The Knowledge Board:
Back Pain
Four out of five adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives but understanding and appreciation of the condition is poor.
But along with the pain goes many a wide range of lifestyle challenges. It is the patient experience of back pain which we wish to explore in the blog?
- What were your first experiences of back pain and how were you diagnosed?
- What treatments were you offered and how successful do you think they have been?
- What effect has back pain had on your working and social lives? Do you feel there is any stigma attached to the condition?
- What did you find were the best sources of advice about back pain?
- Do you have any web sites you would recommend for other people in your situation?
These questions are only a guide and so please feel free to bring up any other issues that you consider are relevant to you. To Leave a comment simply click on the Leave Comment link below.
Belinda Moderator
17 June 2008
Thanks very much in advance for your help. Remember, a blog is really like having a conversation with lots of people at the same time and so please check back on the blog to see what others have said so that if you feel like adding to their thoughts you can. It's a conversation and a chance to learn and share!If you need more information on this or any other issues please feel free to get in touch with me at belinda.shale@healthcarelandscape.com
Oonagh
18 June 2008
I have had back pain for at least fifteen years due to an operation that I had done which was nothing to do with my back. I was given Tramadol for the pain which does really help it doesn't take the pain away but it certainly eases it
Stacey Klein
18 June 2008
I first started having real back pain following my stroke in 2005. When I was able to walk with just a cane or indoors without one, I first-off, tire easily. Secondly, my back in the middle and lower right quadrant ache ansd stop me from walking.
I know it's after affects from the stroke. I have sciatica on the lower right side, as well, so this does not help. If I rest a bit, I'm better and can walk a while again
That's about it for now.
Stacey
jacqui
19 June 2008
i have had 3 falls onto my back in the last 15 years the last 2 were really painful 1 was down onto escalator steps of which i couldnt get up and sufferred for weeks after. the most recent was last friday when i fell down a flight of 6 steps bruising my back and arm badly. i have sufferred pain throughoout these years and all i am given is pain killers.the pain is so bad sometimes i find it hard to walk distance, or even get a good nights sleep,sitting down for a time also hurts. But pain killers are always given when i visit my doctor and that seems to be it.
Liz
19 June 2008
I am an advocate of Chiropracters, I have had back problems, and neck and hip!, and since visiting a chiropracter I am so much better.
If they cannot help you with your complaint they usually tell you when you ring to make the initial appointment.
Josh
14 July 2008
Hey, I read what you said about your falls and how all you get are pain killers when you visit the doctor, so I figured you may benefit off of visiting this website of this doctor in Ohio. Appearantly he developed some procedure which significantly helps backs, http://www.riverviewhealthinstitute.com/laser.htm
let me know if you feel like it could help, it helped me!
Belinda Moderator
14 July 2008
Hi Josh
Thanks for the post
Can you tell us a bit more about the treatment and how it helped you?
Best wishes
Belinda
Josh
14 July 2008
Well, the treatment is coined as "minimally invasive," and it treats herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degernative disc disease.
The doc made a tiny incision in the tailbone which is what separates it from conventional, open back surgery. I was put under "twilight anesthetic," and consequently was able to go home the very same day!
Feel free to ask me any more questions as I am a total advocate of this procedure becuase I honestly feel it separates itself from any other procedure I had ever looked into
Val
20 June 2008
I have had a back problem for over 38 years now, and have to take Co-dipar tablets for it. As I am also asthmatic I cannot take all kinds of painkillers, but I cope really well with the above. My doctor has sent me toPhysio before to help ease the pain, but I am afraid it doesn't get rid of it completely, so I have learned to live with it.
Tony Red
09 July 2008
I can't imagine suffering with back pain for 38 years!!! That's crazy! Have you heard about M3D therapy? You should try to find a doctor who uses Extentrac Elite.
Elaine
21 June 2008
Back pain drives me nuts it is always there has been for about 20 years since I had a car accident. I find if I sleep on a ordinary bed I can't move for at least 2 hours in the morning so a water bed works for me. There are some days worse than others on the worse days I take pain killers on the not so bad days I get on with life. I am allergic to asprin and a number or other of the pills and potions so most of the anti inflamitries are no good for me. So it is learn to live with it I went to a pain clinic they gave me a lot of tricks to minimise the pain ppoints and they do work. The most I can do is live with it the same as everyone else I don't think there will ever be a cure for this.
Josh
14 July 2008
Hello Elaine,
I read your coments about your back apin and you believing that the most you can do is live with it the same as everyone else, and I just wanted to point you in the direction of this website for the procedure that I've recently become aware of as I believe it may actually be the answer you've been looking for...
http://www.riverviewhealthinstitute.com/laser.htm
let me know if you feel like it could help, it helped me!
sandra
23 June 2008
I have had back pain for over 10 years, I have had 2 ops on my knees and going in for my 3rd in 6 weeks, i suffer quite bad as a result of leaning to one side when knee is bad, when I was younger I did a roller boot chain, and I was let go of and i kicked myself in the bottom of the back with the roller boots, was very very painful, but when ever I have had x-rays they say my back is clear !!
The pain can be so un-bearable
gill
25 June 2008
although I have suffered from back pain for around twenty years now. I have visited my doctor only once and as usual everything I have or get is down to my weight, although my last dizzy spells he contributed to my age (55). Whislt I don't believe I am a total wreck I would like to have something medical and not this. So I don't go the doctor other than my six pregnancies etc I have been four times since 1974. I do suffer from backpain which does not restrict me but I have to manage it. eg I take groups of children backpacking and a slow pace to me is like standing for a long time-painful so I then have to push my back for several minutes against a tree to aleviate it-the kids understand- adults don't though. I have tried self remedies- those heat bands, ralgex etc and I still do have to lose some weight but the back pain doesn't go away.
Phil
30 June 2008
I have had back pain since I was at school but them it was only intermittent haxing really bad spells once in a while that lasted minutes as long as I rested. As I got older it got worse if I sat for long periods it made my legs ache. I had a fall at work in 1998 and after that it went downhill. My GP tried me on lots of different medication and I found I could not take ante imflamitries. Eventually was diagnoised with sciatica and was put on tramodol. I have to take the 200mg sr tramdol twice daily if I forget to take one or take it late my legs ache and the ache drains all my energy and everything is an effort. I never know when it is going to be really bad. Last year I had a period that was so painful it was dificult to sleep stand sit and it all started by bending down to tie my shoe lace. It is still ongoing and I try to work through the pain with no thanks from my employer at how difficult it was to just go to work. I have asked my GP for a MRI scan but no luck yet. I have had injections into the spine and physio the relief is only temporary. Like every person on this blog you learn to deal with it even through the worst times.
Janine
01 July 2008
Hi, I have been experiencing back pain for only 7 months but this has been the longest 7 months of my life. I had a ct scan which showed slight disc bulge very minor. After physio, remedial massage and osteopath i asked dr for mri and it showed annular tears at L4-L5 and L5-S1 as well as a tarlov cyst at S2 ( this cyst is only 1.9 cm and can be asymptomatic or symptomatic).Originally I constantly had spasms down my legs,lower back and stomache and was unable to move. Now I always have a dull ache and sometimes spasms either in my left hand side buttocks or lower back.These are painful but the aftermath is horrible I feel like I am nursing the site for several weeks. Currently I am having acupuncture to try and heal muself. But do annular tears ever heal properly? I use to be active and run 5km 3 times a week and participate in 10km fun runs. Sometimes i feel that I will never be ok. I am limited to what I can do I don't walk or swim ( tried this and caused another spasm) can't play with my kids such as ball games. Should I just rest? I have appointment with a specialist in amonths time, but I need to survive until then. Some days I think today is a good day and I can put up with the dull aches, but other days I think what have I done that has caused the pain to return. There seems to be no rhyme or reason. Has anybody else had annular tears, I read they can take up to 12-18 months to heal. Any response would be great. Thanks Janine
Linda
05 July 2008
Hi
I have suffered with back pain for over 12 years, I had an X-ray which showed that the base of my spine was slowly crumbling due to arthritis, which I also have in other parts of my body, I take co-drydomol tablets for the pain and they do help in easing the pain. In the last month I have been having acupuncture and a deep penetrating massage on my back and it has really helped, I feel so much better, the only trouble is, it is so expensive £260 for 10 sessions, I just can't afford to have any more sessions, pity we can't get them on the NHS as they certainly do help.
Judy
06 July 2008
Hi,
I've had a bad back for nearly twenty years. Not much helps but I have to agree with Linda, acupuncture really eased the pain for a few months. It is expensive but I got mine on the NHS. It may be worth you asking your GP, I'm not sure about deep massage but again if it works its worth ask. Hope you get some help off them.
Judy
The Mighty Pumpkin
17 June 2008
I was diagnosed when I ricked my back.
I was signed off work three years ago and it has been terrible.
Sleeping is hard and my family show no sympathy. They balem me for being 19 stone.
Sharon
19 June 2008
I can relate to as im 26 stone and i have been on every diet possible but no luck in keeping it of me. I have arthritus in my spine and osteoarthritus in many joints now and have very little mobilty and i take tramodol
dave c
24 June 2008
what is 19 stone and 20 stone ????
Marie
19 June 2008
I know what you mean. I broke my back in 1996 and because I was super-fit at the time it wasn't diagnosed for 6 weeks by which time the problem waas permanent. Like you I put on a lot of weight and it is realy hard to get it off again. As you say people blame you for not controlling your eating etc., but very often it is the medication which does it. You can also develope food sensitivities which cause weight gain, all because your system is out of balance.
I know it is easy to say and hard to do but just try to understand that your familly think that you need pushing when what you realy need is encouragement.
Find a local disabled swimming group. They will understand and the exercise will make you feel a lot better in yourself. If you can't swim find something you can do. Then maybe your familly will realise that you are trying and start to help rather than criticise.
ski1967
18 June 2008
I was first diagnosed in 1998 with severe Cyatica (most painful and unpleasant)
Since then I have had a discectomy and a double spinal fusion, which has caused major problems in my life. The main one being problems with bowel and bladder control.
The medication I am taking also causes other problems in that I am constantly in pain when going to the toilet. I am not allowed to drive either.
I am currently in ongoing treatment in a pain clinic, I recieve injections once a month directly into the spine.
This condition is not a laughing matter, as some seem to think, just because it connot be seen some tend to doubt. It also causes major problems in my sex life.
David
24 June 2008
I have found the e-cell to be very helpful for sciatica. Got rid of mine in 3months that I had for years. It sends a signal to the cells to 'wake up' and get on with the job of healing. I got it at
www.e-cell.com.au They send them all over the world.
David
Belinda Moderator
18 June 2008
Many Thanks for yours comments, can I ask how you found the process of diagnosis?
Anne Bellis
18 June 2008
I am 55 not 555 though I feel it!!
I went through a long process at diagnosis stage as I went to 4 consultants privatel and had MRI scans done privately. HSA contributed towards some of that but we paid quite a lot ourselves as I was in such pain. I was also diagnosed with scoleosis and extreme spinal degeneration. I could not believe I needed spinal fusion and only one out of the 4 consultants said I shouldn't go through the process as it would put strain on discs higher up. I even went to a Mr Natali at The Cromwell Hospital in London as he wrote an article about something less invasive. I was in such pain that I had to go through the procedure. I found that although I went initially privately I was able to then use NHS( This was in 2000/2001) I suppose the whole process was pretty comprehensive but I was never really advised that this procedure although dealing with the acute problems would not solve the back problem and although I managed to return to work for some time chronic pain forced me to retire on ill health grounds.
karen
20 June 2008
I am 43, and had a spinal fusion and disc removed 5 years ago.i wasnt really told much about what would happen afterwards, but i had no choice but to have surgery as i had a trapped nerve and could no longer use my right arm.
i have had constant pain since, and now the disc above the surgery is bulging, due to wear because of the fusion.my surgeon says more ops would be too risky, so i am destined to live with the pain, lack of sleep etc.i havent been able to work for many years now, and feel i am on the scrap heap already.i have had steroid injections, physio, tablets etc, but nothing really works.
anne
18 June 2008
I have suffered from back paince since 2000. I have had spinal fusion and discectomy and have had to confine medication to co-codamol as most of the stronger medication has given me stomach problems. I have been to pain clinics, had steroid injections, lidocaine infusions, seen chairopracters, osteopaths, cranial sacro therapists, reflexologists, reiki, homeopath, acupuncture, etc etc. In fact I coould do a survey for you on alternative medicines and treatments as I have had a go at everything possible! I am now retired on ill health grounds an of course all these alternatives cost money so I am no longer able to do them.I feel abandoned by NHS and can't be bothered any more as I have also developed fibromyalgia. The only constant help is my tens machine which a physiotherapist set on an acupuncture setting and steam room and jacuzzi at health club. I feel ashamed that at 555 I can't work and everything we do as a family has to be considered and planned and I certainly feel on the edge of the world! But I haven't got cancer and I can pace myself so if I could afford massages and some alternative treatments life would be a bit more enjoyable. Glucosamine suppliments are wonderful too.
amanda
18 June 2008
I'm disabled and cannot walk so i crawl alot of the time. I use the internet reguarly and have to lean up to see the screen as i am quite short. This can be a problem for me.
jonboy
19 June 2008
It is possible to connect two screens to a cpu so that you could use a screen mounted in a lower position.
hope this is useful to you.
Gill Wrenn
18 June 2008
I have suffered on and off with back pain over the last few years and have been diagnosed with sciatica. The first few times I went to the doctor the pain relief he adminstered seemed to cure the problem, until the next time. Finally last November, he suggested that I have acupuncture with a colleague. I approached the first session with trepidation, thinking that having needles stuck in me wasn't a good thing. But to my surprise it was great. I hardly felt the needles going in (apart from the very odd one or two). The treatment has helped my back considerably, but I am still going as I hurt my achilles heel on New Year's Eve (being silly!!!) and obviously walking oddly to take the weight off of my foot has resulted in other areas of my back hurting. I am now having a course of phsiotherapy as well which are all helping to combat the pain effects. I still get some back pain, but can honestly say that even though I am still taking one strong painkiller at the moment, I do not need to 'top up' with the other one prescribed. Hopefully soon I will be able to cut down on the painkiller and get back to fairly normal. We like in hope!!
Susijen
18 June 2008
If you have back problems you're really up against it!
My back problems started when I had a car accident in 1996. The pain covers my upper back from the base of my skull to the bottom of my ribs. It causes severe headaches, pain down my arms into my hands and affects everything I do. I have to be very careful how I move about so as not to exacerbate the pain.
Although seen by two Orthopedic Consultants in my home town of Preston, I was never given a diagnosis as no Xrays or scans showed anything that would cause the pain. The consultants (one from Liverpool and one from Preston) who wrote my medical reports made me out to be a liar and a fraud in my insurance claim. Both these doctors are working within the NHS.
Still with no diagnosis, my GP started to say there was nothing he could do for me so I stopped going to see him and struggled on, unable to work.
Things came to a head two years ago when a DWP doctor decided after half an hour that I was fit for work!
I chose this point to change my GP who immediately told me that the injury I'd suffered was common in women who have car accidents. No specialist had ever told me this and it gave me a sense of relief that I wasn't some freak who was imagining her symptoms! My new GP sent me from one specialist to another and I finally had a bone scan which showed no physical damage.
12 years after the car accident I have finally been diagnosed as suffering from fybromyalgia. I will spend the rest of my life campaigning for it's recognition both within the medical profession and elsewhere.
The symptoms often make life unbearable and it's time the medical profession recognised this.
The only relief I have ever received is from treatment by a Cranial Osteopath. This hasn't been a cure for me only temporary relief but who knows it could be more permanent for someone else.
For a registered osteopath near you go to http://www.osteopathy.org.uk/
If you live in NW England go to www.kendalhouse.co.uk
Belinda Moderator
18 June 2008
Thank you very much for the links thats very usefull indeed.
George
18 June 2008
I am a diabetic - in Dec 06 I had a trapped nerve in my right shoulder it transpires due to Diabetes my joints are prematurely arthritic. My GP and Physio both said exercise, I did - then the pain got worse in to my back, legs arms with sciatica etc, then to compound it while swimming I got tendonitis in the right hand and arm and it is now showing up in my left hand as I compensate. I can't therefor exercise as any form of such either annoys the tendonitis or causes the right shoulder to become suspect again. Yes, I get no family sympathy and the DWP/ DLA ignore my plight. !!!! Marvelous eh?
Susijen
18 June 2008
Get a letter to your MP and also to the Minister in charge of the DWP
who is currently James Purnell. His address is Department for Work and
Pensions, Caxton House, Tothill Street, London, SW1H 9DA. The more of us
he hears from, the more chance there is that the system will get a shake up.
My theory is that the government are so desperate to get the benefit
numbers down that they will do anything and soft targets like ourselves,
who have difficulty proving our conditions, are the first to go.
Good Luck!
ski1967
18 June 2008
My diagnosis was pretty long in that I had to wait 3 months for my first X-ray and 18 months for my MRI scan to finally prove that I had a valid and serious complaint.
ski1967
18 June 2008
I also take tramadol as well as Gabapentin and di-hydracodine, on top of this I also take Amytriptalene. I have recently asked for my medication to be reviewed as this combination of painkillers does not suit me well.
Barbara
18 June 2008
Hi there I started suffering from back pain about 15 years ago and was always told just to rest and take anti-inflamitory medication. This worked on and off but this problem made my life unbearable at times. I also suffered very bad PMT and Migraines which my GP could never get to the bottom off. In the last two years I have had 4 Microdisectomy Operations, Spinal Injections, Acupuncture and lots of different pain meds but I am still in extreme pain. I am now registered disabled as walking distances is very difficult as is sitting or standing for long periods. I have also been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia which is infuriating as if diagnosed all they years ago it may have stopped me having a Hystorectomy at such a young age (30) which I had due to severe PMT. I am now 40 but feel about ninety and my life as I knew it is over, I am reliant on my family and friends to get out and about. I am still working but only part-time and I will do so as long as I can as it is the only thing that is keeping me going. Some days I feel like ending it all but then I remember my family and what I mean to them. I have a very loving and supportive husband, 2 daughters and various other family and friends who really are lifesavers to me. Maybe one day things will improve I can only hope.
Pamela Butler
18 June 2008
I started with back pain when in my 30's. Am now 58 and still suffer.At first I paid privately for physio but was then refered to hosp for back splints. They were ok when pain at its worst, but limit movement dramatically. Then offered injections into the joints. I have Arthritis in 4 facet joints at the base of my spine. The relief was amazing. Had them done twice, but now told they are no longer available. There is a stigmato having back pain, as anyone can say they have it andit is hard to prove or disproved and is a popular way of getting time off work. It has rarely stopped me working and I do have long periods where it hardly bothers me at all.
Belinda Moderator
18 June 2008
Many Thanks For all your comments
Community assigned karma score: 0 by 0
Ian
20 June 2008
Pamela wrote
"There is a stigmato having back pain, as anyone can say they have it andit is hard to prove or disproved and is a popular way of getting time off work"
You're right Pamela, the fact that it is difficult to disprove back pain seems to have coloured a lot of peoples' views including some who should know better, like GPs. Because there can be a number of reasons for the pain, not everbody gets the same symptoms in the same circumstances. With spinal stenosis, for example, I get all the bits like pain on standing and walking. However, bending forward brings a lot of relief - but if I can bend over I "must be faking back probs". Others are in real pain just by bending forward over the sink - maybe through a bulging disk = a completely different diagnosis. I wonder if we should try to avoid "back pain" as a word - it doesn't say what's wrong and is a catch-all. Bit like going to the GP and saying I have a sore throat and the GP telling me that I have laryngitis (which means a sore throat) - I want to say (and have said) "I've just told you that! Tell me something I don't know!". I have found that a diagnosis of the real structural problem rather than a symtom seems to work better with the cynics. Tell them you have foraminal compression and they shut up - whereas sciatica is just greeted with a nod and knowing smile. We seem to be caught in a hard place. Docotors tend to work on the basis of starting with a simple diagnosis and treatment, and only upping the investigations/interventions when there is no success. This makes it hard to get a quick diagnosis - because MRI's cost money and don't always show anything. Meanwhile, like Barbara says above, you are in limbo and begin to despair - that's when the pain, the stigma and the hopeless feelings kick in.
Thanks everbody for telling your stories.
Ian
kgangel
18 June 2008
Hi,
To answer your questions on back pain. I had a car accident in 85. Then I worked in therapy and helped patients get in and out of bed. So, it was a fact with me that the back and neck pain got worse over the years and stared with accident, then got worse working physical work like that w/o much knowledge on body mech. when lifting and working.
I did have cervical surgery when the pain and pressure got so bad, which did help, now 8 years since the surgery , the pain is back and worse. I have 2 discs pressing on the spinal cord and one collapsed disc. So they are going to be doing surgery again
The things they have tried are, PT, Chiro, Injections , massage and meds. Some helped for a bit, but none have worked for a long time relief.
I really do not have a best sourse, I have just tried to belong to groups that are motivational and uplifting to help me get through the pain
My favorite group is in Rest Ministry. They have a variety of groups to belong to w/i the site all are very helpful.
blessings
kgangel
Peter Coates
19 June 2008
Although in my eightieth year, I do not suffer from back pain, but I sympathize with those who are less fortunate in this respect than I. I cannot account for my good fortune, as I can think of nothing in my past life which may have contributed to my freedom from this distressing scourge. I was a squash player until my late fifties, but I have never put my back under unusual stress. I remain upright for my age and can only suggest that I was fortunate in inheriting healthy genes.
Michael
19 June 2008
Hi, I have had back pain for many years but it was only in the last 8 years that it started to be painful most of the time. For the last three years I have been unable to get in or out of the bath. I have been diagnosed with arthritis and up until now I only take paracetamol 4 times a day. I could get stronger tablets but I am worried that if I start taking them now I will become used to them. I also have cancer and am worried that I may need to take something for that in the future so I am holding out. I am lucky as I am not in continuous pain, I only get pain when I have to stand up and do something in my home, and I have to sit upright as it is too painful lying down. Sometimes my pain is manageable but when it gets bad it gets bad. I am getting to the stage where I will ask for something stronger to help me cope with the pain. That's the big question, when do I accept that I need to take a more powerful painkiller.
Alain kordey
12 July 2008
Hi Peter
Ihave had mild to severe back and neck pain for 30 years
and have been on pain medication for 28 ,I have spent years
looking for a solution at the beginning of the "decease"
you name it I have tried it and I came to the conclusion
that pain medication is the ONLY solution to my problem
(except for couple of hours swimming every day which only
alleviates the problem).I do realize that I cannot live a normal
life without it and unfortunately put me as an addicted person
so be it,it usually decreases the pain sometimes up to 90%
the only scarry part for me is that regular pain killers sometimes
do not work but that is rare the other major problem is to get
prescriptions wich is a constant problem.
I have been able to maintain working (self employed)and even
managed to open another business during my illness which i
consider quite an achievement.
I used to feel somewhat guilty about the continuous use of
medication but not anymore every day that I am nearly
pain free is worth living,i just take life one day at a time
and it is working for me, I do not now if your body and
mind would respond the same way however it is worth a try
there is no shame to use painkillers if it makes your life
worth living to me a day in great pain is as you wasted it.
I certainly will die with still having my pain but at least I
can say that it was worth living with the meds.
I am certainly not trying to talk you into taking meds
since it does have has lots of mild side effects and this should
be considerd a last resort solution not to be taken ligtly.
Sincerely
ALAIN
alan
19 June 2008
In 1972 I trapped my sciatic nerve between two vertebra and walked around lopsided for 9 months before the NHS, more by luck than judgement, left me under the heat lamp too long, thumped my back hard and the nerve popped out.It left me with back pain every time I stood still for more than 15 minutes, and I had to be very careful if I lifted anything. I am not now allowed any painkillers such as paracetamol or isobrufen due to other problems, but we found a natural product in Morocco, Arnaca. By rubbing a small amount of cream in the painful area and then a tiny bit of oil it relieves the pain immediately. Wonderful.
Debbie
19 June 2008
When i was 13 years old i had an injury to my lower spine, over the course of the next 25 years i had been told everything from " your tall so thats why your back hurts" to sciatica, in 2004 a wonderful specialist finally found out the problem, i now have degenritive disc diease and had surgery in 2005 to remove the disc and fuse it to the one above, im one of the unlucky ones as the operation didnt work, i now take tramadol and have spinal injections to kill the nerves in my lower spine every couple of months, i am registered as disabled and im starting to find it hard to keep up with my 6 year old.
but i am thankful im not in a wheelchair as some doctors said i would be by the time i am 40 so 2 years to go!
If you have back pain you should seek medical help asap and dont always beleive what they tell you, if your unsure then ask for a second opinion, i wish we had done this when i was younger maybe i wouldnt have suffered 25 years in constant pain.
Fiona
19 June 2008
I first suffered lower back pain over 10 years ago.I found excercise helped as did heat!A friend purchased a back massager for my chair which also works well.
I got a tens machine a while ago and it seems to help.
my doctor thought i had sciatica and said yoga would be good!!
I find the pain starts if i have to stand still for any length of time.i am fine if i keep walking!
Also the pain is usually worse in the winter and especially when it is raining!
Debbie
19 June 2008
i've tried the tens machine and they didnt help, i to cant stand or walk to long periods, i also found sitting is getting worse. yoga for sciatica? sounds like something one of my dr's would have said.
hopefully the next set of injections will help with the pain.
barbara
28 June 2008
I have had back pain for a few years and trying massage and physio did not really help. the doctor said that is just something I had to live with but when I started to look into alternative healthcare I found a technique called Dorn Spinal Therapy. I had 2 treatments and have never looked back. my back is strong and pain free, I do all sorts of sports, have 2 kids and eventually learned the technique myself as I thought i wanted to help other people as well. And I do, I even teach it now to others and we all have great successes. So it certainly is worth a try looking into it.
Tony
19 June 2008
I've suffered intermittent back pain for about 20 years, due to (I think) a fall. I've had physio in the past which has helped with short-term relief, but a few months ago I was referred to physio again after hurting my back again by sneezing(!). I was asked if I would consider acupuncture and I'm glad I did as after 6 sessions(through the NHS) my back feels better than it has for years. Not sure if all NHS physio depts offer acupuncture, but I definitely recommend it.
Joan
20 June 2008
I have had problems with my spine for years(since I had a fall at work and slipped a disc). I have had all kinds of treatment, and yes I did get acupuncture on the NHS. You are only allowed a certain amount, and then you hve to find a private clinic to have more. I am now in constant pain as I have Osteo arthritis set in my spine, hips, knees etc. This has been exacerbated by the lenght of time that I was left untreated in the first place! I live with pain killers and tens machines. Heat is a good source of relief, but as I can't afford Hydrotheapy anymore, I do the same exersizes in a hot bath just before going to bed, and then having pillows to support my legs and keep the hips apart. If I don't do this, I get no sleep and am unable to get out of bed in the morning as I get stuck, due to my hips and legs getting stuck in one position.
CHRISTINE WHITTAKER
19 June 2008
i have had back pain for a number of years now and my gp does nothing, she hasnt even sent me for a x-ray, i find it difficult to walk a few yards, yet if i sit to long its agony as well, so i sit/stand in turn, i feel embarrassed if i have to stop in street when shopping as i dont look like i have anything wrong to a outsider, dr gave me co-codomol but it does nothing, i would like a x-ray if only to find out what the real problem is, i already have a hip replacement and now wondering if it is my other hip as the pain is low down, i dont think i fancy a operation as i know a few who have had it done and they are stil in pain, one lady has since died when they said they would remove the plate they put in due to infection, she didnt survive the removal op. my dr puts everything down to osteoarthritus,as that was reason for my hip replacement, it may be so but without a x-ray or tests how can she be so sure? i cant use a tens machine as i have a pacemaker, so i have to suffer in silence, i cant work yet have to use taxis to get about. it is very frustrating.
jonboy
19 June 2008
Have you heard of the danish invention called PAINGONE; I found it very effective and it does not interfere with a pacemaker as long as you follow the directions carefully.
hope this is useful to you.
Belinda Moderator
19 June 2008
Many Thanks for all your comments.
Gillian
19 June 2008
I suffered from back pain after a car accident and had to have a spinal fusion. Although the operation was a complete success, I suffered badly. Doctors of traditional Western medecine regard you as a nuisance and I eventually found that the best support that I had was from a chiropractor. I would recommend that you are assessed by one as many many people can be helped by them for many types of pain. Some of your pain will be from not walking properly or weak muscles. A physio or osteopath may also be able to help.
I have suggested this to many of my friends some of whom have actually tried it. Most of them now need a 6 monthly check up and a couple need to see someone every 6 weeks. Their lives have been transformed.
I can't guarantee that anyone will be cured but certainly many of you will find an improvement. I took a long time to get over the worst of it and will never be completely better but am now far more able to enjoy life than I was.
Have a look at other alternatives, who knows what will help. Even counselling or a support group may make life easier. Try contacting them, they will know the latest research and may be able to suggest something to help make your life easier. Even a change of diet may help eg exclusion of red meat, dairy or cereal (some things aggravate pain, I can't eat tomatoes or oranges because of the acid, it sets me off).
Ashley Davies
19 June 2008
My real problems with my back were as a result of a car crash in September 1989. I was taken to hospital by ambulance, but they missed that I had dislocated the facet joints at the base of my spine, L5/S1. When I saw a consultant a month later, he did a manipulation under anaesthetic (MUA), but it did not really work and I had a spinal fusion of L5/S1 in June1990. Unfortunately, the ligaments near my spine were damaged and I have been in pain ever since! I now take anti-inflammortary and pain killers on a regular basis.
Jayne Pickard
19 June 2008
I first began with back problems in the early 80s after having my eldest daughter. I was prescribed painkillers and anti-inflamatories which got me on my feet and back to normal in around 4 days. Over the following years I was referred for physio, which didn't do any good and the cortisone injections made matters worse!
Each time I had an episode, the pain got worse and by 1995 I was in my worst episode yet. I had been prescribed the usual painkillers and anti-inflamatories, but this time felt different and within a week I was in excruciating pain and which resulted in my legs getting increasingly numb. My on duty GP told me to lay on the floor on cushions, which is where I spent the next 2 days. Until I had the most horrible pain down my right leg which had me crawling the floor, unable to stand/sit or even lay down; ultimately this made me completely numb everywhere below the waist.
I was admitted to hospital where an MRI scan revealed a ruptured disc at L5/S1 level. I had an emergency discectomy and laminectomy which released some of the pressure and some of the numbness. The pain lifted slightly after that, but slowly crept back, along with further pain all the way up my spine including my neck. I now have bulging discs in several areas, the worst being in my neck but my neurosurgeon is reluctant to operate and understandably so! It seems the condition is down to a faulty gene as my dad, brother and both my daughters all suffer to varying degrees with back problems and osteoarthritis.
I take 2 100mg Tramadol twice daily, 2 30/500mg Co-Codamol every 4 hours, 2-5 10mg Amytriptyline at night for the nerve damage. All that takes the edge off the pain but doesn't take it away fully. I am awaiting confirmation of cortisone injections into my neck, recommended by my neuro-surgeon, which I am reluctant to have after the experience in my lower back. I use crutches when the pain is too bad and have a soft collar for days when my neck is too painful.
I wouldn't wish back problems on my worst enemies. When I hear of people saying that they have a "bad back" and laying it on to get off work it makes my blood boil. Those of us who are genuinely suffering would gladly swap places. It limits my every day life, although I try not to let it; then I suffer the consequences of my actions the following day. I have found www.yourable.co.uk a very reliable source of information as well as a back pain forum I can't remember the address of at the minute.
Belinda Moderator
19 June 2008
Hi Jayne
Thanks for the post
I've just tried the yourable.co.uk site and it seems to be down. Could you re-post by some chance
Many thanks
Marie
19 June 2008
Hello Jayne, Your story sounds oh so familiar. I had an accident in work in 1996 which wasn't diagnosed and after 6 weeks they discovered, (thanks to a vigilant physiotherapist), that I had fractured the two bones that hold the spine to the pelvis at L5/S1. They said there was no disc problem and the joint had 'only' slipped 25%, which left 1mm clearance for te spinal cord. I cannot sit, stand or walk for long and even lying down is a problem at times. I discovered a medical report recently which said that I also had L4 rolled laterally, which someone has told me means that I do have a slipped disc which hasn't been treated properly.
Anyway I get realy annoyed with the Benfits Agency doctors who kept calling me in for check-ups, one even said I was fit for work because he kept me waiting for 2 hours and I didn't go home. He also complained that I wouldn't let him pull me around to examine me and said I was obstructive. I went to tribunal and the specialist tore that doctor to strips. I haven't been called for a medical since.
As for medication I think I've tried every combination in the books. The problem there is that your body gets accostomed to a particular medicine and it doesn't work any more. On top of which I am extremely sensitive to aspirin and all the brufens, so i can't even have anti-inflamitary cream. At the moment I am taking 8 co-codamol and 8 Tramadol daily. I also have pentazocine and oramorph if the pain gets to excruciating as I hate lying on my back in hospital feeling that I am taking up a bed someone seriously ill needs.
Wouldn't it be nice if they openned a hospital just for back pain sufferers. Where we could get to see experts and have up to date treatment surrounded by other patients who understand. Oh well back to planet UK.
I had hydrotherapy this week and the therapist told me 'if it hurts don't do it'. I told him that if i took that advice I wouldn't get out of bed in the morning as just getting up hurts. It has been 12 years this week and I have never been out of pain whilst concious.
On a good note I have taken the RYA's narrowboat helmsmans course this year as i intend to live on one. You can get all sorts of aids these days and even have a remote control for the engine and steering so that you can handle locks and bridges on your own. With fore and aft thrusters to help moor it and a lift to get to the stern it sounds perfect. Maybe by this time next year I will be a canal gypsy. Won't that be great?
louise
23 June 2008
i would definately recommend the cortisone injections i have severe disc bulges in my neck and lower back and i can go up to 12 months pain free on these injections. I wish you all the best and take my advice they really really help
vivien hendry
19 June 2008
I have suffered with an 'aching back' since I was first pregnant and this was put down to the pregnancy and I was told to 'just get on with things' - it would go away once baby was born. Absolute rubbish! This was when I was 19 - I am now 60 and it is no longer an ache but a very definite pain. I have pain in my lower back and across my shoulder blades and I would say I have the pain most days.
I was diagnosed as having weak back muscles in the early 80's and my back muscles were realigned and things improved for a time.
Massage does help the pain across my shoulder blades but seems to make my lower back pain worse so I no longer have it done.
I take Ibrufen and have been prescribed various muscle relaxants over the years and they do help but ,of course, are not a cure.
When my back 'goes' - this happens about every 2 years - I am left unable to walk or stand properly and , of course, I cannot go to work. These episodes are extremely painful and are usually the result of something silly -reaching for the soap when having a bath, vacuuming the skirting boards, putting on a knee bandage, standing up the wrong way etc.
My back pain effects my life in that I find gardening,vacuuming,making beds and ironing very painful and cannot do much - lucky you some folk may say but it does disrupt my life and put extra work onto my husband. Work can be difficult too as when my pain is quite severe I find it difficult to think about anything else - it's like having toothache in your back and I become very tetchy .
I have not been diagnosed with any condition since the muscle realignment and I am able to get about and to work I just have to do it with pain but I am lucky that I can still do most things and I still lead a fairly active life
Ken Galloway
19 June 2008
My back problems started following a fracture of my right tibia on 01.01.2004. The fracture was fused after 3 surgical interventions, but, it left my right leg 1 inch shorter than the left, and doing physiotherapy in bare feet resulted in a twisting of the spine. One consultant I saw said that the options were to accept the back pain and get on with life, or just give up and never work again. Fortunately I consulted an excellent neurosurgeon who performed a dissection and laminectomy on L5. Despite this I continued to have back pain and an extension of the Laminectomy was performed to L7. Again this was not successful and 2 months ago I had another operation to insert metal cages between C5 and C6 and C6 and C7. When I came round from that operation I had no pain or discomfort and despite the odd stiff neck I have had no back pain whatsoever. The only problem I have now is that I can only walk about 50 steps and I lose sensation in both legs but if I stop for a few minutes I can continue for about another 50 paces and stop again. This is a small price to pay for relief from the constant, and sometimes excrutiating pain I have suffered for four and a half years.
Ian D Drewe
19 June 2008
I have had a pain in my back for approx five years, I have been seen by various specalist, I have had from blood tests to MRI, liver bye op, ultra sound and loads of other tests ? this has been going on for five years, I now just struggle on and try to forget the pain, which sometimes puts me on my knee's, I will not give up and work a 11 hour day everyday, but i'm afraid i've lost all faith in the NHS, I'm certain I have hurt my spine but every test has come back clear, what makes it worse I have a hernia in the front of my stomach and they haven't even found that yet and it sticks out like a small ball.
jill
19 June 2008
I have suffered from lower back pain on and off for a few years; it often arrives for no apparent reason. I find it worse if I'm inactive, e.g. over a public holiday. Most of the time I'm fine. I have a great osteopath who usually sorts things out in a few sessions and am very careful about lifting and bending correctly
Graham Hulland
19 June 2008
Hi,
I have sufferd with back pain for the last 12mths and cannot seem to get a proper diagnosis from my GP. He say's it's probabley Arthritis and prescribed Cocodamol. I am not satisfied with this treatment and plan to ask for a full and proper examination into this in the hope of receiving some long term relief from the pain. I have carried out a manual job for all my working life (plumbing and heating installer) almost 40 years maybe this as contributed to this?
Kind regards. Graham
Denise Reid
19 June 2008
I have suffered with back pain for the past 30 years and was told about five years ago that I had osteoporosis, this can be both very debilitating and painful. I also suffer from osteoarthritis and fybromyalgia. I do not find much pain relief from the prescribed medecines although they do take off the edge when necessary. Although I try not to rely on them.
Sympathy to all sufferers Denise
Muva
19 June 2008
I was unsure about posting because everyone's problems are so much worse than mine. I tore the ligaments in my lumbar region when I was a nurse in 1984( lifting a heavy patient with someone else who didn't!) which has left me with sciatica and prone to repeated injury if I'm not careful. I was on a high dose of anti-inflammatories for many years, and this has damaged my bowel. At the moment I take Paramol tablets when necessary. I also have arthritis in my cervical vertebrae, which causes pain in my neck and arms and pain/ loss of sensation in my arms. However, after reading of the dreadful pain some of you have to bear, I count myself lucky that things are not worse, and wish you all better things in the future.
redneck
20 June 2008
i have had back problems for about 20years ,although its not been as bad as some peoples blogs i have read i myself found that although painkillers do help at times its the constant battle to be positive about life in general because pain of any kind grinds you down and then once depression or anxiety set in you then have another battle to contend with ,sometimes the fear of what tomorrow brings is worse than how it is .
Muva
19 June 2008
By the way, the website mentioned earlier is http://www.youreable.com/ .
Belinda Moderator
19 June 2008
Many Thanks thats wonderful
Brian
19 June 2008
I suffered with lower back pain for many years, working in the tyre industry. My doctor advised normal pain killers and rest, this worked for a while but the pain came back. Eventually I went to a osteopath who used heat and manipulation. Marvelous no pain for a long time, then turning quickly one day I felt my back click and the pain was back. The osteopath put it right in seconds and luckily I have had not had the pain return.
welshy
19 June 2008
my back just went with no warning 6 years ago and i was sent to the hospital for physio which promply sent me into uncontrolable spasms and i ended up on a camp bed for 7 months,i only recieved ssp and the doctors THREW morphine at me until i could take no more and had to go cold turkey by myself to get off,it was the worst experiance of my life but no one seemed to care that i was only 42 only that if i was drugged up i was out of the way....i still suffer badly but now i can control it my way.....in silence,,,,,thank god for my understanding wife
Lynn
19 June 2008
I had to quit work in 1999 as I had had an accident with electronic doors which shut on me causing my spine to jump & twist so I could no longer walk or move at all without tremendous pain in my back mainly lower reigon, it turned out after several MRI's & specialists prodding me that I had a disk pressing on my spinal nerves so I was given a Microdiscectomy & when I went back to the specialist he showed me a specimin bottle with fragments of what had been taken out of my back, there was not only part of the disc but pieces of bone which apparantley when they got into my back they found that the vertebra above was compressed & crumbeling so I was to be kept an eye on, then 6 months later whilst I was still in a very painful way with my back I had to undergo another operation for a Dermoid Cyst in which they also took away my ovary, but the back specialist was concerned as to the fact that I shouldn't have really had another operation so close to the 1st one due to loosening of my spine. I have been in constant pain ever since with my back which has also caused problems right up thru my shoulders & to my neck & down my arms causing tingeling in my hands & I have sciatica down both legs plus the doctors whom I must say have been great to me also found out I have Osteo & Rheumatoid Arthritis in all my joints & now I have Diabetes type 2 which I have to keep an eye on but the change in me as a mother of 2 having to try & do everyday things so differently if at all & the loss of a relationship with my now ex-husband (as of May 1st 08) due to the fact that I once was size 12 gymnastic, horse riding, hockey & motercycle mad person & now I am a size 22(17st) slow although still happy person but unable to be the person I once was, I take Tramadol (which I will admit I am addicted to & yes the DR does know) also Diclafenac, Pregabalin,Sulfasalazine, Diazapam,Simvastatin, Dosulepin, but before I take any of these tablets I start the day with Lansoprazole to line my stomach to stop ulcurs, but it has taken me a long time to get to these pills I have had some nasty side effects from others but this combination helps even though I have to say that they do not take the pain away it is still with me like a constant toothache, I also have accupuncture & use heat wraps & cold compresses & a tens machine but I am not in a wheelchair I walk using 2 sticks & I am alive aged 37 with the most fantastic young adults that always are there to help should I need it but are free to get on with their lives as I always wanted, so life can't be all that bad, there are much worse things in this world, I have to believe that plus I always smile even when I am crying inside.
Liz
19 June 2008
Hiya Lyn,
You poor love, if you ever need a natter, my `ears` are always open.
_elawr11@aol.com_ (mailto:elawr11@aol.com)
Liz x x
pmg
19 June 2008
First back ache in 1967 when on my knees at a cupboard when suddenly it flared up. Have had problems frequently since then. I was sent for physio and diagnosed with ? fibrositis? under my left shoulder blade. Physio helped but was told that it could not be cured. Later on I developed lowed back pains for which I had to wear a support for many years as well as dosing myself with painkillers. Don't deal with websites (yet!!!)
isabel colegate
19 June 2008
I had a back injury in 1975 when a brick was thrown theough my window in the night, this caused damage to my lower back making me less mobil, the ostopath and acupuncture helped me, I have since been in a car accident as the innocent passenger and now have upper back problems also, this is very difficult I can only type and do many things with one hand, I am having treatment once again, but don't get much sleep as when I turn in the night i put pressure on the shoulder where I had whiplash.
Susan
19 June 2008
I have suffered since I was 22, thats 31 years ago. I have wearing of the 4th and 5th discs and I have been told by many professionals to keep active, but when in pain its not easy. Physio is useless as is manipulation, injections are fantastic but only last about 4 months. Different activities make it worse or better, lifting causes pain and sweeping is unbearable, but bending up and down and getting into all manner of positions makes my back feel fantastic. Walking is OK but the next day I am in agony. I have now been diagnosed with rheumatism and arthritis and with my ME keeping active is not easy. Apparently some research has suggested a link between artificial sweteners and aches and pains.
isabel colegate
19 June 2008
Hi Susan
Good to hear from you, i see you also have M.E snap, its a pest isnt it? I don't have sweetners excuse typing errors as I said I have to use one hand at the moment
take care
issy
Valerie Egan
19 June 2008
I was diagnosed with Epilepsy at the age of 11months and had over 800 seizures a year. Through this I got back problems through falling to the ground on numerous occassions. The problem did not come to light until I reached 40.
My GP initially referred me to a consultant who recommended that I tried hydrotherapy. This did not work.
I was then asked to try out a TENS machine and I tried it only for 5 seconds provided by the NHS and after this short time I could not move a muscle in my body. Before taking the machine I did query abouth whether or not I should take it as Boots Chemists do not sell these to people with Epilepsy. They insisted that I tried it, but again this obviously did not work. Following these efforts my mother asked me to try and find a reflexologist and a chiropractor and these have both helped me since 2001, reflexology every 2 weeks, and the other every 3 weeks.
It would also appear that my body works along with the weather, as I am in worse pain when it is hot, and no pain when it is cold. Because of this outcome the consultant called me unique and odd.
Irene Holcroft
19 June 2008
I'm not sure if I fit here but here goes. I've had rheumatoid arthritis in all my joints even my jaw since I was 35, I'm 56 in September, and was told in 1994 after an x-ray that my spine was that of someone considerably older due to osteo-arthritis. I was lucky enough to have good medical care from two doctors, father and son actually, who have dealt with my problems most efficiently. I've had various treatments which were working reasonably well until I got cancer in 2006. Last year I had pelvic infections and became very aneamic therefore slept most of the year. RA and the methotrexate that I had to take previously plays havoc with the immune system, so I'm now trying to bounce back (ha-ha). This has been remedied now but the arthritis remains and I had to change my treatment, at the moment I have a weekly gold jab, take naprosyn and lansoprazole to counteract the stomach problems and co-codamol for the pain (8/500 and 30/500 depending on the day) .
In the past I have had physio in the hospital pool and found this to be quite helpful both to my joints and for back pain, as is any other possible exercise that I can manage as stronger muscle tone helps support the back and joints. I know from experience that if I sit around and do nothing my body just wants to cease up. Clearly, there are some days when rest is the best and only possible thing to do. Then a higher portion of codeine to paracetamol in the co-codamol is required, particularly when I need a good sleep but too much of that and you get constipated, can't win can you! Still there's always prunes.
Another thing is trying to keep the weight down, which can be difficult when inactivity sets in. When I have gained weight at any time I have felt more tired and have felt more pain and the weight is very difficult to shift, it's hard enough when you are young but much harder the older you get. For myself I do not eat red meat, avoid salt and too much fat, keep the calories lower and eat plenty of fruit and veg which I love anyway. Seems to be working. I'm 62kilo at the moment.
I'm very fortunate that I have a husband who at 69 is as strong as an ox and does so much for me (I should be doing it for him) and a lovely thoughtful family who consider my problems when we go anywhere or they buy me presents.
Jay
19 June 2008
The first time that I had severe debilitating backpain was on 3rd October 2000, how do i know that? It was my Daughters 4th Birthday & I spent it in hospital!!!! I had hurt myback a few weeks earlier just by bending slightly forward to pick up a paper from the table. Something went in my back and i was in agony. Got my wife to take me to the Doctors who diagnosed Sciatica, prescribed painkillers, told me to sleep on the floor & gave me a med cert for 2 weeks. still no better after 2 weeks had a home visit by the doctor who said it could take up to 12 weeks to clear. on the 3rd october got up of the floor to go to the toilet & my back just locked. had to call an ambulance and got strechered to the hospital. they gave ne an injection of Voltarin which immediately eased the pain. they sent me home with someDiazepam tablets for the pain & advised me to contact doctor. This i did but all he did was give me another med cert & told me to keep taking painkillers, sleep on a hard surface (floor) and it would sort itself out in time. I was of work for 12 weeks & have had the same problems twice since then with the same treatment. No referral to a back pain specialist or anything like that. I personally feel that the medical profession doesn't take back pain seriously either because they don't know or don't know how to treat it.
Robert Sanger
20 June 2008
I started having acute back pain following a fall whilst ice skating. The pain was indescribable and I could neither stand nor sit! I could only lie, preferable on the floor so I couldn't sleep.
My GP referred me to the local hospital for physio. I had an X-ray and then the physio started the treatment. The pain just got worse and worse and I was eating the stongles pain killers in vastly too high doses.
Eventually I was referred to the consultant who immediately said that the phyro of 'ultrasound tratment was totally wrong and that would only vibrate any healing apart. He then had more X rays done and it appreared that i had not damaged my coxyx as first thought but had cracked a vertebra above it! The only possible help was to be me wearing a corset! I dreaded the beastly thing but gradually after a few months the pain got less and now a few years later I only have the occaisional twinge. SO bless the steel boned corset after all
Katy Board
20 June 2008
I first experienced back pain when I was 18. I worked in a facory between school and college, and I was put on a job where two people should have been lifting, but no-one was allowed to help me to lift, so I lifted boxes that eventually caused me to have a cracked vertibrae in the small of my back.
It didn't take too long to diagnose, as my doctor recommended me to a specialist very quickly, but the only treatment I got was the recommendation to sleep on a board, or on the floor, and I was given ibuprofen and co-proxamol for pain control.
This was 28 years ago, and I still get regular sessions where my back 'goes'. Unfortunately, I've developed arthritus, lymphodaema, and fybromyalgia as well, and all three complaints affect my back, so it's a triple-whammy as far as pain is concerned.
I have now got to the point that I am disabled, and spend a good part of each day bed-ridden. I had to have the bath removed, and a shower put in, as I was unable to get in and out of the bath, even with help, and I am also unable to lie flat any more, so spend my time propped up with pillows which, when my back is really playing me up, doesn't help at all.
I have had problems with many people who insist that 'a bit of exercise will fix it all for me.' I started this journey to disability a trim figure, and plenty of body strength, but am now very overweight due to medication and lack of movement, and I have lost most of the strength I used to have, which means that I tire very quickly while trying to do things around the house.
I also suffer from well-meaning friends forever telling me of the latest sure-fire cure, despite the fact that they know that the problems I have medically don't have a cure - just treatments that will ease things. I think this is worse for me to cope with than my actual physical problems, as I sometimes feel they don't believe me, despite the official diagnosies I've had!
All-in-all, I've been left pretty much to myself by the medical profession - just offered pain medication, which has now gone to morphine. I don't know what the future holds for me, but I've seen a gradual decline in my health over the last couple of years that, frankly, frightens me for my future prospects.
Ian
20 June 2008
Back probs, "slipped discs" from 24 - 50 years old usually involving 2-3 weeks off work each year. MRI in 2000 showed a "constitutionally narrow spinal canal" i.e. verging on stenosis on a permanent basis - which explained why even a minor bulging disc crippled me. Had a 2 level laminectomy at L4 and L5 in 2000 which was brilliant - but an overenthusiastic physiotherapist caused me a lot of pain, a loss of leg lift and numbness in my thighs. A private physio, paid for out of my disability benefit, got me moving again via Body Control Pilates. 18months ago pain started again. MRI shows that op had bled (prob the physio) causing scarring which was now turning to bone. Due to go into Hosp again on July 3 for a redo laminectomy plus another on L2. Tramadol was great - but I am allergic to it. Most help has been Dihydrocodeine and slow release NSAID at night, combined with an inversion table (heaven to be pain free if only for an hour!). The worst thing about it all is the depression which hit me when I was in constant pain and forced to retire. That was a long struggle back from a seriously close encounter with suicidal plans.
Ray Harrison
20 June 2008
Reading these makes me realise that I have nothing to complain about. I get back pain if I stand for long periods or bending over the sink washing up (not an excuse to get out of it). The pain is to either side of lower back and rubbing there then resting usually eases it with occasional use of paracetamol necessary.
Pam Hughes
20 June 2008
I first injured my back when a student nurse almost 25 years ago. I have never been pain free since. I had to retrain and am now a lecturer. I was given no help or advice only offered a cortisone injection. This I refused, as the pain tells me when I am doing too much. At no time have I ever had a back xray or been offered alternative treatment. Doctors just keep prescribing pain killers and saying you will have to live with it. I am now 63 and fed up with living with the pain, not being able to walk without having to sit down every hundred yards. I miss being able to go with my grandchildren on holidays. 6 months ago a student threw a table which threw me back and twisted my back. I have been back to square one, again just keep taking the pain killers. I cannot sit for long periods, or walk any distance. I feel people think I am a fraud. I cannot claim for my injury so I have been told as the college is not at fault. I could not claim as a student nurse either. I have to keep working to get my pension from work, but I am at my wits end with the pain and don't know what to do.
Ian
20 June 2008
Hi all, just a silly question
Do you think Belinda Moderator is real? She sounds a bit repetitive and bland - is she electronic?
Belinda Moderator
20 June 2008
Hi Ian
No I'm real enough -
Lets put it like this it is now Friday am and I'm looking forward to exactly six hours time
Take care and thanks for posting
Belinda
John
20 June 2008
Hi
I first started having back pain in March 2003, it started of as very mild i took some Ibuprofen for a couple of days hoping it would get better but instead it gradually got worse, i went to my GP who advised exercise and the Ibuprofen i was taking, i ended going back to my gp a fortnight later and he put me on Diclofenac 50mg three times a day. Still no improvment, i then saw a different gp and he sent me to maidstone hospital to see a different doctor (this was in late 2003) i got an appointment to see him in the January 2004, all this time still taking Diclofenac and Paracetamol. The doctor i saw at maidstone took me of the diclofenac and put me on Vioxx. In July 2004 i had a spinal probe under sedation, which gave me a pain score of 8 out of 10 indicating disc L5/S1. He referred me to guy's all this time back deteriating medication getting stronger, I was now on Tramadol 100mg 4 times a day, oxycodone 1 4 times a day, Paracetamol, imipramine for depression, amitriptyline at night to help me sleepand Gabapentin.Then in Aug 2006 i had a spinal fusion carried out. To start with all was well and then under advisement of my gp i started cutting down my medication, but then i started getting break through pain and so now i am still taking the drugs and still in a lot of pain. I went back to guys and had a MRI and CT scan which showed the fusion had taken very well and was nice and strong so as far as they were concerned that was that and they have said they can't do any more for me.
Fran
20 June 2008
Hi, I have suffered from back pain since 1991, after a fall. I have had physio, corsets, traction, steroid injections, epidurals (5),facet joint injections, acupuncture, ostoepathy, chiropractor, tens machine and every painkiller going. In 2005 after a failed discogram I had double level fusion of l4/5 l5/s1 and was diagnosed with spina bifida occulta, which caused my spinal fluid to pour out of my back when my stitches were removed. This resulted in a further op to glue the hole in my vertebrae. The fusion gave me no relief and in 2006 I was referred to Input pain management at St Thomas's in London. I went on a week pain management course and had a neurostimulator trial followed by the full implant in 2007. Unfortunately although it relieved the sciatica it was not working for me and causing more pain where the battery was implanted, so was removed 2 weeks ago. I currently suffer with low back pain, sciatica in both legs, neck pain that radiates down right arm due to degenerative discs in my neck. I am on a waiting list for a 4 week residential pain management course at St Thomas's, the staff there are fantastic and the course is amazing, really helps get through the pain barrier. I have had bad reactions to a lot of drugs so do not like taking painkillers at the moment, though I have got some co-codamol for the really bad days. I just try and live a best as possible, although not able to work, with hubby and 2 girls age 11 and 12. Will not resort to a wheelchair until I cannot walk at all.
Can't wait for the day they can do spinal transpalnts!!!
John Austin
20 June 2008
I suffered many years with back pain due to spinal stenosis, and visits to the chiropractor gave temporary relief, I then had a scan of the spine which showed, an operation was necessary, and I was admitted to Atkinson Morley, but 15 minutes before the operation, they decided my heart may not stand the strain, so it was postponed until heart tests had been performed.
In the mean time the pain needed strong medication, and this caused stomach ulsers. Previously, I have taken Aloe Vera juice to relieve the ulsers, and I started taking it 25ccs a day, in a week, the ulsers were cured but I continued taking it, then noticed the Back pain was decreasing, by the time I was recalled for the operation, all pain had disappeared, so the operation was postponed again, that was 4 years ago, and touch wood, it wont be needed.
Aloe Vera has anti inflamatory properties, and as pain is caused by inflamation, my GP and the Neurological surgeon, think this has been the cure, and now they recommend trying this treatment first to others suffering back pain, and I think it is having positive results.
Aloe Vera Juice is odtained from places like Holland and Barrat, and when they have their half price sales it's quite a reasonable cost.
It takes about a month of treatment before it worked for me, but now I take it about 3 times a week, 25ccs in fruit juice, and it keeps me pain free.
george boulton
20 June 2008
cant help with this survey as i have never suffered with back pain but people i know have and i know the pain you people must have to put up with
Judy
20 June 2008
Hi to all, my sympathies to all backpain sufferers. I've had a chronic bad back for about 25yrs.In the beginning I put it down to lifting patients (Worked NHS mental hospital with a lot of elderly and disabled patients) Then I had a crushed base of my spine, due to misdiagnosis of baby size. (My spine base was crushed during birthing) I managed to control the pain quite well with co-codimal for a time, then my Mum became virtually bedbound. My father and I looked after her, me doing the lifting as Dad wasn't strong enough. My back stayed roughly the same through this time. About 6yrs after Mum died and my Dad had died only a year before this time. My back badly spasmed just picking an empty bag up. I couldn't move for about a week, my GP sent me for MRI scan, this showed that my discs are disintegrating. They will be dust one day. )Sooner than later now) Over the last ten years I've tried all sorts of treatments, the best for pain I've found is a tramadol and a disolvable paracetamal together (Or two of each if extremely bad) A friend of mine swears by Shark cartilage tablets. (Seems to work, after being told he would be incapable of work ever again 7yrs ago, he's just gone back to work in a manual job with no problem) Unfortunately I'm allergic to marine based tablets & my GP doesm't think that anything will be an improvement for my condition. Three years ago, I had a stroke which led to me finding out I'd got a blood disease called THROMBOPHILLIA. This causes blood clots even though blood pressure is fine, chlorestral is 3.8, it makes your blood cells very sticky. So I have to be careful that I eat a healthy diet (And I still cannot lose weight !!) I've just been told I can no longer do hardly any exercise as my back has badly deteriated in the last couple of years, presumably the stroke had an effect, then five weeks after the stroke I was in a near fatal car accident which also had an effect on my spine. Unfortunately as I already had a back problem, i cannot claim anything as there isn't any evidence to prove that the crash has made it worse. As for the DWP, well they've just told me that after November with the new guidelines, its possible that i can go to work, even though I use a push along wheelchair some of the time, my GP wont let me go out alone as I could have another stroke anytime. And I suffer frome bladder control at times. I alos look after my daughter who has mental health problems (She is emotionally retarded and will never be more than a naive fourteen yr old in her head (Now 31) and she has two children that I give support to) Saying that, the DWP have said she can get a job and leave the eldest child to roam the streets (Just 10) and I could look after baby, seeing as i can hardly pick a cup of tea up, i assume baby will change her own nappies etc...
jill
20 June 2008
I have had back problems for the past 20 years and it was only after my second m.r.i. scan this year that it was found i had three compacted discs i still done know what the hospital will do but my doctor has put me on tramadol which is fantastic for removeing most of my pain but not all and plus i`am on 400mg per day and if i take the whole dose it makes me very sleepy and the pain just seems to zap the energy out of me and iam unable to work at the moment plus there lots of people out there who once they know seem to think it meens your lazy and you dont want to work and this is not true but if they lived with 24 hours a day 7 days a week in pain then they would know what real pain is,I just whish i had a magic wand and i would remove all our pain.
kathryn jones
20 June 2008
I started having back ache once I had my third child,I thought it started because of carrying my child around all the time but it was very painfull I went to my doctor he sent me for xrays I found out I had spina bifida and I had narrowing of 2 of my discs,nothing was done,but I try to keep fit and try not to have excess weight on.
Sioux Mingaye
20 June 2008
I have suffered with back pain since I was a child. Seems a lot stems from what was termed a traumatic birth and being 2 months premature.
I cannot recall a time without pain since I was a child, I am now 50 and can say that I am in pain almost all day, every day.
I have tried always to get on with it, but it is not easy.
I have three main problems, burning in left shoulder and neck, it was calmed by Gabapntin,
Lower stabbing back pain, worse on right side
A brusing feeling right in small of back, there almost always.
I have had all kinds of treatment, manlipuation, heats, drugs, tens, hydrptherapy, ultrasound, accupunture, pain managerment, injections. Now I am advised that this is it. I cannot have any more treatment.
I had to give up working with horses as I was becoming really more and more crippled.
Days are bad when I cannot sleep, cannot sit and cannot settle.
I cry with pain and frustration sometimes as nobody knows how bad it feels and how much I hurt.
I take as many pills as I can, but it does nothing more than dull the pain.
After 45 years, I am tried of it, fed up with people telling me to get the doctors to look again.
I lose weight, gain weight and it makes no change.
Nights like tonight when I am so fed up with, it is aven now going to stop me writing more as I can barely move now....
Sioux
The NHS is not willing to help me any more and I feel really bad abou that.
Ian
21 June 2008
Sorry Belinda for casting doubt on your humanity
"Hi Ian
No I'm real enough - Belinda" Mea Culpa!
Belinda, do you think you could see about getting the forum "threaded". I can't always sit long enough to scout back through the posts to catch later additions/replies (which are inserted after original posts). At present it reads in a disjointed fashion and can look (to me) like folk are not having a conversation at all, whereas there are some interesting themes, like drugs, surgery, impact of poor service on benefits, etc. Couldn't we have a series of threads under headings like these so that we can follow the development of the debate/discussions/advice, please? Regards Ian
Belinda Moderator
21 June 2008
Hi Ian
Yes we are looking to update this in the next few weeks
We are also launching a new platform where you can iniciate your own discussions
I'll keep you in the loop
Colin
21 June 2008
I am a long time sufferer of ankylosing spondylitis. Diagnosis was a long, drawn out affair, although over the past two decades many advances have been made and diagnosis is now quicker. Treatment varies from one region to another, but the main one is exercise, which can be painful but you have to go through that pain barrier. The AS itself you can learn to live with, making the most of the good days and putting up with the bad days, and you soon learn your limitations and abilities.
It isn't just back pain though, over the years it spreads to more joints, in my case currently the neck and shoulders, which cause yet more problems. Treatment is slow even though the pain increases. I have seen 3 consultants, 4 physios in the last 12 months but to no avail whatsoever.
There are many useful forums for a variety of back conditions which also provide excellent support, help and advice.
Best wishes to all, Colin
myk baker
21 June 2008
I compacted a disk in 1987 at the age of 17. I spent 18 months seeing an oestiopotist which helped short term. I am qualified as a chef and have worked on building sites, both jobs I can no longer do.
3 times I have done something to my back which left me barely able to move and each time after recieving emergency treatment I was refered to a phisiotherapist. None of this has cured my problems but has helped for short periods. Now my only recourse is to make sure I don't put myself in a position to 'put my back out'. This means my options are limited, I'm longer able to do the work I'm trained for and cannot get unqualified work due to it's manual content!
I feel trapped and left out as most of the time I don't have much trouble, so people think I'm 'putting it on'!
Sue
21 June 2008
I fell in the early '80s and broke my coccyx and the hospital told me it wa a slipped disc and sent me home it was only when i went to a chiropractor that he noticed something wasnt right and sent me to another hospital for xrays...Ive been told it'll never fully heal and i have to live with a lot of lower back pain...to top it all I did slip a disc later on in life and occasionally, if i sneeze or move funny or whatever,I can put it out again... but with strong pain killers and by being a bit carefull i can live a normal life... only occassionally does it flare up to be incapicitating... luckily it happens more and more rarely now ..and as i have arthritus in my knees when my back is bad its hell...
isabel colegate
22 June 2008
Hallo all again, i hope your weekend hasn't been to bad and you have had some ease from this trouble we all seem to have with our backs. i have found a marvellous gel that really does help, yes it works! some of you may have heard of it already but I thought it a good idea to pass it on to you all, in hope you can gt help from it also. I have been in the medical world for over 40 years so know what its like with doctors, and how they can be, well some of themThis gel works like ibrubrufen, but has none of the side affects, because its a natural thing, the trouble is you have to buy it as its not on prescription, you need a good health shop, not somewhere where the stuff is sold cheap as the salepeople are not always trained,A trained person should ask you questions, they will know what goes with what you are taking on prescription, if they cant help you then find one who can, this gel is called Atrogel Arnica Gel, it has been used for years as a cream,but this really does easy pain, when you put it on, theres is no heat or coldness, you feel nothing, so think oh this wont work but after a few times you suddenly find the pain is easing, I have been using this and been able to reduce my tablets, its worth the money, I also started to take a thing called Devils claw, they are capsules, this help inflamation, and there again I have had great success, but before taking these you must discuss with the man in the health shop so he can tell you if they will mix with what your GP has put you on.I want you to know Im not selling any of this, but its helped me so much, I have got others to try it and they have been pleased with it.It is something my grandmother would have had, as she used to make creams ect: for medical help as then there was no nation health. I do hope this can help at least some of you, I have 3 packets in front of me, and suddenly thought i should share it with you all.take care
best wishes to you all
Michael Stanbury
22 June 2008
Years ago I had a accident at work lifting a batteries at work from the emergency lighting cupboard and put my back out. I went to the GP who told me to lay on something solid and painkillers for a few weeks, but this did not work, so he sent me to the physiotherapist at the hospital, in the end I was given an adjustable metal body brace which may help some people, I found I could hardly walk and the pain agonizing, then somebody told me of manipulator who helped them, so as a last resort I went and he manipulated my back, and I found could walk out of there with only slight pain (this is not a cure it is some cases its a hindrance and sometimes a help). Some years later got rheumatoid Arthritis and during one of my sessions with the specialist I told him I was having back pain and he sent me for an X Ray which showed that my third And forth vertebrae was crumbling, nothing been done as yet, I have heard it is common in a lot of people especially manual workers. Back pain is always hard diagnose as there is a lot of variations. I was always told do exercise, IE lay on floor or bed exercising one leg up hold and down and the other one,(Go through the pain) when you have done that lay on stomach put hands on floor and push up and arch your back after a few of these each day it will get a bit easier also try and keep your weight down if you can which is hard I know but it easies the weight your frame has to carry. I hope this has helped some of you out there.
Best wishes Mike
margaret
22 June 2008
i was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis when i was 22 im now 58 and nothing seems to help the pain trying to get in a good position at night in bed is murder and i wake up often in agony.i cannot take a lot of painkillers etc as i have crohns and it they irritate my stomach so i have got to grin and bear it.
Michael Stanbury
23 June 2008
Margaret
Sorry to hear you have Crohns Disease as well as Rheumatiod Arthritis it must be painfull, I sufferd with my stomarch, having three bouts of pancretitus and then my gaul bladder removed and it was caused by the tablets that I was taking for my Rheumatiod. I wonder If you have talked to your Rheumatoid Specialist about TNF Drugs that are availible. One of these drugs is called EMBREL which you inject yourself twice a week in your leg, some people are frightened of injecting but once you have done it with the nurse its fine and its only a small needle and it really has made my life a lot better. I do believe there are also other TNF drugs, so if your suffering, Talk to your specialist and find out if you can change your medication and keep an eye out for new drugs comming on the market. Hope to hear things have improved for you.
Best wishes and lot of luck.
Mike.
margaret
25 June 2008
thanks mike will see about tnf drugs
Ian
22 June 2008
ASTOGEL ARNICA GEL
Isabel mentioned the above, I have not tried it, but this is the third time this week that someone has mentioned it working for their back pain. A quick "Google" tells me it's made by Bioforce. Here is one web page that I found: http://www.nutrisun.co.uk/bsearch.asp?action=search&brandq=arnica%20gel&whichoption=
That doesn't look like working link - but the www.nutrisun.co.uk does work and you ncan search from there. Thanks Issie
David
23 June 2008
Hi
I had an injury to my lower back when going down a very steep waterslide with the kids over 20yrs ago. I got such a thumping when I landed at the base of the slide down this steep decline that I had to see a chiropractor to be able to get rid of the pain. I did develop sciatica some time later.
I still find regular chiropractic care helps me today, 20yrs later.
Regards, David
Stephanie Painter
23 June 2008
Hi i am a 28 year old reasonably healthy individual but suffer from chronic back pain constantly. At the age of 18 i fell from a horse badly injuring my back damaging 3 vertebrate and prolapsed 4 disks to the point where my doctors were unsure I I would walk again. I spent 5 months in traction, hopitalised for a year, then physio and almost 2 years in a wheel chair. I had to learn how to walk again and the doctors gave me a 25% of full recovery. I was told not only had I damaged my vertebrate and disk but i suffered from something called somatoform Pain disorder ie you body says it's in pain when it is not. Which is totally rubbish i might add, pain is pain and doctors should be sensitive of how they discuss these ‘figment of your imagination pains’ you suffer from cause it really didn't help me get through it at all. I know when i have pain and when i don't. I have lived for years now fighting pain everyday and found that sometimes you can combat it and other times you have to manage it. I went to a pain management course (Hope Hospital Manchester) which was very intense and they help you to effectively manage pain and how to cope without pumping yourself full of drugs constantly. It helped me kick to the morphine, amatriptaline, Diasapan and other harsh drugs and coupled with swimming every other day i have found that i barley need strong pain killers or other drugs and have now got to a point where almost every don't feel the need to take anything at all. I hate the gym and not that keen on swimming either but you get used to it and it really does work to keep your back moving. Rock salt baths help too with lavender to help you sleep believe it or not. Chronic pain is relentless and often leads to depression as it did with me but the key is finding the right doctor who is willing to listen and not just treat the obvious but just go that extra mile unfortunately there are not enough of them around. Treating the depression associated with the pain really is the key, if your broken and depressed you can't see a way through it but if your fighting and determined your body can deal with some quite considerable things. Alternative medicine such as massage, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, relaxation techniques and counseling all helped me greatly to getting back on my feet. Just to prove i have beaten it i now am Salsa dancing and horse ridding again.
Sue
23 June 2008
I had my coccyx removed when I was 15 but I still experience pain when sitting for long periods and get numbness in the area. I have been involved in 3 car crashes which have affected the rest of my back. Years ago I did try to ask the doctors if anything could be done about the pain when sitting but they just started asking me questions about stress and problems. I decided to stop going as I felt they were labelling me with 'mental health' issues. I have constant back pain but I've learnt to live with it. It's only if the pain goes above the usual level that I notice it really. I exercise regularly and use anti-inflammatory gels if it is bad. If I pull any muscles or it goes into spasm I rest for a day then do gentle exercise. If really bad I have a massage or visit an osteopath.
Dave
23 June 2008
1984, diagnoised pulled muscle
1985, eventually hospital, one doctor(junior) claimed disc damage. Second (consultant) claimed nothing??
1986 Went private. Diagnosis from original x-ray. 2 discs damaged. Subsequent (3)operations over 4 years made pain worse until impossible to walk without blackouts.
1996 Consultant claimed I never had an operation. I left immediatly telling him he was not an all seeing demigod.
Since 1997 Tramadol, and paracetamol to take edge off pain. Prior Df118 and others which made me clinically depressed and suicidal.
seem to have 2 schools of thought. The ones who treat you as an idler, and the ones who are restricted by costs. But every one has a different answer. But no solutions. And the higher they are the more ignorant they seem to become.
ski1967
23 June 2008
Hi all,
I have noticed that many of you use anti inflamatory gels, this is interesting as I have tried many and have never been able to find anything that comes close to easing or stopping the pain in my back.
I have just re-visited my doctors, ( another new face, in a multi practice) and he never even read my notes, which was evident from the fact that he did not know what my levels of medication were. How can we expect to betaken seriously when there is a distinct lack of interest from the medical profession?
isabel colegate
23 June 2008
Hi
I have just read your message and understand how you feel my husband was a GP he and i worked together in surgery, he was single handed as a practice there was just the 2 of us, so we knew our patients and all about thir famlies, sadly this doesnt happen today, Dr didnt get paid as much then either and the work was 24/7
I wrote on here about the gel that i had found great, and also several other people, it acts as an anti inflamatory but has no side effect, you don't have to make sure you have had food ect: although you should as your GP s advice, if he is a good one he will tell you to give it a try, sadly many Doctors dont belive in something that hasnt been proven in a Lab, and the medical companies get great money for them, which in turn helps the GP, i don't know if this will help, at 1st you notice nothing, not like deep heat with the burning ect: then suddenly you find your back feels a bit easier as so on, i have over the years tried many things like you, but now I have thins gel will not be using anything else, sadly you have to pay for it, but its worth it if you get ease with your back
issy
Cathh
23 June 2008
I have suffered with back pain since a car accident 5 years ago and despite numerous visits to Dr's and Physiotherapists I have just been diagnosed with Spinal Stenosis, no one bothered about the bladder problem caused by this and treated it completely seperately. This has been made worse by the accident. I have had to learn to walk upright and the fact that I was stooping forward should have been a warning to all the medical staff who have treated me. To make matters worse my husband has suffered horrendous back pain for over 2 years and although at times he can hardly walk the doctors at A & E refused to treat him. Getting an appointment to see a specialist who will listen is proving to be the miracle that will never happen. He has just been prescribed powerful antidepressants which apparently target the pain but after just 2 doses he is refusing to take them as he will not be able to attend work because they make him zombie like. Another thing the Dr's forget is that some of us work and have mortgages to pay, therefore some of the medication is a definate no go. All he needs is an MRI Scan to be diagnosed and then we can all get on with our lives. It like living in a world of no hope.
louise
23 June 2008
I have suffered with terrible pain in my neck and lower back which is now affecting my hips for eight years now. I had some relief due to two spinal operations which were the injections into the neck and lower back, but i was only completely pain free for the maximum of a year. My surgeon told me that it was only temporary relief. The next option is spinal fusion which he said he will only perform if i walk into the hospital bent over in pain. All this due to a totally irresponsible idiot who had passed his car test a week previously hitting my stationary vehicle at 100 mph. And what did he get a slap on the wrist from the police and nothing more. One day i will bump into him i am sure and i just hope that on that day i am in a good mood.
TJ
23 June 2008
You don't have to suffer anymore. I was diagnosed with a bulging/ruptured disk at L5 S1. I had back pain for 10 months and was told by doctors that I would likely have pain forever. I stumbled onto a site called rebuildyourback.com and it has made a huge change in my life. The site advocates a rebuilding program that stresses flexibility. There is also a forum where users can discuss different methods. The discussion on John Sarno's book called Healing Back Pain also helped me get over the mental hurdles of believing everything doctors say. Please check this site out. I started the program on May 1, 2008. Today is June 23, 2008 and I have already played golf 3 times! This was something I thought I might not ever be able to play.
Celia
23 June 2008
I have suffered from migraine since I was 5 and have had major backproblems since I was 20 after I developed sciatica and could not walk. Upon examination I was told I had a scoliosis and problems with my neck and shoulders which of course exacerbated my migraines. After a period of severe stress a few years ago my lower back problems returned and I was then diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Over the course of the past 18 years I have tried osteopathy (9 osteopaths); cranial osteopathy; chiropractic treatment; Bowen Technique; Pilates; Acupuncture; physiotherapy; reflexology; hot stones; remedial massage; deep tissue massage; therepeutic massage; Reiki & Shiatsu and none of these treatments made me better - and I have to say the chiropratic and acupuncture made me much worse. A couple of years ago I was recommeded a treatment called Body Stress Release. It was developed in South Africa by a husband and wife team - the husband was basically told he was going to be a cripple and all the treatments he had tried had not worked so he and his wife who were qualified chiropractors developed this treatment. BSR is a really gentle treatment - you have the treatment fully clothed and is not at all invasive. Please look at bodystressrelease-uk.co.uk I am so much better since I had this treatment and really recommend it. If like I was you are in constant pain, are having to take strong analgesics or anti-inflammatory tablets then this is such a good treatment to have.
Kind regards. Celia
Sue
23 June 2008
I started having back pain about 14 years ago it was linked to injuring my leg I snapped my achillies tenbdon. I then developed RSD in my leg which caused me to walk with crutches and am now in a wheelchair. I tried evert medicine going main stream or alternative then I was offered an inplant at the pain clinic I attend. I have had it in for a number of years now and have been able to return to work full time because of it.
Juliette
23 June 2008
I was firts diagnosed with back pain and sciatica aged just 17 following on from an operation which had left my leg lengths at significant odds.
Aged 24 I began seeing a chiropractor for pain in my spine following an accident- it was a registered one and had been recommended to me by my own GP. After one of the sessions I was at home and climbing out of the bath my back gave way - I didnt slip or anything. I was left in a crumpled mess on the bathroom floor. I found out once admitted to hospital that I had prolapsed a disc. I was in hospital for a long time due to incontinence and being unable to move. Whne I was released I was on morphine for a number of months. I was offered a laminectomy but declined as the though petrifies me. I did have an epidural which helped somewhat.
Over the past few years I have had occasional bad bouts where I have found Tens the most useful with the least side effects. I have since partially prolapsed a second disc( trying on a pair of Jeans) and again was on Morphine. I find the best thing is a short amount of bed rest then dose up on pain killers and my tens and get moving even if only doing short bits.
I have recently gotten through a pregnancy giving birth to a hefty 8lb+ boy with amazingly no really problems with my back small amount of sciatica but have had far worse.
I find that it can be hard getting people to understand that someone of my age- now 31 (eek back pain for over half my life) can have had so many problems with their back so if your young and want a chat then feel free to get in touch!
dave c
24 June 2008
I've had fusion at C-5-6 . The surgeon would like to do a decompressive procedure on my lower back where I have a herniation and ruptured disc. I'm not really sure if I should go through with it. ANYONE ????
Jonathan
24 June 2008
Im 32 and I have been suffering with lower back pain since I had a car crash 5 years ago, I was extremely fit at the time and never had back pain before! This left me unable to walk for weeks at a time and keeps happening every 6 months or so due to lifting or even standing still for too long!After several visits to the doctors they prescribed diclofenac and diazepam! The diazepam worked a treat as it relaxed my muscles around the lower half of my back which allowed greater movement. The diclofenac made me constipate!!After 6 months waiting I finally had an mri scan which showed weaknesses in my lower discs, after which resulted in a bout of physio that helped me enormously! However I found if i didn't keep on top of my exercises my back pain would return but not as bad. You have to keep moving when you have a bad back otherwise it will seize up! Up untill last year I felt like my back was beginning to get better through exercise and my phsyio exercises, until I got to Christmas and found that when standing cooking I started to get a numb left leg and a pain running right down the front and back leg! My 3rd Mri scan later and they have found degenerative disc problems in my lower back which apparently is normal people of my age! Again I have been sent to physio but only once a month and 2 exercises later i'm still having problems!
Jonathan
24 June 2008
Im 32 and I have been suffering with lower back pain since I had a car crash 5 years ago, I was extremely fit at the time and never had back pain before! This left me unable to walk for weeks at a time and keeps happening every 6 months or so due to lifting or even standing still for too long!After several visits to the doctors they prescribed diclofenac and diazepam! The diazepam worked a treat as it relaxed my muscles around the lower half of my back which allowed greater movement. The diclofenac made me constipate!!After 6 months waiting I finally had an mri scan which showed weaknesses in my lower discs, after which resulted in a bout of physio that helped me enormously! However I found if i didn't keep on top of my exercises my back pain would return but not as bad. You have to keep moving when you have a bad back otherwise it will seize up! Up untill last year I felt like my back was beginning to get better through exercise and my phsyio exercises, until I got to Christmas and found that when standing cooking I started to get a numb left leg and a pain running right down the front and back leg! My 3rd Mri scan later and they have found degenerative disc problems in my lower back which apparently is normal people of my age! Again I have been sent to physio but only once a month and 2 exercises later i'm still having problems!
Ian S
24 June 2008
lots of info here - and lots of folk suffering! I caught a guy who fell off scaffolding 22 years ago - and damaged my spine. In 1996, after a disc broke up and lodged between spinal cord and vertebrae, I was in bed for 8 months. Retired thru ill health at 44 yrs old! Tried all things. Physio had me doing the 'push-ups' to keep discs in place down at L3/4/5. Result is I have bad umbilical hernia now! GP told me to lose weight by walking so I now have a bad left knee - wear n tear he says!! You just live with it all. Have mental health problems thru it all-again tried loads. Tablets are often more dangerous - and causes massive weight gain. Now 134kg/21 stone. Don't need wheelchair yet but use one a little (shopping excusions). The surgeon told me after MRI scans that I need to wait until their ability catches up! I'm now 2" shorter; and just live 1 day at a time. Keeping a bit mobile causes pain but keeps things moving. I'm on a host of tablets; but find diazepam brilliant for the muscle spasms - I can take 12x5mg at a time with no drowsy effect. Mind you, whisky is a muscle relaxant too!! I feel for you younger guys suffering - we should start a forum...who's we?
Belinda Moderator
24 June 2008
Hi Mark
Thanks for this
In fact we do plan to set up a forum as the next part of our development
We will keep you all informed
Best wishes
Janice
24 June 2008
I started with back pain in my teens, but I then found out by accident that my bed was causing this - I used to walk around like an elderly lady. I have suffered from back and rib pain for the last 20 years, and take pain-killers for this. However, after falling down the stairs earlier this year, I am now suffering back pain if I stand up for too long, this is since I fell down the stairs. I am now taking pain killers just about everyday now, to enable me to live a 'normal' life. I am only in my early 50's and am determined to carry on regardless of the pain. I feel for anyone that is in more pain than me, it must be so soul destroying.
Rufus Heald
24 June 2008
A lot of back pain is in the mind rather than the back. In my case I have broken my back twice and my neck once - sounds like sheer carelessness. The neck was during a party - I had drunk too much and when barged over I coiuldn't save my self - my fault entirely. The first back was a crushed vertabrae during an ejection from the aircraft I was flying at the time. The alternative was to hit the ground at over 300 knots so I guess I got off lightly. I also broke seven small bones in my left foot on landing. but they recovered OK. The second back break was crashing another aircraft in Hong Kong. Nobody's fault but the fractured skull I got at the same time was more painful. Since then I have occasionally had to use chiropracters with excellent effect. Accupuncture also has helped. Now I get back ache if I do too much physical work - digging the garden for example but at the age of 83 I should have more sense. I just take life easy, pace myself when doing anything which might cause it to ache and laugh at myself when I have to take a rest. There must be thousands who are worse off than I am but think positive and realise your limitations. Good luck to you
Amy
25 June 2008
My first experience of back pain was when i was 13 and for no apparent reason i got all these shooting pains down my legs. I'm pretty sure it was sciatica, but the Dr was a horrible man and laid into me because i was 2 stone overweight. He just told me to take ibuprofen and loose weight. waste of time.
I still suffer from back pain and i have described it as ruining my life before. I am scared when i am out in case my back goes. I had my back go into kind of spasms last year and i was totally paralysed for a day. That's the worst pain i've ever felt and it terrifies me if i get back pain when i'm out in case that will happen again. I got no warning at all. If i feel my back hurting when i'm out, i usually just come home. It can often affect my sleep.
My Dr won't do anything for me because i am overweight. I'm am trying to loose weight but it's hard when you can barely move!
I am unemployed and living on savings at the moment. My back is too bad to get a job, but seen as the Dr just tells me it's because i'm overweight, i can't claim any benefits, so i'm going to be up the creek without a tenner very soon.
I hate my back, it ruins my life and no-one seems to care.
Susijen
25 June 2008
That's terrible, change your Doctor!
Good luck!
Sue
Ian S
26 June 2008
Back pain is debilitating and leads to depression and so on. Weight loss – been there , done it, and it didn’t help. For muscle spasm, I found that diazepam is excellent at loosening off the spasm – alcohol does the same basically.
In reply to Amy, get yourself another doctor. And trawl the internet for the many advice pages on applying for DLA and other benefits. You have to describe your worst day when doing the forms…your weight is more likely to be a symptom of the back pain and shows just how ignorant doctors can be.
Just know that there are many of us who support you in thought
TJ
27 June 2008
Try this site:
www.rebuildyourback.com
This method cured me in 2 months.
Joe Kelly
28 June 2008
I have had back pain for over 20 years, tried many treatments, now looking at fusion or multi-level disc replacement. Found this website www,getadr.com looks like you can get an evaluation pretty quickly. I think I'm giving it a try.
Joe Kelly
28 June 2008
Joan, Yes, the general feeling has been to avois surgery as long as possible, this was due to the poor results and ong term outcomes with fusion, now with disc replacment as an option this will change, much better options, much better outcomes. Also, recoveries are shorter. Check out the options available outside the US, mostly Germany.
Jaxs
28 June 2008
Back pain is so irritating! I have suffered on and off since being a teenager when I damaged my back lifting incorrectly. I am now so used to the everyday niggle that I only really notice it when the pain is severe and I then realise I have pushed it too far. I regularly attend a chiropractor and this has undoubtably helped plus having a waterbed eases it too.
It is one of those things where you do not feel you should bother the doctor with, just take a few pain killers and 'get on with it'. Think we all suffer in relative silence too much as unless it is so bad that you cannot move/walk it seems you may be trying to get 'time off' or 'swing the lead'.
barbara
28 June 2008
Yes you are right, it is an irritationg thing. But from my own experience it
doesn't have to be as there are so many alternatives to try. And as
mentioned in my comment the one that helped me is Dorn Spinal Therapy and it
has helped many others that thought they would have to live with their pain
for the rest of their lifes.
If you want go and have a look at www.backcaresolutions.net
to find more information. Also a book
with simple exercises based on Dorn Spinal Therapy. It is worth a try! Pain
killers are so bad for your body and you might eventually end up with so
many more problems due to the side effects.
All the best
Ian S
29 June 2008
Its you that has to know if you are capable of driving
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barbara
29 June 2008
Ooh, that sound really scary. That means you must be taking a lot of them.
Definitely time to change that.
Pamela Kingshott
29 June 2008
Good Morning, it is so sad to read about evryone's life experiences and how depressing they seem to be in the main. I can only add my comments which, happily, are not. I did not realise my back was causing my sciatica and painful hip problem and , according to GP's , over the years, that I had visited, thought it was an age/arthritis onset. I was 'coping' with the pain for many years and it was not until september 2005 that I was eventually referred to Hinchingbrooke hospital for help and to see if maybe a hip replacement was the way for me to go. X-rays showed that I only had normal wear and tear on my hips.I went back to the consultant who re examined me and manipulated my back and hip. He stood looking at my posture etc., and announced it was NOT a hip problem but my spine. Back to the X-ray dept., for more detailed pictures and there it was a totally smashed disc. The pieces were resing on my sciatic nerves and causing the pain in and arond my hips and down my legs. All this happened at hinchingbrooke in one day in October. I was told by Mr Wojcik, the consultant, that there was quite a long waiting time and probably would not get an appointment for nine months. Four months later I received my appointment for February 2005, went in and had a decompression and fusion of my L4/5 vertabrae, with a little metal cage(!) inserted, and have never looked back. It was for me a miracle cure and, although I still have stenosis of my spine and arthritis throughout the rest of my skeletal frame, I can accept this as part of a natural aging process. I am sixty five and looking forward to cramming in as much as I can out of life now. I might add that I have spent my life as a 'labourer' to my husband hauling 5 gallon paint cans, knocking down walls , mixing cement etc., and being a general 'gofor' for him. We have made our way renovating properties and although he is now a heart patient , we both are ready to continue along this route. So however one looks at it, I have another shot at life thanks to the NHS and Hinchingbrooke hospital , not to mention my consultant's powers of detection and dexterity with the scalpel. Pamela
Roger
29 June 2008
I have had backpain since I fell down stairs @work in the 70's.I have been stretched,given painkillers,been to chiropractor which help a little but stopped as I got arthritis in my spine.The best thing I found to help with the pain is to do exercises (Tai Chi) helps & try to keep your weight down
Simon
30 June 2008
I have ruptured discs in my back on two occasions since 2002. My back seems to have deteriorated with age, and because of my desk-based occupation. All I can advise is keep up regular exercise (walking and swimming are especially good), undergo frequent physio/massage therapy, and where possible be kind to your back (eg sit in posture-friendly chairs, use cushions, don't overdo lifting).
And glucosamine/chondroitin tablets are meant to help.
Never let back pain get the better of you!
Cl0v3r
30 June 2008
I am also