Orthopedist Questions Orthopedist

What to do about lower back pain?

I have lower back pain not all the time but when I use it in certain ways. But now it has caused my buttocks to hurt when I only sit down. It also runs down into my legs.

Male | 48 years old
Complaint duration: It started really in November 2019 on a long flight to Brazil.
Medications: None
Conditions: None

3 Answers

It sounds like you may have some issues with lumbar disc and potential sciatic nerve issues. Take some oral anti-inflammatory after discussing with your family physician, use heating pads, do some core strengthening exercise and see an orthopedist if pain persists, for clinical evaluation and MEI lumbar spine as necessary
Most commonly low back pain is attributable to the muscles and tendons. The best treatment for that is a physical exercise routine that includes stretching, strengthening and core agility. Anti-inflammatory medications may help decrease the pain related to specific activities and should be used until the exercise program has decreased the pain.

Jeffrey R. Carlson, MD
Prolonged sitting in incorrect positions can possibly lead to lower back disc degeneration. An indication of disease progression can be pain radiating down either legs. I would see a spine specialist to review more in detail your symptoms, go into more specifics the triggers that cause your pain along besides sitting. I would also start off with an office X-rays of your lumbar spine along with a more detailed history and examination. A telemedicine visit would also be a good first start as well.