The back feels swollen and uncomfortable, as if wanting someone to step on or press it—what's the matter?

Nov 28, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've been experiencing a persistent feeling of fullness in my back recently, which is very uncomfortable. The sensation is so intense that I feel like having someone step or press firmly on my back to relieve it. This condition has lasted for several days and is seriously affecting my daily life. I'd like to know what's causing this.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian

Back pain is a common symptom that can be caused by various factors.

1. Muscle strain: This occurs due to prolonged heavy physical labor or improper posture, commonly seen in cases of overuse or injury of the lower back muscles.

2. Spinal problems: Conditions such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar spinal stenosis, and lumbar spondylolisthesis may cause back pain. These conditions might lead to nerve compression, resulting in pain.

3. Internal diseases: Conditions such as kidney disease and gastrointestinal issues may sometimes refer pain to the back, causing discomfort and pain.

4. Psychological stress: Excessive psychological stress may manifest as back pain.

5. Other factors: Diseases such as sciatica, rheumatism, or rheumatoid arthritis, and fasciitis may also present as back pain. The latter two conditions are generally related to inflammation and immune factors.

6. Non-disease factors: Localized exposure to cold or maintaining the same posture for extended periods may also lead to back pain.

Improving lifestyle habits, physical therapy, medication, or psychological counseling can help alleviate or prevent these conditions. It is recommended that patients seek immediate medical attention when experiencing symptoms as mentioned above.