Lets talk low back pain/issues

[Looking4new]

I was asked just yesterday if I would share the weight of a 400 lb box with three guys in their late teens. (I am 70) I told them that my Doctor told me to never lift anything heavier than my pecker. They got their own 4th.

 

[Dadnatron]

I was asked just yesterday if I would share the weight of a 400 lb box with three guys in their late teens. (I am 70) I told them that my Doctor told me to never lift anything heavier than my pecker. They got their own 4th.

Both hands... I suspect.

 

[General Lee]

Well This afternoon I had a consultation with a physical therapist. Its hard to make time for PT when I was already in the gym 4-5 days week as is. Even have a decent gym set up in my home. I guess it wouldn't hurt to learn some specific techniques to hopefully improve things and "hold off' surgery for as long as possible. This has really stressed me out these past few weeks and my job is can be demanding at moments notice so that also plays a role with the "what ifs" . I appreciate everyone's input. I had herniated disc(s) (confirmed) since about a year and a half ago but didn't really mess with me to bad. Most of 2016 was fairly decent as far as back pain goes. I also didn't take the time to educate myself on what exactly they are and the repercussions if I don't take the proper steps to deal with them. I'm paying for it now.

Dadnatron - Are you a physical therapist?

 

[skylarkguy]

I endorse Yoga. A couple times a week. Try different instructors until you find one you click with. You can also find online sources but the advantage with working in person with someone is they can critique your form.

 

[TXCYCLE]

General Lee-I feel your pain, literally. Been having back issues for around 25 years. I just turned 60.
Not every fix is for every situation obviously but I agree with Dadnatron, I went to a surgeon about five years ago, discussed options and he sent me to a pain management Dr. I get the facet injections & the epidurals he was telling you about in his post. Works for me about a year then they wear off. It's a day surgery thing, in and out in a couple hours. Definitely worth looking into.
Good luck!

 

[Dadnatron]

Dadnatron - Are you a physical therapist?

I'm a Neurointerventional Radiologist and Pain Management MD

Brain and Spine

You... are what I do.

 

[General Lee]

General Lee-I feel your pain, literally. Been having back issues for around 25 years. I just turned 60.
Not every fix is for every situation obviously but I agree with Dadnatron, I went to a surgeon about five years ago, discussed options and he sent me to a pain management Dr. I get the facet injections & the epidurals he was telling you about in his post. Works for me about a year then they wear off. It's a day surgery thing, in and out in a couple hours. Definitely worth looking into.
Good luck!

My ortho prescribed an epidural. Still mulling it over. In my circle they don't get good reviews. Short term relief at best. But I guess that has to do with each individual person. A year relief you describe would be worth it for me.

 

[General Lee]

I'm a Neurointerventional Radiologist and Pain Management MD

Brain and Spine

You... are what I do.

I tip my hat to you sir. I appreciate your advice. I do have facet arthopathy (sp) and I believe the epidural I was offered was for that situation.

 

[TXCYCLE]

General Lee, you got lucky, you have an expert here to in Dadnatron to bounce questions off of. The past year my Dr. has changed the formula a little-going from 100% cortisone (I believe) to adding something called amniofix. That spelling is probably wrong but that has been the magic bullet-it actually helps the tissue regenerate. Ask about that when you consult with the doc.
Nope, the shots don't work for everyone, nothing does. I heard pros and cons before my procedures too. I just don't see that you have anything to lose except a deductible and a co-payment if you have hopefully have good insurance.
And Dadnatron, God Bless you for your work!

 

[devodad]

Use a copper fit back brace. Helps with my fractured back and ruptured disk. Thin wrap-around velcro strap. Works for me. Coupled with heating pad and therma care. Give it a try