Fibromyalgia and bulge in lower spine

[Lilyput123]

Hi,having suffered for decades with fibromyalgia I was sent for an MRI scan because of the excruciating pain in both my legs,the scan revealed a bulge in my lower spine to which my doctor explained that it was probably the fibromyalgia causing the pain,with that he increased my Gabapentin to 900mg at night and 600mg morning and afternoon,I’m at a loss as to what a bulge in the spine means! can anyone help! Thankyou.

[Blue-52]

I am wondering if they mean a disc is bulging, but if that is the case, they should refer you, not just blame fm and up your meds. I would ask more questions.

Good luck.

[Dizzytwo Moderator]

Hi there, I have the same problems in my lower spine. And while some disc problems may not cause pain a lot do. And no its not fibro pain its disc pain. And it can get serious for some people. So please be aware if symtoms get worse.Call 999 or go to A&E if you have back pain and:

numbness around your bottom or genitals

cannot pee

lose feeling in 1 or both legs

cannot control when you pee or poo or

got it after a serious accident.

Please dont be worried just be aware it is probly nothing and OTC pain meds could be all you need and some rest till the pain eases xx

Momo

[CM1EDSUK]

I agree with Blue-52 - that this sounds like protrusion of a disk between 2 of your lumbar vertebrae, & whilst it may occur in someone with fibromyalgia, it won't be due to fibro.

There's a short video below explaining this disk protrusion or herniation together with some positions that you may find helpful, & some simple physio exercises to try so long as they don't worsen your pain (do try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs if you find this position comfortable). Please scroll down to the 2nd video which mentions a herniated disc: nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/s...

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

As others have said, they may be referring to a bulging disc - but this has got nothing to do with your fibromyalgia (although having fibromyalgia could increase any pain being felt from the bulge)

[Lilyput123 in reply to Hazel_Angelstar]

Thankyou all for you’re helpful advice x

[Maud-ie]

I keep banging on BUT after waaaay too many decades of fibro I was diagnosed with Ankylosing Spondylitis - a majorly under diagnosed problem especially in women. Not until I had an MRI recently (one of many over the years) did the chronic, widespread spinal damage show up. I only got the last MRI due to mild faecal incontinence.