Do back pain and frequent urination mean nerve issues?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing heaviness in my lower back, frequent urination, burning in my feet, back muscle spasms, and occasional spine pain.

Current medications: Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin, and Doxycycline.
History of medication: Taken earlier for the same complaint.
Lab tests done: Renal function tests (RFT), Typhi, H. pylori, and HbA1c, all reported normal.

What could be the possible diagnosis and treatment?

Thank you for your time and guidance.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

From what you describe, heaviness in the lower back, burning in the feet, muscle spasms, frequent urination, and spine pain at night, there are a few important possibilities to consider. Since your renal function tests (RFTs), HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), and H. pylori (Helicobacter pylori) were normal, major kidney disease and diabetes are less likely.

Your symptoms could point toward a nerve-related issue such as lumbar spine compression, sciatica, or early peripheral neuropathy, especially since burning in the feet and nighttime spine pain often suggest nerve involvement.

Your blood pressure reading (143/86 with a pulse of 100) is on the higher side, which can sometimes affect kidney circulation and nerve health over time, even if your RFTs are currently normal. The urinary frequency may be due to prostatitis (swelling or infection of the prostate gland), urinary tract irritation, or sometimes even medication-related changes.

Since you have recently used antibiotics (Azithromycin, Ciprofloxacin, Doxycycline), it is important to check whether these were given for a urinary or genital infection, as incomplete or recurrent infection may still explain your discomfort. I suggest the following:

Recommended investigations

Urine analysis and culture (to rule out infection).
Prostate evaluation if infection is suspected.
Lumbar spine X-ray or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), to check for disc or nerve problems.
Blood tests: vitamin B12, electrolytes, thyroid function

Differential diagnosis

Nerve compression or neuropathy (damage or irritation of the nerves).
Prostatitis or urinary infection.
Musculoskeletal strain, injury, or overstretching of the muscles.

Probable diagnosis: Early neuropathy or urinary tract involvement, pending further tests.

Treatment plan:

If infection is confirmed: targeted antibiotics.
If nerve-related: physiotherapy, neuropathic pain medicines, posture care.
For high blood pressure: lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, stress control) and medication if needed.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.