hello,

Thanks for writing to us. I am trying to solve your problem as per your concern.

Lower back pain is quite common features following a Caesarean section (done 7 weeks ago) and is due to effect of the epidural or spinal anesthesia. It may radiate from lower back region to buttock, medial aspect of thigh or pelvic region up to vagina. Associated vaginal /stress may aggravate this condition.

Here, I suggest you to consult with your gynecologist regarding this for complete physical examination including pelvic exam (with/ without speculum) to rule out underlying causative factor. Initial investigations like vaginal swab test and urine examination- routine & microscopic may need to be carried out. In addition, one x-ray of lumber region may be useful. In extreme cases, you should consult with orthopedic surgeon/ physiotherapist for complete recovery.

Following things are very much helpful in preventing above condition:

1) Take proper antibiotic therapy/ suppository to combat vaginal/ urinary infection. Maintain genital hygiene properly. Drink more water/ fluids & empty bladder in regular interval.
2) Maintaining good posture during breast feeding or sleeping is much essential. Avoid sleeping on soft mattress. Foam or air mattress is quite comfortable.
3) Use hot and cold bag alternatively. You can lie on a heating pad for half to one hour, then replace it with an ice pack. Taking a hot bath with epsom salts can give some relief from low back pain.
4) Gentle stretching the back muscles & pilates classes (way of exercise for good health) are quite good for low back pain following a C-section. They strengthen abdominal muscles and make easier in relief back pain.

In addition, yoga & pelvic tilts are very much helpful for lower back pain. Pelvic tilts means lying on your back with knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Tilt your tailbone toward belly button while keeping your hips on the floor in a subtle movement. At the top of the tilt, you tighten butt muscles & release after that . Repeat this exercise 10-15 times daily to get relief from back pain in great extent.
5) Take healthy diet with consuming more vegetables/ fruits and avoid spicy/ fatty food stuff.
6) Use some medication like muscle relaxant gel for local application, take calcium & methylcobalamin (vitamin B12) supplements.

I think that above information is much sufficient and useful to you. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help.

Wish your good health in future.

Regards,
Dr Soumen.

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Hello,

Thanks for follow up query.

For most women, back pain from a spinal anesthesia lasts only a few days & in extreme cases a few weeks.

Severity of back pain needs to be assessed by your treating doctor through proper physical & pelvic examination. Supportive therapy depends on underlying causative factors. In the mean time, you must follow all preventive measures, described in earlier reply.

If you do not have any clarifications, you can close the discussion and rate the answer.

Take care yourself and also for your baby.

Regards,
Dr Soumen.

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