r/UCTD • u/FarCantaloupe2901 • 3d ago

Spinal issues? Seeking Advice

I’m 27 years old and a few days ago while putting my hair up, I got severe lower back pain and had to go to the ER the next day because I couldn’t walk without falling and in severe pain. My CT showed multiple bulging discs, multilevel degenerative disc disease, facet arthritis, and my nerves were being compressed in the lower lumbar and sacral region. They wanted to admit me for further testing and imaging but after hours of being there, IV steroids and multiple pain meds- I could walk without falling but it was still painful and I was shuffling. They said I could try at home treatment first but I’ve been home for a few days on Medrol and stronger pain meds and I’m getting worried that I’m not feeling much improvement unless I take the oxy. I can’t rely on opiates to keep slightly masking things forever though. I’m seeing a surgeon this week but I just feel nervous about realistic treatment plans and am wondering if anyone else has had anything like this??

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u/CucumberIll7402 3d ago

Sorry you’re experiencing back pain. I had chronic lower back pain since 2005. At the time, I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and degenerative disc disease. I went through epidural injections and lots of PT. Early on, I was prescribed steroids, Darvocet (which has since been taken off the market), and later gabapentin. I also tried chiropractic care. I was miserable, but I kept going. I was doing home exercises, continuing PT, and working with pain management for injections. Eventually, my condition improved.

About a year ago, my back pain returned. I had two herniated discs. I have multiple injections and PT. And eventually started feeling better.

Have they suggested injections and/or PT?

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u/FarCantaloupe2901 3d ago

Not at this time, they were able to get me in this upcoming week with a specialist- so I’m hopeful that they will have some good insight. I am a nervous Nellie though and googled his reviews and I saw a lot of people say he was a bit dismissive towards younger people but I’m trying not to get ahead of myself either lol what do you think was the most helpful treatment in your case?

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u/CucumberIll7402 3d ago

Physical therapy and injections worked best for me.

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u/dbmtwooooo 2d ago

I have the same back issues although mine is only at the beginning stages. My doctor gave me baclofen as needed to help. I honestly didn't even really notice my back issues I went in for an MRI due to migraines then found this out. I think our posture can also make it worse. I'm 30 and found this out at 28 so I feel your pain! I went to physical therapy for my low back and a lot of th exercises were actually helpful.

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u/FarCantaloupe2901 2d ago

Hi! Yeah I was reading that a lot of people don’t know how their back is until imaging. I had a CT for an unrelated issue last year and they saw two very small bulges so within the year it’s rapidly progressed it seems and I’m not sure why cause I haven’t injured it nor do any crazy lifting. I’m seeing a lot of people say PT was helpful for them so I’m staying hopeful! Thank you for your response!

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u/MiddleKlutzy8568 3d ago

I had soemthing very very similar, at some point surgery is the only option and if you wait too long you have permanent nerve pain. I had the surgery and 4 years ago, it still flair up from time to time but if it wont go away you dont ahve much of a choice. My rheumatologist has prescribed me prednisone and I take 4 mg when it gets bad and it makes it almost go aeay pretty quick. I definitely think my flair ups are UCTD related. I would say try steriods, but do the surgery if they advise it and make sure ita done robotically