Pain in the anal region for evaluation.

Hello,

Thank you for choosing DoctorSpring.

I need some additional information so that I can provide a solid opinion.
You can reply as a followup.

1. Is the pain constant ? Is there any shock like sensation ?
2. Do you feel numbness anywhere in the leg ?
3. Does the pain increase when you cough ?
4. Any trouble in passing urine or stools ? (like hesitancy to urinate ?)
5. Have you experienced similar pain before due to the L5-S1 disc tear ?
6. Have you tried any medication ?

Thank you

1. Is the pain constant ? Is there any shock like sensation ? Yes and yes

2. Do you feel numbness anywhere in the leg ? Not numbness just tinglng

3. Does the pain increase when you cough ? No

4. Any trouble in passing urine or stools ? (like hesitancy to urinate ?) No I did both this morning.

5. Have you experienced similar pain before due to the L5-S1 disc tear ? No

6. Have you tried any medication ? No

Thank you

Your symptoms are suggestive of a pinched nerve or nerve compression, most likey to a disc bulge. So chances are that the already damaged disc is compressing the nerve roots at the L5 - S1 level causing the pain. It will difficult to ascertain the cause for now, but even a trivial trauma can precipitate a bulge in an already damaged disc.

For pain relief you can take an OTC pain medication like Ibuprofen 400 mg twice a day. Take it with food. You should take absolute bed rest if possible. Lie down in a neutral position - which makes you comfortable. Most people with similar pain prefer to sleep on the side (lateral position) with a pillow between the knee. Some prefer lying on their stomach (prone). You can see for yourself which suits you best.

DO NOT BEND over or carry weight. With rest and pain meds the inflammation will subside and in most cases there will be symptom resolution. If the pain is really troubling you or if you have no relief in 48 hours or if you have any of the warning signs mentioned below you should get medical help. You might need a physical examinton and a MRI study.

The warning signs to look out are : Weakness, Loss of sensation (reduced touch feeling) anywhere in the leg, any trouble in urination or defecation.
Take good rest. You can get back to me anytime

Hope this helps
Feel free to ask followups / clarification.
Thank you

OK will do. Thanks! I was just concerned that it was an infection. If it is a pinch nerve, I can deal with pain and discomfort for a while.

Thanks again!

Well technically an infection or abscess can also affect the disc and cause pinched nerve. But considering your symptom this is highly unlikely. ( You will be feverish, generally tired etc).

Thank you
Wish you speedy recovery.
Feel free to get back to me anytime.