44 yr old female-Im a paramedic and injured my back at work. MRI showed a buldging disc in L3 L4. This injury happened 6wks ago, Im in PT but cant sit for long or stand for any lenght of time. Im in pain, but also have a lot of pressure on my lower spine. Pain radiates down buttocks and side of hips. I have to be able to lift 150lbs to go back to work, and this pain is scaring me! My ortho Dr stated a lot of people have this and usually gets better with PT and meds...but mine is not getting better. Could something not show up on the MRI? Im normally very active, I did run and do yoga.
Welcome to Chat Doctor .1.It's not complication, but it's seen in degenerative changes also (age related). Disk bulge is not particular in trauma / trauma general shows with lysis / listless. 2.To also need to get an x-ray to find out if there are any fractures.3. I would recommend not to lift weight, it's contraindicated in back pain.4. Do exercise on daily basis for low back pain - initially it will help, If not then you have to get the needful treatment done. Hope it helps you. Wish you a good health. Anything to ask ? Do not hesitate. Thank you.