@tconz - That's a good question. I lived with active NTM for a long time before learning what it was and getting treated. And my back ALWAYS hurt. The pulmonologist insisted they weren't related. Now, 5 years later, I can tell you that my PT explained that they are connected - but not how you might think.

Here is one way it can happen:
Think of a cough as a type of spasm. When you cough, many muscles are involved, and a chain reaction begins. Over time one or more can become irritated, and begin to hurt. Then your body protectively tightens up to minimize the pain, pulling even more muscles into the reaction. And your mind begins to tell you to stay still because your body hurts, tightening muscles even more. Eventually, you can have pain in strange places. Or, in my case, pain EVERYWHERE.

Another is through inactivity, if you feel unwell, fatigued, etc, you move less. Or you park in your recliner, where your posture is less than ideal. You may hold your pone or tablet for long periods, and muscles can tighten up.

A third is if you are prescribed an antibiotic regimen. Many carry a warning that side effects can include muscle aches and pain. In your own body the most vulnerable muscles will ache first. For me it was my arthritic hands, followed by my back, followed by... until I was a miserable lump.

Do any of these describe your situation? If so, we can have a conversation about some ways to deal with it.

Sue
PS One more - sitting with my nebulizer mouthpiece clamped in my jaw can still tighten my neck and upper back, even though I now know how to prevent it!

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