Discomfort: When Eye Issues Signal Orthopedic Problems

Q: Discomfort: When Eye Issues Signal Orthopedic Problems

Orthopedic physician's response： After lifting heavy objects and being busy for half a month, you have developed muscle fatigue in your lower back and legs, leading to myofascial inflammation. <br>Due to individual differences, some people may need to rest for two to three weeks.

Discomfort caused by eye problems?

Hello, Doctor: At the beginning of July, I was moving both at work and home for over half a month, which involved lifting heavy objects.
This has resulted in persistent lower back pain and leg soreness.
Initially, I didn't think much of it, but now the back pain continues, and my legs, especially the left one, feel uncomfortable when I walk for a long time.
Sometimes, my left leg feels swollen, and resting for a night doesn't necessarily help; it often takes until the third day for the swelling sensation to subside.
On several occasions, when I sleep on my left side, I wake up in the middle of the night with numbness in my left leg, and it takes about twenty minutes of massage for it to feel better.
What could be the cause of this, and which specialty should I consult?

YY, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/08/06

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics

Orthopedic physician's response: After lifting heavy objects and being busy for half a month, you have developed muscle fatigue in your lower back and legs, leading to myofascial inflammation.
Due to individual differences, some people may need to rest for two to three weeks.
If you do not fully recover, you may continue to experience fatigue.
It is recommended to rest for two to six weeks.
If you have any issues, you can visit the orthopedic outpatient clinic.

Reply Date: 2001/08/06

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the discomfort you are experiencing in your back and left leg. Based on your description, it seems that the physical strain from moving heavy objects has led to a series of symptoms that may be interconnected. Let’s break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and recommendations.

Symptoms Overview
1. Persistent Back Pain: This is common after heavy lifting or prolonged physical activity. It can be due to muscle strain, ligament sprain, or even issues with the spine such as herniated discs.

2. Left Leg Discomfort: The swelling and numbness you describe in your left leg, especially after prolonged activity, could indicate several issues. It might be related to circulation problems, nerve compression, or musculoskeletal strain.

3. Numbness and Tingling: The numbness you experience when sleeping on your left side could suggest nerve compression, possibly from the position you are sleeping in or from underlying issues in your spine.

Possible Causes
1. Muscle Strain: Lifting heavy objects can lead to muscle fatigue and strain, which may cause pain and discomfort in the back and legs.

2. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as sciatica, where the sciatic nerve is compressed, can lead to pain, numbness, and swelling in the legs. This is often exacerbated by certain positions or activities.

3. Circulatory Issues: Swelling in the legs can also be a sign of circulatory problems, which may require further evaluation.

4. Postural Issues: Poor posture during lifting or prolonged sitting can lead to back pain and discomfort in the legs.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Given your symptoms, I recommend seeing an orthopedic specialist or a physical therapist. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including physical examinations and possibly imaging studies (like X-rays or MRIs) to assess for any underlying issues.

2. Rest and Ice: In the meantime, ensure you are resting adequately and applying ice to the affected areas to reduce inflammation.

3. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Engage in gentle stretching exercises for your back and legs. Strengthening exercises can also help support your spine and improve overall stability.

4. Posture Awareness: Pay attention to your posture while sitting, standing, and lifting. Proper body mechanics can prevent further strain.

5. Sleep Position: Consider adjusting your sleep position. If sleeping on your left side causes numbness, try sleeping on your back or right side, using pillows to support your legs.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If they worsen or if you experience additional symptoms such as severe pain, weakness, or changes in bowel or bladder function, seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion
Your symptoms are not uncommon after physical exertion, but they warrant a professional evaluation to rule out any serious conditions. It’s essential to address these issues early to prevent chronic pain or complications. Please take care of yourself, and I hope you find relief soon.

Best wishes for your health and recovery.

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