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Differential Diagnosis for Low Back Pain Radiating to Cervical Spine

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Herniated Disc: This is often the most common cause of low back pain that radiates up to the cervical spine. The herniation can occur at any level of the spine, and if it compresses or irritates a nerve, it can cause pain that radiates along the nerve's path, potentially reaching the cervical region.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Spondylosis/Spondylolisthesis: These conditions involve degeneration or slippage of the vertebrae, which can put pressure on nerves and cause radiating pain.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, leading to pain that radiates from the lower back up to the cervical spine.
  • Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness, which can include low back pain radiating to other areas.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition that occurs when the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to severe pain, numbness, and potentially permanent nerve damage if not promptly treated.
  • Spinal Infection (Abscess or Osteomyelitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe pain and neurological deficits, requiring immediate medical attention.
  • Spinal Tumor: Tumors, whether benign or malignant, can compress nerves and cause radiating pain, making early diagnosis crucial.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of disorders that affect connective tissues supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues, which can lead to spinal instability and pain.
  • Scheuermann's Disease: A condition that affects the thoracic or cervical spine, leading to kyphosis and potentially causing pain that radiates.
  • Osteoporotic Compression Fracture: While more common in the elderly, these fractures can occur at any age due to osteoporosis and can cause sudden, severe back pain that may radiate.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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