I have swollen lymph nodes in my axilla and occasionally at my lower back next to my spine. I saw a doctor about a year ago for the ones on the back because they were tender when I would lean on a chair. He said he thought they were reactive nodes because my hips hurt frequently. He said if they persisted despite the hip pain, to consider other causes such as Lymphoma. My mammogram is normal, but axillary nodes are so tender it is sensitive to put on deodorant. I am a nurse, so I am not one to over-react to symptoms, but at what point should I be concerned about swollen tender axillary lymph nodes/