my aching back!!!

inspir8tion · Jul 24, 2007

A couple of things may help. Sit down whenever you can. Also, do sit-ups, it will strengthen your back. And the last thing is, you do get used to it. Took me a long time to get used to it though. Oh, and get a massage if you can!

ewattsjt · Jul 24, 2007

i have had l3-s1 fused so i know how you feel. i also have problems from swelling and stenosis (i will eventually need a revision).

a good pair of supporting shoes is a must. i pay the extra $ for some of the god ugliest shoes, but they give me support. some say crocks but they have not helped me. i like rockport or sas.

inspir8tion is on the money about the massage. i also get massage from a reputable therapist once per month (also worth the money {make sure they are certified/licensed}). my therapist gives extra time to my back because she knows of my problems.

sit when you can but when you can’t sit (like when scrubbed in), change your stance. if you need to, ask for a step and use it to “prop” one foot on or just step on the mayo foot (being careful not to release it on certain brands).

also when i know i will be standing all day (ironically i do major spine procedures twice per week), i will take a form of otc naproxen sodium (aleve) to get a jump on the swelling and pain.

exercise will help but walking is the best exercise for a back that one can do. sit ups will build the abdominal muscles and lend extra support to the back but the movement from walking (paced walking not leisure) will build the muscles of the spinal column itself.

unfortunately there is no correct answer. different things work better for others. it will truly be something that you will have to try and see what works best for you.

i hope you find something that works well for you!!!

IsseyM · Jul 27, 2007

Like the others said, get a massage regularly this really helps alot! Soak in a hot bath tub with epsom salt or dead sea salt. Use a warm heating gel pad, one you can microwave to a desired temperature. Try tiger balm. Do exercises to strengthen your back, also do exercises to strengthen your core muscles. I'm sure if you search on the net for some home exercises you'll be able to find some. Good luck!

IsseyM

RNERHOUSESUPOR · Jul 29, 2007

I used to be plagued with low back pain but then I found Inversion. First saw the table on TV one of those nights when sleep just wouldn't come and I was flipping through the channels. Have had a Stamina inversion table for going on 5 years now and have not missed a day of work due to back pain. I used to have to take 3 or 4 days off every 6 to 8 months when I couldn't ambulate. I recommended the table to a Cardiologist friend and she has purchased a table for the Cath Lab. Now if I get called in early and don't have the chance to Invert before going to work I am able to relieve my stress during a short break at work. It has made a remarkable difference for me.

ewattsjt · Jul 29, 2007

I have a friend who swears by the table. I have never tried it. Her husband is a farmer and she bought it for him but she uses it more than him now.

pamc217 · Jul 29, 2007

my husband has an inversion table but i havent tried it, ill have to try it. thanks

bifurcated · Jul 30, 2007

hi guys
im new to the OR and obviously not used to being on my feet for so long. I get this pain across my mid back, does anyone have an idea of what to do??? I do have support socks, not prescription. Does it go away some day as I get used to it?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Pam:monkeydance:

Lots of good suggestions I didn't see stretching in there anywhere. It helps so very much! I know a few people who have tried the MBT shoes.... expensive but they swear by them. Good luck