Background: I have some mild chronic pain on the right side of my body. It started in my hip joint years ago. Nothing really bad, but it would cause me to always be cracking that joint. It has slowly increased to the point where it's never not in pain, but still mild. Eventually I started to have some pain in my right leg and sometimes foot, but part of me thinks this is from a long time of compensating for the hip in my sitting and standing.
My right arm/shoulder/hand also have constant mild pain, but honestly I think that's from a poor computer/mouse setup at work for however many years.
Now, as of a few months ago, I have a spot in the right middle of my back that has been bothering me. Same thing, mild and constant. It is making my very uncomfortable while sitting, standing, everything. I can't imagine feeling this way every day for the rest of my life. I am at the end of my rope.
1. So what do I do about it? I am willing to go see someone about it, but where do I start? Do I go see my regular doctor? A chiropractor? Just go get a massage to work out the kink in my back? Someone else? I honestly don't know who to call first.
For a long time I ignored it because I figured it was normal and everyone has small pains they have to deal with. Ya know, I would say to myself maybe it was just from sleeping wrong or being overweight. But now I am losing weight and it is getting worse.
2. Do any of you have similar chronic pains? Is this normal and something I should just deal with? Am I being a pansy?
Re: could I have some advice? re: pain/doctor
Personally I would start with a primary care physician and then go to a specialist or chiropractor from there. I realize your decision may be influenced by your health insurance but IMO the primary care physician is the first step.
I have chronic back pain due to a couple of injuries and a car accident and I have to admit I haven't pursued it with my doctor since I moved so much. I probably should but I've seen a huge improvement since we got our new bed.
I did have bursitis (sp?) in my hip (and the pain was similar to what you described) when I was about 18 and my primary care physician was able to prescribe something for the inflammation and then recommend ways to prevent it in the future. I've had a flare or two here or there but other than that it doesn't bother me anymore.
When it comes to my health and possible medical conditions, I'd rather be safe than sorry. If you want to see a chiro, go ahead, but I'd also see a real doctor and let them start eliminating other possibilities. Hope you feel better soon.
ETA: by real doctor I mean medical doctor