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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Bayamón, PR
February 12
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A MyLupusTeam Member

My back has been messed up for years from being rear ended by a semi at 17 and being a CNA for 12 years but the last year it has been really bad. I have RA, Lupus, and Sjogrens, and my back MRI shows arthritis activity in my entire spine. It's really having fun now because I hurt my leg and I've had to be off my immunosuppresants for the last 2 months and will be for awhile. If you are having different pain, you should get it checked. They did an abrasion, which helped some.

February 12
MyLupusTeam

Are you experiencing pain in your spine?

Spinal pain can occur in people with lupus for several reasons. Lupus itself can cause inflammation that affects the spine, and the condition has been linked to degenerative disc disease (DDD), where the shock-absorbing discs in your spinal column wear down over time.

Common causes of Show Full Answer

Are you experiencing pain in your spine?

Spinal pain can occur in people with lupus for several reasons. Lupus itself can cause inflammation that affects the spine, and the condition has been linked to degenerative disc disease (DDD), where the shock-absorbing discs in your spinal column wear down over time.

Common causes of spine pain related to lupus include:

* Joint inflammation from lupus affecting spinal joints
* Degenerative disc disease, which lupus may contribute to
* Osteoporosis (weakened bones), which is more common in people with lupus
* Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition that often occurs alongside lupus
* Side effects from corticosteroid medications used to treat lupus

The pain can appear in different areas of your spine - the neck (cervical), mid-back (thoracic), or lower back (lumbar) regions. Some people also experience radiating pain down their legs if nerves are affected.

It's important to talk with your doctor about your spine pain. They may recommend tests like X-rays, MRI scans, or blood work to identify the cause. Treatment options could include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion, or adjustments to your current lupus medications.

If you're experiencing severe pain, numbness, tingling, or difficulty with movement, reach out to your healthcare provider promptly.

February 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

Kathalina, please see your doctor. In addition to what AI mentions, spontaneous vertebral fractures and, rarely, spinal infections are other possible causes of spinal pain. Please keep us posted, and I hope you get relief soon!

February 13
A MyLupusTeam Member

Hello @A MyLupusTeam Member good to hear from you, hope you and your family are doing well. Sorry you’re having spine pain, hope you get relief soon. Have a peaceful Thursday and stay safe.

February 12
A MyLupusTeam Member

@A MyLupusTeam Member with the blood test results you have shared and your other symptoms, please go see your doctor. When there are cross symptoms, it can be challenging to get a diagnosis but if you feel bad, I would not wait. Lupus is such a complex disease. You need an entire team of doctors. I hope you feel better soon.

February 19

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