Managing Right-Sided Back Pain After Spine Surgery: Seeking Solutions

Q: Managing Right-Sided Back Pain After Spine Surgery: Seeking Solutions

Hello： It seems that the situation is not straightforward, but further investigation is necessary to understand your aunt's condition. <br>Could she come to my clinic for a detailed examination? I will then provide you with recommendations. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Li Wei-Chiang, R

Sharp pain in the right side of the lower back?

My mother is 51 years old and previously underwent surgery for a slipped disc in her lumbar spine, where screws were used to stabilize the vertebrae.
It has been over five years since the surgery, and she has not experienced any significant issues until recently.
However, for the past two days, she has been experiencing intermittent severe pain on the right side of her lower back, with episodes of intense pain occurring approximately every 30 minutes, followed by periods of relief.

I took her to the hospital to see a doctor.
Due to her surgical history, she was unable to undergo a CT scan, so only X-rays and blood and urine tests were performed.
All results came back normal.
She was given pain relief injections, but they did not alleviate her pain.
We are unsure of what to do next, as the doctors could not determine the cause of her pain.
They suggested applying heat and using topical analgesics, but these measures have not been effective.
The doctors have recommended that she consult the surgeon who performed her previous operation.
However, I feel like they are shifting responsibility.
I am concerned that if that surgeon is no longer available, we would have no one to turn to for help.

I am reaching out for advice on what steps we should take next.
My mother is in constant pain, the pain relief injections are ineffective, and we still do not know the underlying cause.
Please provide guidance on what we should do next, as I am feeling quite anxious about the situation.
Thank you!

KIDD, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/23

Dr. Li Weiqiang reply Rehabilitation

Hello: It seems that the situation is not straightforward, but further investigation is necessary to understand your aunt's condition.
Could she come to my clinic for a detailed examination? I will then provide you with recommendations.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li Wei-Chiang, Rehabilitation Medicine.

Reply Date: 2006/04/23

More Info

Managing right-sided back pain after spine surgery can be a complex issue, especially when previous surgical interventions have been made. Your mother’s situation, where she has experienced intermittent severe pain for the past two days, is concerning and warrants a thorough evaluation. Here are some potential considerations and steps you can take to address her condition.

Understanding the Pain
1. Nature of Pain: The description of the pain as "intermittent" and "severe" suggests that it may not be a straightforward case of post-surgical pain. It could be related to nerve irritation, muscle spasms, or even issues with the hardware (screws or rods) used during the surgery.
2. Possible Causes: After spine surgery, patients can experience various complications, including:
- Scar Tissue Formation: This can lead to nerve compression or irritation.

- Hardware Issues: Sometimes, screws or rods can shift or cause irritation to surrounding tissues.

- Muscle Strain: The muscles around the spine may become strained due to altered mechanics post-surgery.

- Recurrent Disc Issues: Although less common, it is possible for adjacent discs to develop problems after surgery.

Next Steps for Management
1. Follow-Up with the Surgeon: Since your mother has a history of spine surgery, it is crucial to follow up with the surgeon who performed the operation. They will have the most insight into her specific case and can assess whether the pain is related to the previous surgery or if there is a new issue.

2. Imaging Studies: If the surgeon is unavailable or if there are concerns about the previous surgery, consider requesting further imaging studies. While CT scans may not be an option, MRI scans can provide detailed images of soft tissues, including discs, nerves, and muscles, which can help identify any new issues.

3. Pain Management: Since pain medications and injections have not provided relief, it may be beneficial to explore other pain management strategies. This could include:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve flexibility, which may alleviate pain.

- Alternative Therapies: Techniques such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy may provide relief for some patients.

- Medication Review: Consult with a pain management specialist to explore other medication options, including nerve pain medications or muscle relaxants.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Encourage your mother to engage in gentle activities that do not exacerbate her pain. Regular low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming, can help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness.

5. Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel that the current medical team is not addressing your mother's pain adequately, it may be worthwhile to seek a second opinion from another spine specialist or pain management clinic.

Conclusion
Navigating post-surgical pain can be frustrating, especially when the cause is unclear. It is essential to maintain open communication with healthcare providers and advocate for your mother's needs. By following up with her surgeon, considering further imaging, and exploring various pain management options, you can work towards finding a solution that alleviates her discomfort. Remember, persistent pain should never be ignored, and seeking help is a crucial step in managing her condition effectively.

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