Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: myofascial back pain????

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Pain

Re: myofascial back pain????

Re: myofascial back pain????

Posted by CCF MD on November 18, 1997 at 10:46:23:

In Reply to: myofascial back pain???? posted by kevin hoover on October 06, 1997 at 21:50:32:

: i'm 40 years old; male; i started having what i thought was a "crick" in my neck
around first of july. it didn't clear up and went to see dr.; i was put on
lorcet and generic soma and paxil. problem continued. x-ray of neck was done
checked out ok. 2-3 more weeks passed. expressed to dr. that the pain origi-
nated in mid-part of back between shoulder blades.; another x-ray was done.
it showed an "s" shape in spine exactly where pain was originating. he dia-
nosed "myofascial back pain" as the pain radiates upward to neck; shoulders
and arms. i was referred to pain clinic. i was given about 50+ trigger points
injections with "marcaine and a steroid"....no help. i'm to receive a tens
unit 10-8; and scheduled for epidural nerve block on the 23rd. the pain dr.
doesn't want me to be taking the lorcet and soma in fear of addiction. i'm
in sales for printing co. and i have to be able to make a living. (ps. the
pain dr. put me on neurotin 300mg x 3) any advice? suggesgtions?? from what
i have read on the internet there is a change in the medical field regarding
treating chronic benign pain with opiates (lorcet, etc.) any suggestions
would be appreciated.
thanks,
kevin hoover

Kevin, sorry about the delay. There are many causes of chronic back or neck pain. If you have been
having problems since July then you really are into a chronic pain problem. Myofascial back pain
is really a non-specific terms used to denote a number of causes for back pain that are thought to be musclulo-skeletal in nature.
In general we do not recommend narcotics for back pain. At this point if you have not done so a neurologic evaluation may be helpful
in delineating other causes of your pain. You should be involved in physical therapy.I hope you find relief with your current treatment plan
and if you would like a consultation with a CCF neurologist you can call 216 444 5559.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options of
your specific medical condition.
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