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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Can A High Altitude Cause Herniated Discs Pain?

I have herniated discs in my Lumbar spine. I have experienced pain for the better part of 5 years, sometimes so debilitating i can t get out of bed. 29 yo F, 3 kids, 9 years in the Army. Moved to Colorado Springs, CO Oct 2008, pain started Jan 2009. I thought it was because I had another child (pregnant Jan-Sep 09). Anyway, on Friday, I drove 14 hours straight to San Antonio Texas for the weekend. I had ZERO pain upon arrival, even after the drive (I was in pain during the drive) and had zero pain all weekend. Could the high altitude be causing (or at least exacerbating) my symptoms and pain?
Mon, 25 May 2015
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Pathologist and Microbiologist,  's  Response
Hi I did review your concern.
High altitude generally does not aggravate lumbar disc prolapse symptoms. the pain of Lumbar disc herniation can occur at virtually any time and especially is aggravated when there is load on vertebra like lifting heaving objects. Spinal decompression can theoretically relieve pain but that requires massive changes in pressure which humanly livable altitude changes cannot cause practically.
I hope this helps.
Let me know if you have any more questions or concerns.
Wish you healthy and happy life ahead.
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Can A High Altitude Cause Herniated Discs Pain?

Hi I did review your concern. High altitude generally does not aggravate lumbar disc prolapse symptoms. the pain of Lumbar disc herniation can occur at virtually any time and especially is aggravated when there is load on vertebra like lifting heaving objects. Spinal decompression can theoretically relieve pain but that requires massive changes in pressure which humanly livable altitude changes cannot cause practically. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions or concerns. Wish you healthy and happy life ahead.