Lower Back Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Q: Lower Back Pain: Causes and Concerns for Your Health

Hello： Your symptoms are likely due to muscle or fascia soreness caused by overuse or poor posture. <br>However, your ultrasound examination shows issues with the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys, which may also cause discomfort in the abdomen or lower back. <br>I cannot provide y

Lumbar issues?

I have been experiencing soreness in certain areas over the past few months, but it hasn't lasted long.
For instance, I feel discomfort just above my knee on my thigh and in the front of my calf.
My ultrasound bone density is -1.00.
This afternoon, I might have been sitting in an awkward position, and around 5 PM, before going for a walk with my mother, I felt a sensation in my lower back (not a hard lump), just a feeling of something being there.
On the way back, I felt a cool sensation, and bending down to the left side of my lower back caused some pain, although it wasn't severe.
Eventually, the pain subsided.
Additionally, my abdominal ultrasound showed multiple gallbladder polyps, the largest being 0.52 cm, moderate fatty liver, a 1.50 cm cyst on my left kidney, and a suspected kidney stone measuring 0.56 cm.
I also feel quite uncomfortable when sitting in a chair.
What could this situation be? Thank you for your response, doctor.

Li Zimin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/22

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics

Hello: Your symptoms are likely due to muscle or fascia soreness caused by overuse or poor posture.
However, your ultrasound examination shows issues with the liver, gallbladder, and kidneys, which may also cause discomfort in the abdomen or lower back.
I cannot provide you with a definitive answer, so please make sure to consult a relevant specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Changhua Hospital Orthopedics Dr.
Li Wen-Hong.

Reply Date: 2022/02/22

More Info

Lower back pain is a common issue that many people experience at some point in their lives. Understanding the causes and concerns related to lower back pain is essential for effective management and treatment. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing discomfort in various areas, including your lower back, thighs, and calves, along with some concerning ultrasound findings related to your gallbladder and kidneys.

Causes of Lower Back Pain
1. Muscle Strain: One of the most common causes of lower back pain is muscle strain. This can occur due to improper posture, heavy lifting, or sudden movements. Given that you mentioned discomfort after sitting improperly, this could be a contributing factor.

2. Disc Issues: The intervertebral discs can degenerate or herniate, leading to pain that may radiate to other areas, such as the legs. If there is any compression of the nerves due to disc issues, it can cause pain, tingling, or weakness in the legs.

3. Skeletal Issues: Conditions such as osteoarthritis or scoliosis can lead to chronic lower back pain. Your bone density reading of -1.00 suggests that you may have some degree of osteopenia, which can increase the risk of fractures and pain.

4. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the lower back can be referred from other areas, such as the abdomen or kidneys. Your ultrasound findings of gallbladder polyps and potential kidney stones could be contributing to your discomfort. Gallbladder issues can sometimes cause referred pain to the back, while kidney stones can lead to severe pain that radiates to the lower back.

5. Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary behavior, obesity, and lack of physical activity can contribute to lower back pain. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are crucial for spinal health.

Concerns for Your Health
Given your ultrasound findings, there are several health concerns to consider:
- Gallbladder Polyps: While most gallbladder polyps are benign, monitoring their size and any associated symptoms is essential. If they grow or cause discomfort, further evaluation may be necessary.

- Fatty Liver Disease: Moderate fatty liver can lead to complications if not managed. Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can help improve liver health.

- Kidney Stones: The presence of kidney stones can cause significant pain and may require medical intervention if they obstruct the urinary tract. Staying hydrated and consulting with a healthcare provider about management options is advisable.

Recommendations
1. Posture and Ergonomics: Pay attention to your sitting posture. Use ergonomic chairs and take breaks to stand and stretch if you sit for long periods.

2. Physical Activity: Engage in low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, to strengthen your back and core muscles. Stretching exercises can also help alleviate tension.

3. Pain Management: If you experience acute pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. However, consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

4. Medical Evaluation: Given your ultrasound findings and ongoing discomfort, it would be wise to follow up with a healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms in the context of your ultrasound results and recommend appropriate treatment or further investigation.

5. Stress Management: Since stress can exacerbate pain, consider incorporating relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises into your routine.

In conclusion, lower back pain can stem from various causes, and understanding these can help in managing your symptoms effectively. Given your specific health concerns, a comprehensive approach involving lifestyle changes, medical evaluation, and possibly physical therapy may be beneficial. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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