HomeAnswersInternal Medicinedisk herniationMy back pain more while standing and sitting. Why?

Why is my back pain more while standing and sitting?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At September 2, 2016
Reviewed AtJanuary 4, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am a 53 year old male. I got herniated disc 12 years ago in the lumbar region, but I do not remember the level. I had an epidural shortly thereafter and it seemed to work. I have visited three orthopedic doctors for thoracic pain. I have had x-rays and MRIs on thoracic as well as cervical areas. Most recently had facets injections at T5-T7. But, I did not get relief. Also, I had shots to the muscles in and around the left shoulder blade and there was no change. Currently, I am taking Hydrocodone, Baclofen, Meloxicam, and Gabapentin. One doctor said I have bone spurs and that could cause the pain, but the other two did not say that.

I have had the pain for about two to three years and the pain was manageable with Ibuprofen and heat patches. In the last three months or so, the pain has intensified from about 5 to 8 or 9 depending on my activity. The pain is near the shoulder blade on the left side and feels like it goes straight through to the chest. The chest also hurts and both back and chest feels tight. I have had several EKGs and stress tests and all come back normal. I also have tingling on my left side and under my left armpit. Sitting is probably the most uncomfortable with standing being the next and lying down being the best. I cannot do any physical activities. I really do not want any further shots as I do not think they would do any good. I am just looking for someone to offer an opinion that makes sense for my symptoms.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I am sorry to hear about the painful situation you are facing. It seems that bony spurs and small joint pathology are the main causes of your chronic pain and discomfort. Weight-bearing joints are particularly affected, as evident from the increased pain when standing up and the relief experienced when lying down, as the burden of body weight transmission is reduced on the axial skeleton. In such cases, conservative pain medications can be attempted. Additionally, I would recommend seeking the opinion of a neurologist to explore further options for alleviating this pain sensation.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif
Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Cardiology

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