Help! I need advice

[babysister66]

Help. I have never had back problems. I am a 42 year old female. My lower back has been in agony for the last few days, going down the left leg. I have noticed at the base of my spine I have a large lump that feels like it kind of rolls around when I touch it. I hurt to sit , stand , bend, ect. Is this something to go to ER for, or is it just a swollen muscle? If I do go, can they do anything? I don't have insurance, that is why I'm asking. Please someone let me know if this will just go away. I Hurt!

 

[sherry1]

Hi

Well if it was me in your situation i would get checked out by my doctor.
You may have pulled a muscle but it may be something more especially with the pain going down your leg.
It may be sciatica which is related to a nerve pinched somewhere.

I am not sure how your medical system works where you are and how fast you can get to see a doctor but it's always best to get it checked.

Let us know how you get on.

 

[chefjosh]

hey babyS...

That lump you mentioned sounRAB a bit troublesome. Your pain sounRAB like a classic sciatica, and believe you me, I know sciatica!

I know that a small disk herniation will heal itself over a period of time, however, if the pain is debilitating, go get it looked at!! Go to one of those walk-in clinics...it'll cost you $100 or so, but that's a very small price to pay for piece of mind.

HOWEVER, if this is something serious, and it is discovered while you are uninsured, it will become a pre-existing condition excluding it from future claims.

There is an awful lot to consider there...everyone will tell you that your health is more important than your money, and I would agree...but you don't want to end up paying out of pocket for a surgery.

Feel better babys!

-josh

"Keep on keepin' on..."

 

[babysister66]

Thanks to you who answered. I did go to a Dr. yesterday, and they said it was sciatica and inflamed muscles. They gave me muscle relaxers, but the pain is very intense today. I have a call in to see if they can give me some pain killers for a few days, and either it starts feeling better or I am going to ER on monday. Wow, you all are brave on here. I didn't realize back pain could be so intense

 

[mznell]

Yes, we are a touch bunch!!

Be advised that most sciatica cases will resolve on their own, but it usually takes about 6 weeks. During that time you need to be very careful so that you don't cause further damage. Avoid activities that require bending, twisting or lifting more than 5-10 pounRAB. Try to lie down when you have a chance (rather than sitting in a chair) so your discs have a chance to "unload." Gravity is not your friend when it comes to sciatic pain.