<human>: I had received a lower lumbar sprain a few years ago due to having hit my lower back against the sharp edge of an armrest on a chair and since then at least 3 to 8 times a month it spasms and I have to immediately stop whatever I am doing because I can t move and the pain takes my breathe away and the sharp pain in my lower back lasts for several minutes. Could it be caused by a pinched nerve in my back ? I no longer qualify for Medicaid and I don t know what to do. Sincerely Jerry Upp
<bot>: Hi, Thanks for your query. The symptoms that you are having are likely to be due to a nerve root compression. You need to get an MRI scan of the area done and consult a neurophysician for proper diagnosis and treatment.Meanwhile, you can follow these measures:- If the pain is severe, you need bed rest till the pain resolves. - Get some analgesics prescribed and apply analgesic spray or ointments.- While resting, keep a pillow under your knees if it doesn't bother you.- Avoid lifting heavy objects.- Back strengthening exercises and stretching exercises daily as advised by a Physiotherapist.- Avoid exercises in times of pain. - Improvise your posture while sitting. I do hope that you have found something helpful, and I will be glad to answer any further query. Take care