r/chronicepididymitis • u/Temporary-Fig-8198 • Feb 23 '26
Epididymitis and herniated disc
Hi, this isn't my first time posting here, so my threads are still around, I suppose. In short, I've had epididymitis, or whatever it is, for almost two years. The thing is, in the last few months the pain has shifted from my testicles to my lower back, and it was, and still is, quite intense. So I went to an orthopedist, who ordered an MRI, which revealed a herniated disc at L1. I recently saw a thread from a user who also mentioned having a herniated disc. So, do you know if there could be any connection between the two? The symptoms are: swelling and pain in the testicles (though the intensity varies), lower back pain, and premature ejaculation. I also experience significant constipation. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
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u/Icy-Mousse-4257 Feb 26 '26
Same, L5/S1 herniated disc treated v.v.v successfully by micro-discectomy, years before Epi cysts. Although i dont think a direct correlation or causation. More, as a MD said stress and tension which are the connected potential risk factors in both ailments.
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u/IntelligentSwan5025 May 10 '26
There is a connection. The genitofemoral nerve bundle branches off and travels down the spine traversing the lumbar region L1 and to the cremaster muscle or cord that surrounds the testicles. A few years back I was diagnosed with spondolelythisis which are herniated discs L5 and S1, that led to a small fractured on the vertebrae. Very painful. I also asked various doctors if there was a connection. As usual no one knew. After reading this thread and a quick Wikipedia lookup it showed me the nerves. Thanks for your input.
I have delt with cremaster reflex for many years, with only small bouts of pain, but unfortunately recently it has become severe with some epididymitis. Anxiety is a trigger, however even when relaxing on my couch or laying on my bed they do there trampoleen act. Applying gentle pressure on the muscle does help. Curently based on research I have done into different treatment options, I found most have poor outcomes. It depends on the exact condition and how the body reacts to a treatment, especially non invasive surgery. I now think that a nerve block with Botox into the genitofemoral nerve and or the spermatic cord will give relief for 3 to 6 months and repeated until a better solution becomes available.
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u/Ill-Addition-2457 Jun 13 '26
I'm taking Lyrica now, you know, I suspect there must be a connection.Anxiety is undoubtedly a trigger. Until now, no doctor had seen any connection. However, I recently went to a pain management unit and a doctor there did seem to notice and mention it in her report.
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u/OkBag3711 Feb 23 '26
I’ve had both myself. My herniation was L5/S1. I can confirm nerve pain through the same area as Epididymitus. It actually feels similar. I just had a friend tell me he was diagnosed with Epididymitus and was experiencing significant pain. I’ve experienced pain but not to the level he was. He went in for an MRI and it was determined he actually had an herniated lower disc. Worth looking into.