/ sciatic nerve. Also, recently my toes have started going numb when I ride the stationary bike at physical therapy. Could this also be related? Or is it unlikely? I go back to my ortho Monday for a follow up visit - I don't think that physical therapy is helping me :(

Thanks, and hope you all have a great week!

Megan
Posted 3/17/2015 7:49 PM (GMT 0)
I do not get the goose bumps from my lower back pain, but I do get the leg and foot numbness when I set on a bike or in a chair for to long. My left leg, down the outside if it is always numb and my small two has barely any feeling to it.

Is the goosebump feeling more like a tingling or sleeping? If so, then it could be related.
Posted 3/18/2015 5:35 PM (GMT 0)
@syXx, I'm not sure if they're exactly goosebumps, it's just the closest feeling to them. Randomly, even if it is not cold out, I will get the feeling of goosebumps only in my leg(s). I guess it is similar to tingling, but it's never around for awhile; as quick as it appears, it is gone for the time-being.

megan
Posted 3/19/2015 2:23 AM (GMT 0)
Hi there Megan,

I haven't chatted with you in awhile but have been keeping up with your posts. So PT is going well and the exercises at home as well but you don't think it is helping. I would just wait until you have your month follow up and bring up the fact that you don't feel you are improving in any way. It could be one of those things where you really won't feel or see any progress per say for a little longer maybe.

I hope you are feeling better, is your back under control with your meds?

The goose bump sensation, I can't really say that my nerve pain/feelings could be a goose bump type effect. It may be what you are feeling is interpreted as that, that it really is a sort of numbing/tingling effect. See if it continues as such and bring it up to your doc.

Hoping you have pain free days soon!

Hugs from Texas,

Pam
Posted 3/19/2015 7:41 AM (GMT 0)
It's not at all unusual for sciatica to appear with a lumbar issue and basically go hand in hand with one another. Generally stirring up trouble with sciatica pain comes from the treatment itself in your case the therapy can bring about inflammation and the inflammation can cause pressure to the sciatic nerve causing your symptoms. We refer to this as a flare and once the inflammation subsides the sciatic issues resolve for the time being.

If you are getting relief at therapy with massage,ice or heat these are things you can also do at home. If you are not taking any antinflam med such as Aleve,ibuprofen you might ask your Dr and therapist if you can use one for a few days or after therapy sessions.
Posted 3/19/2015 10:41 AM (GMT 0)
If they have to operate on your back I would definitely see a neurosurgeon. Just my advice.
Posted 3/23/2015 11:56 AM (GMT 0)
Hi guys, I have an appointment today so I will bring it up for sure.

@SisterPam - I'm actually not taking any pain meds other than the occasional NSAID, I do not want to become dependent on pain meds.

@proudmom2x: I will look into getting a neurosurgeons opinion is surgery becomes a possibility.
Posted 3/23/2015 12:35 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Megan,

Happy Monday to ya! Good luck with your appointment today and please do update us with the outcome.

I just assumed I guess that you were on meds for the pain, sorry - no punt intended. That's wonderful that an occasional NSAID is all you have to take, I wish I could survive on just that - oh' head down with envy! LOL

Hugs from Texas,

Pam
Posted 3/24/2015 12:22 AM (GMT 0)
@SisterPam: Happy Monday to you as well, I hope yours was better than mine :( Yes, I am very lucky that I can function on NSAIDS, although there are some days I wish I had something stronger. I'm so sorry that you are living with such pain. Don't worry, I was in no way offended or anything!!!

Had my appointment today, and boy and I frustrated. I'm not sure if I'm frustrated with my body, or my doctor... maybe a little of both. It was a follow-up appointment since he prescribed me physical therapy five weeks ago. I was looking forward to the appointment, hoping to get some answers and a new plan of action. Physical therapy is not working. After waiting to see him forever, he comes in to see me for MAYBE 2 minutes; no new x-rays, no physical exam, no questions, or mention of getting an MRI. He tells me I have two options: bracing or cortisone injections. He told me that at my age he is often apprehensive to give injections as they are only temporary and have limited usage. He told me that if I was his daughter then he would recommend a brace and a break from physical therapy for a period of time.

I've heard some mixed things on braces, they will not fix my condition, but will help to support it. It also could weaken my core which I just spent 5 weeks and $$$ on building in PT. Also a bit concerned because I think I also may be suffering from spinal stenosis, as leaning forward often relieves my pain, which will be restricted by the brace.

Anyways, sorry about this rant, I just have a lot to think about. Thanks, and hope you have a great week.

Megan
Posted 3/25/2015 12:27 AM (GMT 0)
Hi there Meganec,

So.............Sounds like you didn't get to get in too many words with the doc. Is this the Orthopedist? It's unfortunate that he didn't offer more to you, both in diagnosis and prognosis. The choice between the Cortisone and brace, are you to make a decision and then see him again or are you going to see someone else?

Are you still having the "goosebump" sensation in your leg? What did the doctor say about that?

I sure hope you get everything straightened out soon, sorry that you have to feel so bad in the interim.

Warm Hugs from Texas,

Pam
Posted 3/25/2015 12:35 AM (GMT 0)
Try to find a nuerosurgen, orthos are good for broken bones but when it comes to your spine you need an artist not a carpenter.Get a good pm doctor, if it comes to that. Dont jump on major surgery, try everything else 1st. Pt often made my issues worse as they usually go with a set regimen of excersises. Sometimes rest is best, then re-evaluate.

Post Edited (Cgunther79) : 3/24/2015 6:40:22 PM (GMT-6)

Posted 3/25/2015 1:30 AM (GMT 0)
Hey CGunther...................... I never heard that, I like the "need an artist rather than a carpenter"! That is great, will have to remember that saying.

Hugs from Texas,

Pam
Posted 3/27/2015 5:18 PM (GMT 0)
@SisterPam: Yes, the doctor that I am seeing right now is an orthopedist. I am supposed to make a decision and then get back to him, I have yet to make a decision yet. Although, I went to physical therapy the day after my appointment and my therapist said he has never heard of anyone using a brace except for people with scoliosis or after surgery. He gave me a number for a spine surgeon that he had a good relationship with. He suggests that I get another option. And truth be told, I did not mention that goosebump sensation although in retrospect I definitely should have. I also joined a Spondylolisthesis group on Facebook and both this website and the Facebook Page have been immensely helpful. Hope you have an awesome weekend!

@Cgunther79: I love that saying! And thank you! I am on the lookout of a highly rated neurosurgeon in my area! Thank you, and have a great weekend!

Meganec17
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
12