Differential Diagnosis for Nerve Pain on One Side of the Back
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: This condition, often due to a herniated disc, can cause nerve pain on one side of the back. The pain typically radiates down to the leg and is accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness. It's a common condition that matches the symptom profile closely.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Musculoskeletal Strain: Muscle or ligament strain in the back can cause localized pain, which might be perceived as nerve pain, especially if it involves the muscles close to the spine.
- Spondylosis: Degenerative changes in the spine can lead to nerve compression or irritation, resulting in one-sided back pain.
- Piriformis Syndrome: This condition involves the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve, leading to pain on one side of the back that radiates down the leg.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to severe pain, numbness, and potentially bladder and bowel dysfunction. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Spinal Infection (Abscess or Osteomyelitis): Infections in the spine can cause severe back pain and neurological deficits. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent serious complications.
- Spinal Tumor: Tumors in the spine can compress nerves, leading to pain and neurological symptoms. Although rare, missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
Rare Diagnoses
- Diabetic Amyotrophy: A condition associated with diabetes that causes severe pain, muscle weakness, and wasting, typically on one side of the body.
- Arachnoiditis: Inflammation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord, which can cause severe nerve pain and other neurological symptoms.
- Tarlov Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can compress nerves in the spine, leading to pain and neurological symptoms. They are relatively rare and often found incidentally.