Back pain

I'm a 56 y/o female with about 10 year history of numbness, and sometimes tingling, in both thighs upon standing or walking a relatively short time. Also, off and on, pain in hip joints while walking.

Almost two weeks ago, while bending and twisting my upper body, suffered extreme pain in lower left spine - almost a ripping sensation. The pain became localized in the lower spine and buttock. With certain movement, it radiates down the left leg. In addition, I now notice the numbness in my left thigh starts as a burning sensation.

With curtailment of activity, heat applied to the lower back and buttock and moving VERY carefully, the pain was easing up.

Three nights ago, I again turned and bent 'just so' and the extreme pain is back. Again applied heat and curtailed activity and though it seems to be somewhat better, its still extremely painful. Sitting up from a supine position, moving after a short period of being in one postition or standing from a sitting position causes extreme pain in left buttock. I'm very stiff and the pain is worse on arising in the morning.

A chiropractor has been suggested but my question is, in addition to the cause, is there anything I can do to alleviate the debilitating pain and keep it from happening again? Seeing a doctor is not an option; no insurance and no money.

Thank you for your help.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

I'm sorry that you're unable to see a doctor and get the appropriate testing. In an ideal world where the exorbitant cost of healthcare is not an issue, you should see a neurologist and get an MRI of the lower spine to see if you have a bad/slipped disc that's pushing on the nerves going down to your leg (which is what it sounds like). COnservative medical therapy includes rest, light physical therapy, NSAIDs like motrin/ibuprofen, and heating pads as you are doing. Refrain from any heavy lifting which is basically anything heavier than a gallon of milk, and use common sense in your daily activities. No strenuous exercise. If there is not a serious problem in your spine, it should get better over the next few weeks. GOod luck.

[qwerty]

CCF - I've been thinking about this all afternoon and feel I must say thank you again.

Surely your schedule is as busy as most people's, yet you find time to answer questions on this board. You'll never meet any of us, never earn a dime from the time you spend on us -

Why, Doc, you better be careful. You're enough to give doctors a good name! ;)

Okay, seriously, at a time when health care in the United States is sliding down a slippery slope and doctors seem to be spending less and less time on patient care, this board and your help is real breathe of fresh air.

[mickyfinn]

Read a book called treat your own back by Robin Mckenzie or go to a physio who specialises in the Mckenzie technique. It helped me enormously. After 6 years of continuous pain i am finaly finding relief.