Low back pain, radiculopathy, and bilateral proximal hamstring ruptures: a case report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Pain Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition in the US, characterized by high incidence and recurrence rates.
• Diagnostic testing, opioid use, and surgical interventions for LBP are increasing.
• LBP typically involves structures in the lumbosacral region but can stem from less common pathologies.

Observation:

• Indolent or nighttime pain may indicate infectious or malignant processes.
• Referred pain from pelvic or abdominal injuries can present as LBP, particularly after trauma.
• Proximal hamstring tendon rupture is a rare cause of acute LBP, sometimes occurring with radiculopathy.

Findings:

• This case presents a diagnostic challenge where LBP, radiculopathy, and hamstring injury coexist.
• The study details a specific instance of this rare combination, emphasizing diagnostic complexity.
• Clinical presentation can be misleading, necessitating a broad differential diagnosis for LBP.

Implications:

• Recognizing rare causes of LBP, like hamstring rupture, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Considering referred pain patterns can aid in identifying non-spinal pathologies presenting as LBP.
• This case underscores the importance of a comprehensive evaluation for persistent or unusual LBP presentations.