Helping Your Mother Overcome Severe Back Pain and Hunching

Q: Helping Your Mother Overcome Severe Back Pain and Hunching

Dear User： Your mother may be experiencing vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis, which can sometimes present as subtle fractures that are not visible on standard X-rays. <br>The principle of treating vertebral compression fractures is to start with conservative man

Inability to stand upright due to back pain?

My mother is only 67 years old, and for some unknown reason, she has developed a severe hunchback over the past two months and is almost unable to stand upright.
We previously took her to the hospital for an X-ray, which showed that her bones are still in decent condition, with only some degeneration and mild osteoporosis.
I have given her Fonstan 250 mg and Solaxin, but they have not alleviated her pain.
Recently, I also bought her some coated tablets from the pharmacy called "Quick Health," which is registered with the Department of Health, but she still cannot find relief from the pain and is unable to stand.
I hope the doctor can advise me on how to help her.

Xiao Ke Ai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/06/13

Dr. Chen Xingyuan reply Orthopedics

Dear User: Your mother may be experiencing vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis, which can sometimes present as subtle fractures that are not visible on standard X-rays.
The principle of treating vertebral compression fractures is to start with conservative management, including rest, the use of a back brace, and medication.
However, if conservative treatment is ineffective or if there are accompanying neurological symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Additionally, it is important to address the treatment of osteoporosis to reduce the risk of future fractures.
I recommend taking your mother to a larger hospital's orthopedic outpatient clinic for further evaluation to determine the underlying cause and to ensure proper treatment.
Wishing you health and safety! Sincerely, Dr.
Chen

Reply Date: 2007/06/13

More Info

Helping your mother overcome severe back pain and hunching is a multifaceted challenge that requires a comprehensive approach. Given her age and the symptoms you've described, it's essential to consider both medical and non-medical interventions to improve her quality of life.

Firstly, it's important to understand that back pain and hunching can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related degeneration, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, and poor posture. Since your mother has been diagnosed with some degree of osteoporosis and has experienced significant hunching, this could indicate that her spinal structure is weakening, which can lead to pain and difficulty standing upright.

Medical Evaluation and Treatment
1. Consultation with Specialists: Since the X-rays indicated some degeneration and osteoporosis, it might be beneficial to consult with a rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist. They can provide a more detailed assessment of her spine and overall bone health. They may also recommend additional imaging studies, such as an MRI, to rule out any other underlying issues.

2. Pain Management: While you mentioned that medications like Fonstan (an anti-inflammatory) and Solaxin (a muscle relaxant) have not provided relief, it may be worth discussing alternative pain management strategies with her doctor. This could include:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen her back muscles, improve flexibility, and promote better posture. They can also teach her proper body mechanics to reduce strain on her back.

- Medication Adjustment: Sometimes, a combination of medications or different classes of pain relievers (such as neuropathic pain medications) may be more effective. Discussing this with her healthcare provider is crucial.

- Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections into the spine can provide temporary relief from severe pain.

3. Bone Health: Since osteoporosis is a concern, ensuring that she is receiving adequate calcium and vitamin D is essential. Her doctor may recommend supplements if her dietary intake is insufficient. Additionally, medications like bisphosphonates may be prescribed to help strengthen her bones.

Non-Medical Interventions
1. Exercise and Physical Activity: Gentle exercises, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help maintain mobility and reduce pain. However, it's essential to tailor these activities to her capabilities and ensure they are safe. A physical therapist can guide her in this regard.

2. Posture Correction: Encouraging her to maintain good posture while sitting and standing can help alleviate some of the strain on her back. Ergonomic chairs and supportive cushions can also be beneficial.

3. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat pads or cold packs to the affected area can provide temporary relief from pain. Heat can help relax tense muscles, while cold can reduce inflammation.

4. Assistive Devices: If her hunching is severe, consider using assistive devices such as a walker or a cane to help her maintain balance and reduce the risk of falls. Additionally, back braces may provide support and help her maintain a more upright posture.

5. Emotional Support: Chronic pain can take a toll on mental health. Providing emotional support and encouraging her to engage in social activities can help improve her overall well-being. Consider involving her in community activities or support groups for individuals with similar health challenges.

Conclusion
In summary, helping your mother overcome severe back pain and hunching requires a collaborative approach involving medical professionals, physical therapists, and supportive family members. Regular follow-ups with her healthcare provider are essential to monitor her condition and adjust her treatment plan as needed. Encourage her to stay active within her limits, maintain a healthy diet, and seek emotional support to navigate this challenging time. With the right interventions, there is hope for improvement in her condition and quality of life.

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