Neck and Back Pain

There are many common causes of neck and back pain but one cause that is rarer but possible, is pain from complications with patients suffering from lupus. Lupus is an autoimmune disease, simply meaning a disease that is a result of the body attacking itself, creating autoantibodies, for no apparent reason. In the case of lupus, it is an inflammatory reaction that generally attacks the peripheral joints of the body as well as the soft tissues, blood, skin and kidneys. Because it can target muscles, it can affect the muscles near the spine, including neck musculature. The effect on these muscle groups can produce discomfort and fatigue. Generally, the back and neck are not affected by lupus, but it can occur. Typically, patients with lupus are treated with cortisone drugs that can weaken bones, including bones of the spine, therefore leading to a higher risk of a fracture of vertebra.

Conservative Care 

There are five different types of lupus and a patient may experience severe symptoms that affect internal organs and will require more aggressive medication while some people diagnosed with lupus will produce only mild symptoms. The medical community has begun researching more thoroughly the benefits of conservative care for treating lupus. For patients who exhibit mild symptoms, a physician may feel comfortable in advising the person to try supplements such as flaxseed and fish oil, both offering fatty acids, which may decrease the amount of inflammation from lupus. As these supplements may interfere with patients current medications, it is always advised to speak with a physician before beginning any new treatment.

References Cited in this Article

www.lupus.org

www.medicinenet.com

www.mayoclinic.com