Patient Case Studies
Case 1:
A 40-year-old man presents with the following symptoms:
- Sudden onset of severe lower back pain after lifting a heavy object
- Pain that radiates down to the buttocks and thighs
- Stiffness in the lower back, making it difficult to bend or stand up straight
- Pain that worsens with movement, especially when twisting or bending
Additional notes: The patient reports no previous history of back problems and says the pain started suddenly while moving furniture.
Case 2:
A 52-year-old woman presents with the following symptoms:
- Sharp, shooting pain in the lower back that appeared after a long day of gardening
- Difficulty standing up straight due to intense pain
- Pain that is relieved slightly by lying down but intensifies when getting up
- Muscle spasms in the lower back area
Additional notes: She mentions that she has had similar episodes in the past, usually after physical activity, and the pain can last for several days.
Question: Based on the provided symptoms and patient histories, what is the most likely diagnosis?
About the Author
Reyus Mammadli is the author of this health blog since 2008. With a background in medical and biotechnical devices, he has over 15 years of experience working with medical literature and expert guidelines from WHO, CDC, Mayo Clinic, and others. His goal is to present clear, accurate health information for everyday readers — not as a substitute for medical advice.
