What is this pain in my back?

I am getting this really sharp, nerve-like pain in my lower back.

It is kinda like in my upper butt area. It is to the left of my lower spine. It feels like someone is stabbing knives into my skin. The area around it is very sore also...and DH said that it looks like there is some bruising there also.

I have arthritis in my L4 and L5 ..... can they be related?

Also, I've had the same pain before, but it is BAD tonight. Normally it comes and goes quickly.

Re: What is this pain in my back?

I'm sorry you are in pain.

I am fused at my L4-5 and I woke up with something similar (though mine comes and goes all the time). Is it very humid or raining by you? This happens during these times for me. Also, did you sleep on that side all night? This is my problem if I am very tired and I just pass out and stay that way.

Some dry heat will help. Walgreens sells dry heating pads. I can't live without mine. Moist heat is not the best for that. HTH! Feel better!

Re: What is this pain in my back?

Does it radiate down your leg at all? It could be sciatica or some other pinched nerve. An oral steroid may help. My pain is terribly worse when it's going to rain, so that could be why you felt it was worse last night.

Re: What is this pain in my back?

I have back spasms and it sounds similar to what you are experiencing. I get stabbing pains that move to different places in my back and they go away after some "happy pills" and a couple of hours.
I would definitely have your doctor schedule and MRI for you.