Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Lower Back Pain After Laminectomy?
Posted on
Tue, 28 Apr 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Mon, 27 Apr 2015
Answered on
Mon, 18 May 2015
Last reviewed on
Question : I have had trouble with lower back pain over the last 5 years, to include a laminectomy L4, L5, S1 to relieve pain and left leg atrophy. I was recently out of work for 5 weeks while getting an epidural in that region to relieve the symptoms. In addition to my back, I have developed aching in both ankles, both knees, left thigh, left wrist, and left shoulder. I went to my primary Dr to have blood work and everything that was tested came back normal. I know he tested me for RA and Lupus. I am currently masking my pain with 15mg of Meloxicam each day and still have a hard time working and getting around. My back pain went from being located in the center at my spine to being a ache located at my lower right side that is triggered by movement. What could be causing this? I have tried natural anti-inflammatory food like dried cherries and tart cherry juice along with my meds. Any information you can give me is greatly appreciated!
Brief Answer:
Arthritis
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
Unfortunately back pain after laminectomy will always come and go, but generally you will never be pain free. The lower extremities pain might be related to root compression at the laminectomy site, but pain in the left shoulder and wrist is not related to this. That is why your GP tested on RA and Lupus, which fortunately came back normal. At this point, since the pain gets exacerbated on movement, there must be an inflammation of the articulation (arthritis). This is supported also by the relief caused by Meloxicam. You should know that you are getting the minimum dosage. The good thing is that inflamed articulations tend to be self limiting and generally pass in a few weeks. You might need a simple Xray of you extremities to see the articulation.
Hope this helps. Wish you the best health
Arthritis
Detailed Answer:
Hello. I have been through your question and understand your concern.
Unfortunately back pain after laminectomy will always come and go, but generally you will never be pain free. The lower extremities pain might be related to root compression at the laminectomy site, but pain in the left shoulder and wrist is not related to this. That is why your GP tested on RA and Lupus, which fortunately came back normal. At this point, since the pain gets exacerbated on movement, there must be an inflammation of the articulation (arthritis). This is supported also by the relief caused by Meloxicam. You should know that you are getting the minimum dosage. The good thing is that inflamed articulations tend to be self limiting and generally pass in a few weeks. You might need a simple Xray of you extremities to see the articulation.
Hope this helps. Wish you the best health
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
