Back Pain: Bone Spurs, Scoliosis, and Pregnancy Concerns

Lower back pain, bone spurs, scoliosis?

Hello, I am 30 years old.
I have experienced pain when bending over for over ten years.
Recently, I have been feeling soreness in my right hip, knee, and ankle joints, and I am concerned that my back issues may be worsening.
I recently had my first spinal X-ray, and the doctor mentioned that I have small bone spurs and mild scoliosis, but these do not affect my back pain.
The doctor only prescribed muscle relaxants.
If it is indeed just muscle tightness and not caused by bone spurs or other issues, why have I been in pain for over a decade? The doctor advised against bending exercises; why is that? Wouldn't regular bending exercises help alleviate muscle tightness in the back? Can adults with scoliosis self-correct their posture, or will it worsen? I am only 30 years old and have already discovered bone spurs; is it likely that they will cause more pain as I age? Can I engage in bending movements during exercise (I want to learn yoga), as well as running and hiking? I am also preparing for pregnancy; will muscle relaxants or pain relief ointments affect the fetus? Will these symptoms impact natural childbirth? If I become pregnant, how can I take care of myself to avoid putting too much pressure on my spine while ensuring a better delivery?

Miss Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/30

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, occur due to the formation of excess bone at the edges of bones as a result of aging.
If these bone spurs do not compress nerves or irritate surrounding tissues, they typically do not cause any symptoms.
Therefore, some elderly individuals may have bone spurs in their spine without experiencing any pain during health check-ups, which is not a concern.
Pain when bending forward may be due to tendon or muscle inflammation, and it could also be related to sciatica.
If scoliosis has already become fixed, exercise will not improve it, unless the curvature is significant enough to worsen during pregnancy.
It is advisable to avoid medication during the first trimester to prevent any impact on the fetus.
It is recommended to perform abdominal exercises or sit-ups, as this may help improve the condition.

Reply Date: 2004/09/30

More Info

Back pain can be a complex issue, especially when considering factors such as bone spurs, scoliosis, and pregnancy. Your concerns are valid, and it’s essential to understand the underlying causes of your pain and how they may be affected by pregnancy.

Firstly, the presence of bone spurs (osteophytes) and mild scoliosis can contribute to discomfort in the back. Bone spurs are bony projections that develop along the edges of bones, often due to osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease. While your doctor indicated that these findings do not directly cause your back pain, they can still be associated with muscle tightness and discomfort. Scoliosis, or the lateral curvature of the spine, can also lead to muscle imbalances and strain, which may explain the chronic pain you’ve experienced for over a decade.

The recommendation against bending exercises likely stems from the concern that such movements could exacerbate your existing conditions. While it may seem counterintuitive, bending can place additional strain on the lumbar spine and surrounding muscles, particularly if done improperly or excessively. Instead, focusing on strengthening and stabilizing exercises, as well as flexibility training, may be more beneficial. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate muscle tightness without putting undue stress on your spine.

Regarding your question about self-correcting scoliosis through posture, it’s important to note that while improving posture can help alleviate some discomfort, it may not completely reverse the curvature. In adults, scoliosis can be progressive, and without proper intervention, it may worsen over time. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor any changes in your condition.

As for your concerns about aging and the potential for increased pain due to bone spurs, it is true that as we age, the likelihood of developing more significant degenerative changes in the spine increases. This can lead to conditions such as spinal stenosis, which may cause nerve compression and further pain. Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, can be crucial in managing these risks.

When it comes to pregnancy, it’s essential to approach your symptoms with care. Muscle relaxants and topical pain relief medications can have varying effects on pregnancy, and it’s crucial to consult with your obstetrician before using any medication. Some muscle relaxants may not be recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus.
To manage your back pain during pregnancy, consider the following strategies:
1. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help you learn safe exercises to strengthen your back and core muscles, which can alleviate pressure on your spine.

2. Posture Awareness: Maintaining good posture is vital during pregnancy. Use supportive chairs and pillows to help maintain spinal alignment.

3. Gentle Exercise: Activities such as swimming or prenatal yoga can be beneficial. These exercises can help improve flexibility and strength without putting excessive strain on your back.

4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected areas can provide temporary relief from pain.

5. Supportive Gear: Consider using a maternity support belt to help distribute weight more evenly and reduce strain on your back.

6. Regular Check-ups: Keep in close contact with your healthcare provider throughout your pregnancy to monitor your back pain and overall health.

In summary, while your back pain may be influenced by bone spurs and scoliosis, it’s essential to adopt a comprehensive approach to management, especially during pregnancy. Focus on safe exercises, posture correction, and regular consultations with healthcare professionals to ensure both your well-being and that of your baby.

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