Left Mid-Back Pain and Its Impact on Arm Mobility

Q: Left Mid-Back Pain and Its Impact on Arm Mobility

Hello： Your mother's pain can first be evaluated by a rehabilitation specialist. <br>If it is simply pain caused by muscle fiber inflammation, physical therapy in rehabilitation can help improve her condition. <br>However, we cannot rule out other visceral or skeletal issues that

Pain in the middle to lower left back, causing difficulty in raising the left arm?

My mother is 72 years old and has been experiencing pain on the left side of her mid to upper back, near the outer side, for the past three months.
This back pain has affected her left arm's mobility, allowing her to raise it only to about 90 degrees, while her right arm can be raised normally to her ear.
During this period, she has tried heat therapy, massage, and pain relief patches, but there has been no improvement, and the duration of the pain has been prolonged.
What condition could this be? Which specialist should we take her to see? Thank you.

Ms. Chen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/22

Dr. Wu Zongying reply Family Medicine

Hello: Your mother's pain can first be evaluated by a rehabilitation specialist.
If it is simply pain caused by muscle fiber inflammation, physical therapy in rehabilitation can help improve her condition.
However, we cannot rule out other visceral or skeletal issues that may be causing the pain, and further examination is necessary for a definitive diagnosis.
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with either the rehabilitation department or orthopedics for radiological examinations to further assess the possible causes.
Thank you, and wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/10/22

More Info

Understanding left mid-back pain, especially in a 72-year-old individual, requires a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. Given that your mother has been experiencing pain for three months, which has significantly impacted her arm mobility, it is essential to consider several potential causes and the appropriate steps for management.

Possible Causes of Left Mid-Back Pain
1. Musculoskeletal Issues: The most common cause of mid-back pain is related to musculoskeletal problems, such as muscle strain, ligament sprain, or even a herniated disc. In older adults, degenerative changes in the spine, such as osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease, can also contribute to pain and limited mobility.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can lead to nerve compression, which may cause pain radiating to the arm and limit its range of motion. If a nerve root is affected, it can lead to weakness or numbness in the arm.

3. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the back can be referred from other areas, such as the heart or lungs. Given your mother’s age, it is crucial to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

4. Postural Issues: Poor posture, especially if your mother has been sedentary or has developed a habit of slouching, can lead to muscle imbalances and pain in the mid-back.

Recommended Actions
1. Consult a Specialist: Given the duration and severity of the symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A visit to a physiatrist (rehabilitation physician) or an orthopedic specialist would be appropriate. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies (like X-rays or MRI) to determine the underlying cause of the pain.

2. Physical Therapy: If musculoskeletal issues are confirmed, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance overall mobility. They can also teach proper body mechanics to prevent further injury.

3. Pain Management: Since your mother has already tried heat therapy and topical analgesics without significant improvement, a healthcare provider may consider other pain management strategies. This could include oral medications (like NSAIDs) or even injections if appropriate.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage your mother to engage in gentle exercises, such as walking or swimming, which can help maintain mobility without putting excessive strain on her back. Additionally, ensuring she maintains good posture while sitting and standing can help alleviate some discomfort.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close watch on her symptoms. If she experiences any new symptoms, such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs, or if the pain worsens, seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion
In summary, your mother’s left mid-back pain and its impact on her arm mobility could stem from various causes, primarily musculoskeletal issues or nerve compression. It is crucial to consult a specialist to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can significantly improve her quality of life and help restore her mobility. Encourage her to remain active within her limits and to follow up with healthcare providers as needed.

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