What Causes Intermittent Lower Back Pain?

Posted on Thu, 17 Nov 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 Answered on

Wed, 7 Dec 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I have had lower back pain now on and off for 15 years. I have been to my doctors in many occasions who just prescribe pain killers which do very little for the pain. Over the years the pain is getting worse. Over the last few week I have been suffering with a bad neck and shoulders which was initially put down to a pinched nerve. This subsided but has now come back worse than ever. My doctor is now putting it down to wry neck even though the pain doesn't directly radiate from the neck but lower down. I'm pretty sure this is something connected to the problems I'm having with the lumbar part of my back but my doctors are being very dismissive. I have had no investigation whatsoever into my lower back problems despite it carrying on for 15 years. Nothing seems to have caused any of the issues, no accidents, trauma or general knocks. It has just gradually gotten worse over time to the point now where I can be in tears due to the pain.

I have gone from a very active and healthy lady in my 20s to now 36 and feel like a prisoner in my own body due to the pain.

Is there any reason why my doctor is not referring me to a spinal/back doctor?

Is it normal to be just on pain killers for so long without an investigation?

What are the possibilities causing this pain?

Many Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (53 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Clinical and imaging evaluation is necessary.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

One condition I could mention that may cause such symptoms is spondylolysthesis or slipped vertebrae.

Of course there is need for clinical evaluation by a spine Specialist/ Neurologist and imaging studies such dynamic x-rays, MRI of the spinal column in order to achieve a correct diagnosis of your condition.

Other spinal conditions that may be related to pain are herniated disc disease, degerative spine etc.

Painkillers are one of the possible treatment ways about back pain, but a correct diagnosis is necessary first.

Neck issues may be related to low back problems due to bad posture for example, but may be a separate degerative condition too.

Discuss with your Doctor about getting evaluated further about your concerns.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad