Herniated Discs: When to Seek Further Medical Help

Herniated disc

I am only 18 years old, and due to long-term heavy lifting combined with being overweight, I have developed a herniated disc that is compressing my nerves.
The pain became unbearable, which is why I finally went to see a doctor.
Initially, I only had lower back pain, but then I started experiencing some pain in the back of my right calf.
Recently, the pain has become constant; it hurts whether I am walking, standing, or lying down, and I even feel numbness.
At night, the pain wakes me up, and I am hesitant to take too many painkillers.
I have been undergoing physical therapy for a week, but there hasn't been much improvement.
Should I make another appointment to see a doctor? It seems like my condition has worsened, and the muscle relaxants and pain medications prescribed by the doctor don't seem to be helping much.

Mei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/01

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation therapy often requires a period of treatment before results are seen.
Currently, after only one week of treatment, it may not necessarily yield effective results.
It is important to continue with rehabilitation and medication, as well as to use supportive devices and maintain proper posture.
If there is still no improvement or if the condition worsens, it is advisable to discuss the progress of the condition with a physician to determine if further examination or surgical intervention is necessary.

Reply Date: 2019/06/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort due to a herniated disc, which can be quite debilitating, especially at your young age. Given your symptoms—persistent pain in your lower back, radiating pain down your right calf, and numbness—it's crucial to take these signs seriously.
Herniated discs occur when the soft material inside the disc bulges out and presses on nearby nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the areas served by the affected nerves. The fact that your pain has escalated to the point where it disrupts your sleep and affects your daily activities is concerning.
You mentioned that you have been undergoing physical therapy for a week without significant improvement. While physical therapy can be beneficial for many individuals with herniated discs, it may not be sufficient in all cases, especially if the disc is significantly compressing a nerve. The presence of numbness and severe pain suggests that the nerve may be under considerable pressure, which could lead to further complications if not addressed promptly.

In your situation, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Here are some steps you might consider:
1. Consult a Specialist: If you haven't already, consider seeing a spine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on spinal issues. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of your condition.

2. Imaging Studies: If you haven't had an MRI yet, it may be necessary to obtain one. An MRI can provide detailed images of the spine and help determine the extent of the herniation and its impact on surrounding nerves.

3. Pain Management: Discuss your pain management options with your doctor. If over-the-counter medications and muscle relaxants are not effective, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications or suggest alternative pain management strategies.

4. Consider Other Treatments: Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may recommend other treatments such as corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain, or in some cases, surgery may be considered if conservative treatments fail.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in pain levels, mobility, or new symptoms like weakness in your legs. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

6. Avoid Heavy Lifting: Until you receive further evaluation and treatment, it’s important to avoid activities that could exacerbate your condition, such as lifting heavy objects.

In summary, given the worsening of your symptoms and the impact on your daily life, it is essential to seek further medical help. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and prevent long-term complications. Don't hesitate to advocate for yourself and ensure that you receive the appropriate care for your condition.

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