Scared, have pain in my back...

United States
April 12, 2009 1:29am CST
I have had a dull pain in my back for a few days, but it was nothing serious. I assumed I'd pulled a muscle since I'd been exercising more lately and been much more active than before. However, I have also been so sleepy lately and took an afternoon nap after work today. When I woke up, I had a sharp pain in my right lower back where the DULL pain had been, and the pain surged all the way down my right leg. I could barely move, walk, or lift my right leg. The pain has slightly subsided. Ibuprofen and heating pads have not really helped at all. It scared me mostly because of the dramatic increase in pain in such a short time. I am worried it might be some kidney problem or some more serious condition than a pulled muscle. Anyone have any ideas, or comforting words??! --
2 people like this
6 responses
@peavey (16936)
• United States
13 Apr 09
I'm certainly not a doctor, but with a pain that shoots down your leg, I don't think it's a kidney problem. Usually kidneys will hurt in the middle of the mid to lower back. I've read that 95% of all pain is muscular in origin, but if the pain continues to bother you, go to a doctor to be sure.
1 person likes this
• United States
13 Apr 09
Thanks to everyone for their responses. I figured it was a pinched nerve or something since the pain radiated down my leg rather than stayed in one central area... I made it through the day and slept well, and the next day (Sunday) woke up with the same dull ache rather than the unbearable pain I experienced the day before after my nap. Today it feels even less achey, so hopefully it's all subsiding. If the pain had persisted, I would have hesitantly seen a medical professional.
@mummymo (23706)
22 Apr 09
I normally always respond via email Bethany but this had me worried. I am glad to see that it sounds as though the pain is lessening and that is fantastic but please, please promise me you will see a doc if it recurs or doesn't get properly healed. I have chronic back problems and disk surgery failed to help but due to my nerve being squished and the dis leaking the nerve was damaged and will never repair. My right leg is affected from my hip right down to my toes and I get sever pain and spasms and quite often my leg just goes from under me. I am not trying to frighten you - just want you to know that leaving it to see if it will get better is not always the best idea so please, please if it is still bothering you get it checked out! xxx
1 person likes this
@AmbiePam (93740)
• United States
12 Apr 09
Sounds like a pinched nerve.
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Apr 09
Check for gall stones.
1 person likes this
• United States
16 Apr 09
sounds like a pinched nerve to me.. those hurt like hell and seem to travel.. but if you still have it (5 days later since im late at replying) i hope you do get it checked out..
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Apr 09
ya if you have this increasing pain, go see a specialist depending on what type of health plan you have. or if you see a chiropractor at all, i would definitely say go and see him. hope this helps!
1 person likes this