Question:
Doctor says my back pain/leg weakness is from LOSING weight??

I've had severe back problems since I was a child. Right after surgery for about 2-3 months my pain was much improved. In the last 2-3 months though, I've had more pain but mostly a lot of weakness in my legs. I've had my labs done and although I'm a bit anemic, everything else is perfect. My orthopedic surgeon has told me that losing so much weight so fast can cause a strain on the back, too, and that he expects it to level off once my weight has stabalized. If it doesn't, then he'll send me to a neurologist in a few months. This seems like an easy answer to me. I had back pain and had weight loss surgery to alleviate it, so why would it be worse? Has anyone had this happen to them and did it improve when you weight leveled off? Should I go see a neurologist now?    — cjabates (posted on November 13, 2002)

November 13, 2002
Hi there, I was told by my PCP that the problem is my saggy boobs and tummy. I have an appt. on the 18th with a plastic surgeon. Good luck Sarah
   — sarah C.

November 13, 2002
I get this pain between my shoulder blades in my back most days now. It started about a month ago and as the day goes on, I really feel it, but don't wake up with it. I'm convinced its the weight loss-the body hasn't compensated yet for such a rapid redistribution of body mechanics. I would suggest that you go to a physical therapist to get the proper exercises to increase the muscle strength in the areas that you are hurting in. Also, try yoga. Its not strenuous yet it really works to increase muscle strength for the entire body. I'm convinced that if I had kept up the yoga I wouldn't be feeling this pain now.
   — Cindy R.

November 13, 2002
I too was having pings and pangs after surgery. I asked my doctor if he thought it was due to the rapid weight loss and the body's readjustment. He did not think so. I noticed that when I was on my feet for a long period of time my legs and feet would KILL ME. I continued to exercise and eat right, and no longer have those pains. I think that it was in fact my bones and muscles taking a breather from all the compression and stress they had endured.
   — Kisha G.