Chronic Back & Leg Pain

Chronic back and leg pain is described as pain that is felt in the back and/or leg that may result from spinal diseases including: arachnoiditis, degenerative disc disease, epidural fibrosis, failed back syndrome, lumbar disc herniation, osteoporosis, and spinal stenosis. Back pain is often located in the lower back, but it may extend to other areas, such as the thighs, calves, and feet. Affected areas may feel tender or sore to the touch, and the pain may increase with movement. This type of pain can be felt as sharp or knife-like pain, a burning sensation, or as a dull muscular ache. Symptoms can range from mildly uncomfortable to completely disabling.

If you have been diagnosed with this type of pain, talk to your doctor to determine what kinds of therapies would work for you. Your doctor (or a doctor to whom you are referred) will put you through a selection process to determine which treatments may benefit you. Results vary; not every result is the same.

Why Do People Suffer With Pain?
Many people suffer with chronic pain because they are unaware of treatment options that can help them live more normal lives. Others have fears that prevent them from talking about their pain, which in turn creates barriers to seeking adequate relief. (Not all treatment options are applicable to your type of pain.)

Read the following to see if you fall into one of these categories. If you can relate to these fears, remember that help and relief are possible, but only if you discuss your symptoms with your doctor.

Fear of being labeled a "bad patient." You won't find relief if you don't talk with your doctor about your pain.
Fear that increased pain may mean that your disease has worsened. Regardless of the state of your disease, the right treatment for pain may improve daily life for you and your family.
Fear of addiction to drugs. Research shows that the chance of people with chronic pain becoming addicted to pain-relieving drugs is extremely small. When taken properly for pain, drugs can relieve pain without addiction. Needing to take medication to control your pain is not addiction.
Lack of awareness about pain therapy options. Be honest about how your pain feels and how it affects your life. Ask your doctor about the pain therapy options available to you. Often, if one therapy isn't effectively controlling your pain, another therapy can.
Fear of being perceived as "weak." Some people believe that living stoically with pain is a sign of strength, while seeking help often is considered negative or weak. This perception prevents them seeking the best treatment with available therapies.

Because there are many new ways to treat pain, it is important that you speak openly with your doctor or with a doctor who specializes in treating chronic pain. Refer them to this web site so that they too can learn more about treatment options for your pain.