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Why is my back pain more while standing and sitting?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

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.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr.Muhammad Majid Hanif is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Cardiology. He listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At September 2, 2016
Reviewed At July 2, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr.Muhammad Majid Hanif is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Cardiology. He listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Back Pain While Standing and Sitting Awareness Builder

Back pain while standing or sitting?

Five quick questions help you understand the typical patterns of back pain, what to mention to your doctor, and when a prompt call is advisable.

This tool provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Dr. Muhammad Majid Hanif

Cardiology

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr.Muhammad Majid Hanif is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Cardiology. He listens to all the patient queries deliberately and is an expert in devising a proper treatment plan.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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