What could be the cause of lower back and hip pain?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a woman aged 43 and have been experiencing concerning symptoms for the past few months, including persistent lower back pain, stiffness, especially in the mornings, and discomfort in my hips. The pain seems to improve with movement, but it has affected my daily routine. I am wondering if this could be something serious, like spondylitis, and if I need immediate medical care. What tests should I undergo to diagnose this condition, and what treatment options are available? Is it curable, or is this something I will need to manage long-term?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query.

I understand your concerns, and if these symptoms have persisted for months, it is important to examine them. While they may not immediately point to spondylitis, they could suggest a spinal issue or be related to the pelvis or nerves.

I suggest you start with a physical examination by a general physician. The physician will assess whether the symptoms are nerve or muscle-related and whether they involve the lumbar spine or pelvis. Based on this assessment, the physician may refer you to a specialist. To confirm if the issue is related to the spine, a lumbar MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can be done to check for any deformities. Depending on the findings, treatments like physical therapy, lumbar support, and medications for muscle or nerve pain may be recommended.

To summarize, visit your specialist doctor, who will guide you through the next steps.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.