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A member asked:
My hus is an intravenous drug user and just started getting sharp stabbing back pain that is going to his legs as well. what can this be caused from?
5 doctors weighed in across 5 answers
Oh no: several answers, could be a problem related to his spine such as infection that is causing pressure on the nerves going to his legs. Please report to ER promptly before this gets worse. Take care of hus
Answered 8/6/2014
3.8k views
See a doctor: Given his history, I would consult a physician to exclude other causes but pain radiating to the leg is usually from spinal/ lower back problems.
Answered 8/6/2014
3.8k views
Back pains: Back pains radiating to the leg usually is due to an intervertebral disc pressing on a nerve root but generally it radiates into one leg. I can't relate the symptoms to iv drug use. A neurosurgeon,neurologist or orthopedic surgeon could evaluate him and order the appropriate tests.
Answered 8/6/2014
3.8k views
MAJOR PROBLEMS...: Among the many possible concerns, I am worried that he may have an infection of his spine that could be directly related to the IV drug use. Even though there are other possibilities, this acute onset back pain without an injury and with this IV drug use history is EXTREMELY WORRISOME and he needs to go to an ER ASAP for evaluation and treatment. Please make this happen.
Answered 8/6/2014
3.8k views
An emergency: This history strongly suggests a septic disci tis or epidural abscess. These are medical emergencies. Go to an ER now.
Answered 8/6/2014
3.8k views
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