Chronic Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help - Traditional Chinese Medicine

Q: Chronic Back Pain: When to Seek Medical Help

Hello： You have a coccygeal contusion with a bone fracture that has lasted for over four years. <br>The bone should have healed, but the surrounding tissue is injured. <br>Although it has repaired, the local circulation remains poor, especially during activities such as fatigue,

Lower back pain!

I had a car accident 4.5 years ago, resulting in a fracture of my coccyx.
At that time, the doctor said it would heal on its own, so I didn't seek further treatment.
Since then, I've frequently experienced lower back discomfort, which has become quite common.
Recently, due to my job in retail where I have to stand for long periods, I've developed lower back pain.
I usually have pain in my back, but in the past few days, it has shifted to the right side.
Could this indicate a kidney issue? If I go to the hospital, which department should I see? Thank you.

Tie Tou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/01/06

Dr. Huang Zhongzhun reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Hello: You have a coccygeal contusion with a bone fracture that has lasted for over four years.
The bone should have healed, but the surrounding tissue is injured.
Although it has repaired, the local circulation remains poor, especially during activities such as fatigue, prolonged standing, heavy lifting, or in cold weather, which can exacerbate the localized soreness and discomfort.
It is recommended to apply heat, perform massage, and engage in appropriate lumbar exercises.
If problems persist, it is advisable to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for medication or acupuncture as part of the treatment.
Wishing you health and safety.

Reply Date: 2008/01/06

More Info

Chronic back pain can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts daily life, and it is essential to understand when to seek medical help. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing persistent discomfort since your accident 4.5 years ago, particularly in the lower back region. The fact that your pain has evolved from general discomfort to more localized pain on the right side raises some important considerations.

Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that back pain can stem from various causes, including musculoskeletal issues, nerve compression, and even organ-related problems. Given your history of a tailbone fracture, it is possible that the original injury has led to ongoing issues such as muscle strain, ligament damage, or even changes in spinal alignment. Additionally, standing for prolonged periods, as you mentioned in your job at a department store, can exacerbate existing back pain due to increased pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles.

The right-sided pain you are experiencing could potentially be related to several factors. While kidney issues can cause referred pain to the back, it is essential to consider other musculoskeletal causes as well. Conditions such as muscle strain, herniated discs, or even sciatica could be contributing to your symptoms. Therefore, it is advisable not to jump to conclusions about kidney problems without further evaluation.

When seeking medical help, the first step is to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in musculoskeletal disorders. This could be a primary care physician, an orthopedic specialist, or a physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) physician. They will conduct a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, to assess the condition of your spine and surrounding structures.

In addition to medical evaluation, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for chronic back pain. A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall posture. This can be particularly beneficial if your job requires long periods of standing, as it can help alleviate strain on your back.

If conservative treatments, such as physical therapy and pain management strategies, do not provide sufficient relief, your healthcare provider may discuss additional options. These could include medications for pain relief, corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, or even surgical interventions in more severe cases.

In conclusion, it is essential to take your chronic back pain seriously, especially given your history of injury and the recent changes in your symptoms. Seeking medical help from a specialist in musculoskeletal disorders is a prudent step. They can help determine the underlying cause of your pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs. Remember, early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

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