Since you have had an MRI of the lumbar area and/or pelvis already, I assume that you have visited your primary care physician (PCP) or an orthopaedist already. As an M.D. myself, and someone who has also had spine-related pain (I had a bad disc in my neck that was treated with surgery), I know that this can be a debilitating and frustrating, sometimes chronic problem. I empathize with you.

The first step is to see your physician. If your PCP ordered the MRI, then it was likely read by a radiologist and nothing out of the normal was noted. If the pain continues, however, as well as the numbness, a visit to an orthopaedist (bone doctor), and even one who subspecializes in the spine, might be in order. Often times, when someone has a back problem, pain is not the only symptom, and numbness or tingling can also accompany this (since many nerves exit the spine - compression or mal-alignment can affect these nerves leading to pain and/or numbness).

Although PCPs are often great at diagnosing and treating back pain, an orthopaedist's viewpoint can often be invaluable. And if you have had no improvement over time, or things have gotten worse, a trip to a specialist is probably in order. A second opinion can always be of some value. As always, be cautious, and if things worsen acutely always make a visit immediately to your physician or the Emergency Department.

Good luck and hope things improve for you.

Edited by jcfay on March 14 2006 at 4:24 PM