Q: We have a family member that has extreme pain in their back.  They are always depressed always screaming and yelling and is never happy.  Their always hold grudges.  Does this cause their back
to hurt more. How can the rest of the family get them help and the family member help.  The household
is very unhappy and can’t go a day without screaming and yelling going on.

Dr. Joshua Answers:

A: This type of situation needs a holistic approach - from a medical point of view, the following are the steps that can be taken in order to resolve the situation:

1. A consultation with a back specialist and/or a spinal surgeon, along with whatever imaging is needed (usually MRI)

2. Possible rehabilitative / surgical intervention if available, according to specialists’ recommendations

3. If no specific treatment is available, a consultation with a pain specialist is recommended

4. A psychiatrist needs to be consulted if chronic pain is causing mood swings or family trouble

5. Family therapy may be needed to resolve conflicts that have developed

Please note that this is generalized information that is usually valid in the described situation, but may vary depending on the specifics of each case. Please consult your own primary care physician first, if unsure of the steps you need to take.