Upper Abdominal Pain and Back Discomfort: A Guide for Patients

Occasional sharp pain in the upper abdomen, accompanied by pain on both sides of the back whenever there is abdominal pain?

Hello Dr.
Liao,
I am a 25-year-old female, 160 cm tall, and weighing 80 kg.
I have been experiencing these symptoms for at least six months to a year.
Sometimes, whether I am standing, walking, sitting, or even getting up from lying down, I feel a nerve compression-type pain on both sides of my back.
I initially thought it was a pulled muscle.
I have frequently visited traditional Chinese medicine practitioners for treatment and massage, but there has been no improvement.
Occasionally, I also experience pain in the upper abdomen (I believe it is near the stomach and pancreas, but I am not certain of the exact location).
Whenever the pain occurs, it feels very dull and uncomfortable, and my back also hurts, making it impossible for me to exert myself.
Even slight movements or bending over cause significant pain.
During this period, I have tried heat therapy, massage, pain relief patches, and essential oil treatments, but since there has been no improvement and the symptoms are becoming more frequent, I would like to ask you, Dr.
Liao, what condition my symptoms might indicate? Which department should I visit at a major hospital? Thank you!

Miss You, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/12

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, the symptoms mentioned are quite nonspecific.
If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to further investigate the underlying causes.
You may first consult your family physician for an initial assessment, and then, depending on the situation, they can refer you to the appropriate subspecialty to determine whether it is due to a single issue or multiple causes, which would provide a clearer direction for treatment.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your well-being.

Reply Date: 2022/12/12

More Info

Upper abdominal pain and back discomfort can be quite complex, especially when they persist for an extended period, as you have described. Given your symptoms, it is essential to consider a variety of potential causes and appropriate next steps for diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Pain Characteristics: You mentioned experiencing a nerve compression-like pain in your back, along with upper abdominal discomfort. This type of pain can often be associated with musculoskeletal issues, such as muscle strains or spinal problems, but it can also indicate underlying organ-related issues.

2. Duration and Frequency: Since your symptoms have persisted for six months to a year, it is crucial to investigate further. Chronic pain can sometimes lead to a cycle of discomfort and anxiety, which can exacerbate the perception of pain.

3. Location of Pain: The location of your abdominal pain near the stomach and pancreas could suggest issues related to these organs, such as gastritis, pancreatitis, or even gallbladder problems. However, the connection between your abdominal pain and back pain is also significant, as many abdominal conditions can refer pain to the back.

Potential Causes
- Musculoskeletal Issues: Given your age and the nature of your pain, musculoskeletal problems such as a herniated disc, muscle strain, or spinal stenosis could be contributing factors. These conditions can lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain radiating to the back and abdomen.

- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like gastritis, peptic ulcers, or pancreatitis can cause upper abdominal pain. If there is inflammation or irritation in these areas, it can lead to referred pain in the back.

- Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress can amplify the perception of pain. Chronic pain can lead to a cycle of anxiety, which can further exacerbate physical symptoms.

Recommended Next Steps
1. Consult a Specialist: Given the complexity of your symptoms, it would be advisable to see a gastroenterologist for your abdominal pain and a spine specialist or orthopedic doctor for your back pain. They can perform a thorough evaluation and recommend appropriate imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan, to identify any structural issues.

2. Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests, ultrasound, or endoscopy may be necessary to evaluate your gastrointestinal health. Imaging studies can help assess the condition of your spine and any potential nerve compression.

3. Physical Therapy: If musculoskeletal issues are confirmed, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen your back and improve flexibility, which may alleviate some of your discomfort.

4. Pain Management: If your pain is severe, discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider is essential. This could include medications, injections, or alternative therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care.

5. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing stress management techniques can also be beneficial. Gentle exercises like yoga or swimming can help improve your overall physical condition without putting too much strain on your body.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms warrant a comprehensive evaluation to determine the underlying causes. By consulting with the appropriate specialists and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests, you can gain a clearer understanding of your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan. Remember, chronic pain is multifaceted, and addressing both the physical and psychological aspects is crucial for effective management. Don't hesitate to seek help and advocate for your health; you deserve to feel better.

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