Question
Last Saturday I was stretching in bed, could not get comfortable going to bed and was twisting my back (like I always do) and it sort of makes cracking noises (it always does). I'm male, 32 years old and in above average shape, do exercise regularly. The next day my lower back was killing me, like I broke it. Still did the breast cancer charity walk (4 miles) but had slight pain, felt like it was on the the the right side, so the next day it felt even worse. Now it is radiating on the left side (Wednesday), the lower area. Hurts getting in to a car, sleeping can be difficult also. Walking I can get a sharp pain if I go into certain positions. Is this just a strained muscle that will heal in a few days, or should I be worried? My girlfriend rubbed some mentholated muscle rub and it felt better, but it still is very sensitive. The muscle along the sides of my spine don't feel sore, and the spine itself does not feel sore, can't explain it, it's like it's inside, if I try to twist or bend side to side, forget about it. Anyone ever had experience with this type of pain, might it cause serious irreversible damage? Is it just a twisted/strained back? Help :(

Answer
Hi Dave,

Most herniated and bulging discs all start out localized then spread, get worse and become functionally significant. Muscle strains get better after 72 hours especially with ice. If it doesn't respond by that time, get a Chiropractor in your area to evaluate you; if it is a herniation, you'll need advice from me since there are many options, mostly ineffective, dangerous, expensive and painful.
Reading past posts on herniated discs can give you a good idea of the best and most proven gold standard treatment; flexion/distraction.
Get back with me if symptoms don't improve very soon, otherwise possible serious consequences may arise.


Good Luck!

Dr. Timothy K. Dunrin