Left Back Pain Near the Spine: Causes and When to Seek Help - Family Medicine

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Hello, and thank you for your question regarding the left back pain near your spine. It’s understandable to feel concerned, especially given your family history and the symptoms you’ve described. Let’s break down the potential causes of your pain and discuss when it might be appropriate to seek medical help.


Possible Causes of Left Back Pain Near the Spine
1. Muscle Strain or Sprain: Given that you mentioned experiencing pain after massaging a muscle, it’s possible that you may have strained a muscle in your back. This can happen due to poor posture, lifting heavy objects, or even prolonged sitting, especially under stress.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can lead to nerve compression, which may cause localized pain that can radiate to other areas. This could explain the pain when pressing on your spine.

3. Myofascial Pain Syndrome: This condition involves trigger points in the muscles that can cause referred pain. If you’ve been under stress, muscle tension can build up, leading to pain in specific areas of your back.

4. Postural Issues: Poor posture, especially during long hours of work, can lead to muscle imbalances and pain. If you’re sitting for extended periods without proper support, this could contribute to your discomfort.

5. Psychosomatic Factors: Stress and anxiety can manifest physically, leading to muscle tension and pain. Your mention of feeling fatigued and “spaced out” could be related to stress and its physical effects on your body.

6. Underlying Medical Conditions: While less common, certain conditions such as infections, tumors, or other systemic issues could present as back pain. Given your family history of cancer, it’s understandable to be vigilant about any persistent pain.


When to Seek Medical Help
Given that your symptoms have persisted for nearly two years, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Here are some indicators that you should seek medical attention:
- Persistent Pain: If the pain does not improve with rest, over-the-counter pain relief, or home remedies.

- Neurological Symptoms: If you experience numbness, tingling, weakness in your legs, or changes in bowel or bladder function.

- Severe Pain: If the pain becomes debilitating or interferes with your daily activities.

- Associated Symptoms: If you experience unexplained weight loss, fever, or other systemic symptoms.


Which Specialist to See
For your symptoms, starting with a primary care physician would be a good option. They can perform a physical examination, take a detailed history, and may refer you to a specialist if necessary. Depending on their findings, you might be referred to:
- Orthopedic Specialist: For musculoskeletal issues.

- Neurologist: If nerve involvement is suspected.

- Physical Therapist: For rehabilitation and strengthening exercises.

- Rheumatologist: If an autoimmune condition is suspected.


Conclusion
In summary, while there are several potential causes for your left back pain, it’s crucial to seek medical advice, especially given the duration and your family history. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. Remember to keep track of your symptoms, including any changes, as this information will be valuable for your healthcare provider. Take care, and I hope you find relief soon!