 Do you experience mysterious lumps or painful spots on your lower back that seem to come and go? You might be dealing with a condition known as “back mice” or episacral lipomas. While not widely known, these small fatty nodules can cause significant discomfort and frustration for those affected. In this post, we’ll delve into what back mice are, their symptoms, potential causes, and how they can be managed. What are Back Mice? Back mice, medically referred to as episacral lipomas, are small, tender nodules that typically develop in the lower back, just above the buttocks. They are composed of fatty tissue and are often found in the area between the skin and the underlying muscle tissue. These nodules can vary in size and may feel firm or rubbery to the touch.  Image of Back Mice on MRI. This condition can be diagnosed clinically. These “back mice” can be seen on ultrasound and MRI but imaging is typically not required for the diagnosis of this condition. Image reproduced courtesy of Nolan Walker, Radiopedia Symptoms of Back Mice
Individuals with back mice typically present with a very localized back pain that is worse with the application of pressure. This pain is associated with a rubbery and smooth lump that may be felt with deep palpation. In some cases, this pain may radiate outwards into the lower back, hips or buttocks. Potential Causes The exact cause of back mice is not fully understood. However, it is currently believed that these lipomas occur as a result of trauma or injury to the tissues in the lower back. The trauma may be due to repetitive strain injury (such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting) but could also occur after an event such as a road traffic accident. Additionally, poor posture may also play a role in their formation. I have been diagnosed with this Back Mice. Is this serious? While back mice can be bothersome, they are typically not a serious medical concern. However, if you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations. Strategies to manage Back Mice Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help alleviate discomfort associated with back mice. Heat Therapy: Applying heat packs or warm compresses to the affected area can help relax tight muscles and alleviate pain. Gentle Stretching: Engaging in gentle stretching exercises for the lower back and hips may help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles surrounding the nodules. Posture Correction: Maintaining good posture and avoiding activities that place excessive strain on the lower back can help prevent further irritation of the back mice. Medical Intervention: In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend more advanced treatments, such as injections. Sometimes, surgery may also help with reducing symptoms related to back mice. Back mice, or episacral lipomas, can be a source of discomfort and frustration for those affected. While the exact cause of these fatty nodules is not fully understood, they are believed to develop as a result of trauma or injury to the tissues in the lower back. By understanding the symptoms and potential causes of back mice, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you are experiencing persistent or severe pain, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment. Dr Christopher Liu is a Pain Specialist from Singapore. For more information, visit www.drchristopherliu.com Comments are closed.
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Dr Christopher Liu is a Pain Specialist from Singapore. He has more than 15 years of experience in successfully treating Chronic Pain conditions. He employs any one of a number of specialist interventions - from analgesic medications to minimally invasive procedures and physiotherapy. Whether your pain is musculoskeletal, neuropathic or any other, Dr Christopher Liu can help you to determine the cause of your pain. He can also outline a strategy that can help you to get better and return to your usual activities.
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