Extreme neck, back and leg pain- mostly right leg but also pain and weakness in left leg. Weakness in both arms. Eye twitches, jaw numbness.

by Morgan Owen
(London, UK)

Ok, so I've been suffering from horrific pains as mentioned in the subject of question, my legs are extremely weak now especially my right leg it occasionally feels numb also. I'm constantly tired also. I'm wondering if it's linked to my back pains and maybe I've damaged a nerve in my upper and lower back - which is causing pain and weakness in arms and legs.

It started with bowel pains, they went away and then it was weakness in my right leg, then back pain occured and then my left leg also became weak and now my arms are also weak and now my nerves are being affected in my face, and recently now my fingers and wrists are hurting.

I've had these pains for a month now. I'm also becoming overheated alot and suffer from inflammation on back. I'm only 17 years old and physically active. Been to the doctors they've taken some blood tests and will get back to me but I'm seriously in so much pain I just need to know what's wrong with me.

The pain and weakness is progressing every day since is started. Please help.

Hello Morgan,
Frankly, I haven't a clue. When you have generalised pain like this, and particularly the weakness, then a careful and thorough medical check up is indicated. Go with your doctor's blood tests and advice at this stage. He's ruling out stuff, and will probably start with X-rays next. It's a step-by-step process. The question is: are all these pains one condition, or several separate conditions, each in themselves perhaps not so serious?

Later, if you feel they aren't getting anywhere, then, with your partents' consent obviously, perhaps an opinion from a thorough chiropractor is in order.

If constipation is part of the bowel pains then start eating foods high in soluble fibre. Fruit, salad and in particular the beetroot, apple and hummus.

Let me know how you get on.

Dr B