The Link Between Back Pain & Breast Cancer
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Most people are aware of some of the more common symptoms of breast cancer, but did you know that the condition sometimes presents symptoms in your spine? Today, we take a closer look at the link between spine pain and the development of breast cancer.
The Sacrum Bone and Breast Cancer
Late last week it was announced that Olivia Newton-John’s breast cancer has returned and spread to her back. Newton-John was originally treated for breast cancer back in 1992, and the cancer was successfully treated and she continued to perform for more than two decades. However, Newton-John was recently plagued by back pain that she thought was due to sciatica, but it turns out her breast cancer had returned and metastasized in her sacrum.
Your sacrum bone is that large wedge-shaped bone that sits at the bottom of your back. It forms the base of the spinal column and it connects with the hip bones to form your pelvis. It is integral to the integrity of your back, because it is one of the strongest bones in your body as it helps support the weight of your torso.
Although cancer that is contained to the breast region will not typically result in back pain, one of the more common places for breast cancer to metastasize is in your spinal column. So if you are at risk for breast cancer or you are in remission, and you are dealing with an onset of back pain, head into a doctor’s office for a check up. Spinal tumors are one condition that can be treated with spinal surgery in order to preserve the integrity of your spinal canal.
Newton-John’s Outlook
Treating a dual case of cancer can be tricky, but it appears that Newton-John is ready to face the battle head on. Her team released a statement shortly after she was diagnosed with back and breast cancer.
“The back pain that initially caused her to postpone the first half of her concert tour, has turned out to be breast cancer that has metastasized to the sacrum,” the statement read. “In addition to natural wellness therapies, Olivia will complete a short course of photon radiation therapy and is confident she will be back later in the year, better than ever, to celebrate her shows.”
Here’s hoping she gets the best treatment for her dual diagnosis. She has been a staunch advocate for cancer research, and hopefully more people will become aware of the link between spine pain and metastasized breast cancer and some good can come out of her fight. Wishing her all the best in her fight.
