Nurse woes/back pain

Nurses General Nursing

Published

I recently started a job as a CNA and i really like it. the only problem is, i'm six weeks in and my back is KILLING ME. i'm so distraught because I really hoped to go to nursing school and now I don't know what to do. At the end of every shift my lower back is really sore all the way across and there's tightness in my middle lower back. i've been to a chiropractor, who said it's a thoracic nerve issue (my left leg was also going numb). he set my back, and my leg stopped going numb for about a week but now it's back. i really don't know what to do. it may be ludicrous to even try to go to nursing school with these issues, but if i do, are there nursing specialties that won't put as much stress on my back as where i am now? I'm on a cardiac med/surg unit. We have long hallways as opposed to a "pod" unit. Thanks!

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Specializes in Cath lab, acute, community.

A lot of nurses finish their careers with back problems. Despite correct manual handling technique, there is a risk of back injuries as it is a physically tiring job. Some hospitals will not employ nurses if they disclose a history of back issues.

If you are very keen on nursing, I suggest you get fit, especially with core body muscles. Tone up, loose fat, get fit and give your back a chance to support itself. Core body muscles make a huge difference.

Also, a lot of nurses seek help from physiotherapists or chiropractors. This requires regular sessions, not one or two. Depending on your back injury, it could be a life-long committment.

I would see a neurologist for an accurate assessment of your back and to ensure that the chiropractor is correct, and then start treatment.

Personally I work in a field that requires me to wear kgs of lead each day. It has ruined my back because my posture was bad initially and I was not given this information. Now I have a chronic back injury that has required chiro and physio and daily medications. I like nursing, so I stick with it, but it's good to have a good start.

Also, your body somewhat gets used to the new ways its moving. After a while, after your injury has healed, you may find you get used to it.

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Thanks, I go to the doctor tomorrow. I'll see if she can refer me to a neurologist and then I'll go from there. :)

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