I did more blood work, ,and WBC went down to a normal range, but I’m still having pain - stabbing pains especially when I move from a seated position or am lying down and have to lift myself up.

My doctor prescribed physical therapy. I went to four sessions ;after everyone of them I had even more pain - to the point of tears. They did an electro-therapy with heat to help relax the muscle along with stretches. I am not able to stretch like I used to.

My doctor previously told me nothing seemed to be wrong other than a muscle strain, but should my muscles cause me pain even when walking or sitting or when I sneeze? I’m not sure what to do, although my doctor now wants me to get an MRI.

In hindsight, I think it happened because of moving heavy boxes up and down a flight of stairs plus twisting motions for ab work.

How do doctors rule out issues with kidneys, bowels, other spine issues, and how long does it take to recover from a lower back injury?

Answer:

Thank you for your questions.

Your doctor would typically rule out a systemic origin (kidneys etc.) to your pain through a precise history, blood work, urine analysis etc. It would be your history that would typically clue him/her into a non-orthopedic basis for your pain. The MRI should provide some more clues as to the cause and hopefully rule out any red flag issues.

Assuming the pains are stemming from an issue with your muscles, joints or other soft tissue they were right in referring you to Physiotherapy. Your physiotherapist is also able rule out a systemic origin to your pain. While in the case of severe pain, I would suggest that you may have required more then four treatments, the treatments should not have made things feel drastically worse. We will sometimes stir things up in the first couple treatments as we figure out the cause of the pain and start some techniques to reduce spasms, increase joint range or whatever the Physio has decided is necessary.

From your brief description of the potential injury, it should be something a Physio can work you through. It sounds like there could be an issue with the discs between your vertebra (back bones). I would suggest giving your therapist a bit more time and certainly discussing your increased pain levels post treatment. If you are not confident in the therapist, you may even seek a second opinion. As mentioned, they will likely be able to rule out a bigger issue and should be able to help your pains.

Time frame is the most common question and, to be honest, one of the most difficult to answer when there is no specific injury. Typically we would suggest 6 -8 weeks of steady progression if the injury is properly treated.

Thank you for your question and good luck!