Watch Your Back!
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Move More, Sleep Better and Longer
(Spine-Health.com) -- New research presented at the 22nd Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) shows that “an acute session of moderate aerobic exercise, but not heavy aerobic or moderate strength exercises” can improve the amount and quality of sleep for people with insomnia (without resorting to pharmaceutical sleep-aids).
What exactly does "acute" mean in this context? Merriam-Webster defines acute as “having a sudden onset, sharp rise, and short course”, so “moderate, but not heavy, aerobic exercise” is like a brisk 20-30 minute walk.
In this new research, 36 patients, all with primary chronic insomnia, were divided into four groups:
- Moderate aerobic exercise (e.g. walking)
- Intense aerobic exercise (e.g. running)
- Moderate strength exercise (e.g. pilates)
- A control group (no exercise)
Of the above 4 groups, the moderate aerobic exercise group (exercise walking) showed the most sleep improvements:
- 54% reduction in time it takes to fall asleep
- 36% less awake time during the night
- 37% increase in total sleep time
These findings highlight the importance of moderate physical exercise to help treat insomnia.
In general, about 30 percent of adults are thought to have symptoms of insomnia. It is more common among elderly people, women, and those suffering from a pain condition.
Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, http://www.aasmnet.org/Articles.aspx?id=926Subject: Exercise done in a pain free
Exercise done in a pain free manner to improve circulation and joint health can both speed healing and reduce pain. Less pain equals better rest equals better healing and less pain. Sounds like a good plan. Thanks for the info!
http://www.moveathink.info/exercisesforlowerbackpain
http://www.moveathink.info/lowerbackstretches
http://www.moveathink.info/backstretches
June 20th, 2008
Subject: explore
Criteria for REM sleep include not only rapid eye movements but also a rapid low voltage EEG. In mammals, at least, low muscle tone is also seen. Most memorable dreaming occurs in this stage.
June 21st, 2008
Subject: sleep
The cervical curve, convex forward, begins at the apex of the odontoid (tooth-like) process, and ends at the middle of the second thoracic vertebra; it is the least marked of all the curves.
June 21st, 2008
Subject: Back Pain
Ten years ago I had an MRI showing. Annular tear at L4-5, lumbar pseudospondylolisthesis. Schorl's node at L-2, bilateral sacro-iliitis,osteoarthropathy. I am alyways in pian my feet feel like they are burning and may heels now tingle. Do to no health insurance right now cant not get it check out . Can some one tell me what the above all means in simple words. Thanks
June 21st, 2008
Subject: A New Blog from The Patients Voice – about Back Pain
Dear Friends
Welcome to the newest blog from The Patients Voice. In this blog we are very keen to explore your thoughts and ideas about the experience of suffering from back pain.
We would therefore like to invite you to participate in the blog. Firstly by having a look at the blog and secondly by participating yourself. It is a great opportunity to share experiences and information about back pain.
To visit the blog please go to
http://www.thepatientsvoice.org/Back_Pain/Live_Blog_ver2.asp
Blogs are a wonderful way for patients and their carers to connect with each other. But not just that they are a great way to disseminate information with people who suffer from back pain.
You may also notice that our site has been re-designed so please feel free to have a look at other parts of the site. If you have any suggestions regarding the site please do feel free to email me about them.
Remember The Patients Voice is a great opportunity for you to share with others.
Best wishes
Belinda Shale
The Patients Voice
www.thepatientsvoice.org
June 23rd, 2008
Subject: Back Pain
In 2002 I crushed the pars in my back from L1-L5. I was told it would heal. Well here I am 6 years later and I cannot have a normal life because of the pain. When I try to stand or walk my legs start to burn and my feet will either feel numb, tingle or burn, or all of the above. I get out of bed and I almost collapse to the floor because the pain is so great. I cannot stand straight up when I get up out of a chair I have to ease into an upright position. I am on very strong pain medication. As a matter of fact I have to take 10 pills a day for one thing or another. I am depressed, I never want to leave my house. I have to take Prozac. I don't know how to handle this way of life that I have now. I went to rehab and the therapist told me it was my pain, to own and learn to live with it that there was nothing that could be done about it. Well that took away all hope that I ever did have. I am now scheduled to go to a neurologist to see what he can do and I am also scheduled for a pain clinic. My psychologist has given me a book to read on living with chronic pain. I am just tired of everyone acting as if this is in my head. I have a very supportive family, but I just keep expecting that support to end and I will be all alone with my pain. I don't ever feel suicidal but I do get tired of the pain and think to myself sometime that it would be okay if something did happen to me and I died. Last year during an exam I found out that I was suffering from urinary incontinence which is related to the nerve damage in my back, I have arthritis in S1-S2. The bad thing about all this is I am only 38 years old. I have a teenage son and a 21 year old daughter and two beautiful grandchildren. But they all have to come to me for visits cause I wont leave the house. I have applied for disability and it takes so long that I am afraid that we will lose our house while waiting. I do get a small disability check from VA because I was on active duty in military when I was injured. I just need someone to talk to that is going through this too. Someone that understands the uncertainty and hopelessness and helplessness.
June 27th, 2008
Subject: Understanding
Lynn, I do understand where you are coming from. I am 43 years old and had a failed back fusion in sept 07. I have 2 children ages 16 and 11. I am currently getting LTD and am applying for SSD. Life for me is very hard sometimes. I am tired of always talking about my back pain I am seeing many differnt DRS> and am taking meds to ease my pain, relax, and to sleep. It would be nice to wake up and feel at least 50% better. You are not alone. I think about my bills all the time and wonder what to pay first. Even recieving 70% of my pay is tuff on my family. I live in NJ and day to day living is very expensive try to hold your head up and be strong for your family,they need you.Good luck, I hope that everything works out.........hootie
July 4th, 2008
Subject: back pain
Lynne,
I want to respond and see if I can assist any.
I feel I have some ability to,and will list why...
! I too am suffering from chronic pain
I was an officer in the army yrs. ago
I did get a 20% disability..(for a problem not nearly as severe as you have had).
I am a retired psychiatrist and have seen many people struggling to get disabilities coverage thru Social Security.
First it seems that you should have seen a neurologist,and a pain MD.before now..I am guessing that you have not
Dont know what analgesics you are on that would be helpful to know.Many narcotics,as many as you are needing,can lead to depression...could also a..ffect your urination problems.you need to see neuro..
the" therapist" you have sounds like an IDIOT>What are his/her credentials?
Pain,disability,medications,change in life style can all lead to depression.Are you seeing a psychiatrist who is familiar with these problems? (dont tell me , NO).Prozac is not an instant bullet that can undo all these(and other ) issues...activity as much as possible ,even if painful is IMPORTANT..you can go out it may be hard,but try..passivity also worsens self image/depression.
I had pts. who applied for disability,and I found they did much better with an atty..sometimes they had to go to Soc Security 2 or 3 times befor success
Why dont you have a better military disability? Can you you challenge this?
I would.
Disability should improve if you work on it some...
Will close for now hope this helps.If you give more data maybe I can be more helpful.
ps...if your therapist means "own it" as far as the pain meaning do as much as you can..even tf painful..thats what Im saying...if it is punitive...then as above...He should be helping you with meds,and benefits, and other suggestions,such as pain clinic,or day program...if available...perhaps I was too harsh without getting enough data from you. I apologize...Your therapist may be saying things you dont like...likle get moving...and you may be resisting..which many depressed people do,especially in physical and mental pain
hope I hear from you
Meitus
July 15th, 2008
Subject: Back Pain
Hey Lynn,
I know where you are coming from. I too have chronic pain. I am not as bad off as you, but I am 44 years old and have lost all joy in the things I use to do. I try to put a brave front, but I am tired of all the pain and pain killers that I have now become so tolerant to that they no longer work the way they are suppose to. I have also tried the anti-depressant medicine that is suppose to be good for pain as well, but the side effects were not worth it. (It was causing me problems when I urinated)
I just recently had discography done and they have determined that I have a tear in my L-5 disc. My surgeon is recommending surgery, but I am going to have to put it off until we can save the money to compensate for my salary. It sucks and on top of that my husbands insurance could not come to an agreement with the surgeons office i had been seeing for months so I will need to pay approximately $2500.00 to the surgeon. I am so despondent right now. I am scared that the surgery will not "fix" the problem and then where will I be. And on top of all that they have already confirmed that I have tears in the discs in my neck so I am looking at further surgery in the future. I am only 44 years old and if this all I have to look forward to I do not know if it will all be worth it. I do not want to live my life as a cripple! So as you can see there are others out there just like you.
July 15th, 2008
Subject: Back Pain
Hey Lynn,
Let me start off by saying that I had never had any specific injury that I can lay the blame to. I have just had reoccurring pain running down my leg for years and it usually flaired up once or twice a year. Then over 4 years ago the occurrences became more frequent and lasted for longer periods of time until they just never seemed to stop. Tried all the procedures ( do not recommend radio wave frequency, almost as bad as my discography) and all the other things that every one describes injections, physical therapy. So I know where you are coming from. I too have chronic pain. I am not as bad off as you, but I am 44 years old and have lost all joy in the things I use to do. I try to put a brave front, but I am tired of all the pain and pain killers, that I have now become so tolerant to that they no longer work the way they are suppose to.( I have been on them for almost 18 mos) I have also tried the anti-depressant medicine that is suppose to be good for pain as well, but the side effects were not worth it. (It was causing me problems when I urinated)
I just recently had discography done and they have determined that I have a tear in my L-5 S-I disc. My surgeon is recommending surgery, but I am going to have to put it off until we can save the money to compensate for my salary. It sucks and on top of that my husbands insurance could not come to an agreement with the surgeons office I had been seeing for months so I will need to pay approximately $2500.00 to the surgeon. I am so despondent right now. I am scared that the surgery will not "fix" the problem and then where will I be. And on top of all that they have already confirmed that I have tears in the discs in my neck so I am looking at further surgery in the future. I am only 44 years old and if this all I have to look forward to I do not know if it will all be worth it. I do not want to live my life as a cripple! So as you can see there are others out there just like you.
July 15th, 2008
Subject: PAIN!!!
Hi There
Pain is a scary word to me. I Have Cervical Stonsis and fominal spoydlosis. An bone decease I have been going to a pain clinc since march 2008. I have had more needles stuck in my neck actually 3 different types and they do not tickle.And I never got any releaf,, Well today I went and I got 4 trigger point injections in my muscel around my neck What trigger point injection do is the block the path of pain, And belive it or not I am actually feeling better..
Maybe this is something you could look into.
Go to google type in trigger point injections and they can explain how they work. When you have a lot of pain your muscel tighen up and cause more pain so when you get these injectiond the block pain and start to relaz your mucel and the pian slowly sudsides I am proof
Joni
July 16th, 2008
Subject: Back Pain
I understand your thoughts..I feel the same. Everyday I awake in pain and it sux!! I have been dealing with my back problem for 5 years now and I would love to say it gets better but I cannot.. I had the shots 5 years ago and they worked great..I had two years of a normal life w/ a normal back~ well the pain came back and second set of shots did nothing for me..now for the past 3 years I have lived on pain pills 
.. I couldn't be more un-happy in my life..even though I have a lot of things to be thankful for I feel so alone w/ this pain. It takes you over~I wish I knew y~ the people in my life do not understand nor care I think what I go through everyday! I feel for anyone who lives with back pain as we all know what emotional ups and downs it brings..I have always considered myself a very strong person but if there is something that could get the best of me it just may be my back pain..as I am 33 so I have lots of life left...just what kind of life is it going to be with pain 
If you ever want to just talk I am here, it will be nice to have someone who understands the pain.
C~
July 20th, 2008
Subject: L5-S1 disc rupture
Hi,
I am 41 years old and in relatively good health. I had been a fitness quest for about 9 months and worked my way up to jogging as much as 13 miles at a time at a 8.5 minute mile pace. I was also doing eliptical machine, lifting weights, abdominal work, etc... I was probably in about the best shape of my life. Then one morning I woke up with with a terrible hamstring pain in my left leg when I got out of bed. I had been playing some soccer with my 7 year old son and some neighbor boys the day before but had not felt like I did anything to hurt myself. I found that I could strech out my hamstring and the pain would go away until I sat down for any length of time. Then when I stood up it would come back and I would have to stretch it out again. I could walk without too much pain. Sitting at work everyday and driving a car was uncomforable. After a couple of weeks it did not get better so I went to my doctor. He sent me to physical therapy. After a couple of times I found that it was getting worse not better. I was beginning to get pain in my quadriceps area and gluteus minimus area pretty bad too. Really my whole hip. I went back to the doctor after a couple more weeks. He sent me back to physical therapy. It kept getting worse. After a couple of minutes on my feet pain was radiating down my whole left leg, especially my calf. Just standing at the sink putting my contacts in, brushing my teeth, and combing my hair became a nightmare. Walking into work from my car almost brought tears to my eyes. My whole hip and calf area had so much pain that I could not believe it. I have had alot of mostly sports related injuries in my life and nothing even compared remotely to this kind of pain. I went back to the doctor again. He said that a gluteus minimus injury could radiate pain down the leg and even showed me a picture, so I believed him. For a couple more weeks it continued to get worse. I went back to my doctor a 4th time and told him that I was going to die if he didn't do something for me. He told me that no one had ever died from a hamstring or other leg injury before. I told him I agreed with that but that I would likely die from the self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head!!! He finally said O.K. he would refer me for an MRI. This had all taken about 8 weeks from the morning that the hamstring pain had started. I had been taking Vicodin and Motrin 800's like they were candy and by this time they were only able to knock the pain level down from about a 9 to a 5 on a scale of 1 to 10. I had not had even the slightest bit of back pain this whole time. Absolutely no indication whosoever of any kind of back injury so I was totally in shock the day after my MRI when they told me that I had a severe L5-S1 disc rupture. But they sent me the MRI films and it was so obvious. They said that the L5-S1 area is where all of the nerves going down your legs are and that this rupture was compressing my spinal cord by about 50%. They sent me to a spine specialist the next day who gave me 2 shots of a steriod and other stuff directly in the spine. Within a few days about half of the leg pain was gone. A week later they had me come back for 2 more shots in the spine. More of the pain went away this time. I can now feel a little pain in the L5-S1 area since most of the leg pain is now gone. The leg pain was soooooo bad initially that I couldn't feel any back pain at all. Every time I stand up my left foot still goes to sleep for a couple of minutes but most of the leg pain is gone. They tell me that I can start walking again and doing some light elliptical but not to bend at the waist at all under any circumstances. They say that in 1 month they will look at it again and if my body has not started to eat up the rupture they would like to go in and trim off the rupture. They say that it would very minimally invasive and there would be no fusing or anything. This scares me but we will see at what happens....
July 3rd, 2008
Subject: I feel your pain
Wow..sounds like me telling my story. The way you describe all your pain is very similar to mine.I had back pain over the years from different injuries. In my younger days it was just to go easyfor a week or so til the pain subsided. Well, about a year before my surgery I was doing some work around the house and when I got up.....the worst pain I had every felt. I couldn't move. Well, did the whole route..chiro,injections,etc.Finally, last resort surgery on 4-30-08. L3-S1, lamenectomy,eight screws, two rods, two cages.
I must be lucky or blessed. Pain gone immediately. Walking a few miles a day, back on the elliptical. Going to dr. tomorrow to see if I can start some exercises.
I remember prior to the surgery the feelings that a gun to the head would be some welcome relief. Just my bullheaded attitude kept me going. So glad I did.
So, just hang in there.
July 9th, 2008
Subject: Very similar story
Hi,
My story is so similar to yours. I developed pain a few years back in my right hip after using the eliptical machine. It got so bad this past year I thought I needed a hip replacement. My dr. sent me for hip x-rays which revealed only minimal arthritis (very common for someone 43 years old apparently). At first I just thought, oh well...I guess I'm glad I don't need a new hip! Then I started looking for answers on my own. I thought I had piriformis syndrome, and still believe I do (piriformis muscle runs through the hip and can trap the sciatic nerve) The pain continued to get worse and in March/April of this year started radiating down my leg into my ankle. I was sent to PT with no results. I just had my MRI last week which revealed a herniation at L4 -L5. I'm consulting with a surgeon next week, but like you, very hessitant to have back surgery. Here is what has helped me!!! I found a chiropractor (I'm usually one who believes that they are right up there with voodoo doctors, but desperate times call for desperate measures!) He does something called ART (Active Release Techniques). PT has something similar called MAT (Muscle Activation Techniques). It is basically applying pressure to the piriformis, or what ever muscles are bothering you due to all the compensatory stuff going on, while activating (moving) the muscle. I saw a reducation in pain almost right away after one session of this! I highly recommend it. I too had no pain in my back.
Also, a must read book is by Aaron Filler, chief surgeon at Ceders Hosptial called, Do you really Need Back Surgery? This book is so comprehensive and CURRENT (2007) on options and opinions, and points of view. I found it really enlightening and feel as though I can go to my meeting with the surgeon feeling informed and armed with questions. The last thing I have done to try and take care of myself during this misery is to go to a place called The Migun (Me-gun) Beds. Google this to see if there is a center near you. They are Jade Cryal thermal heat massage beds. Each center has unlimited free massages that last about 30 minutes. They are a demonstration center, hoping you love the beds so much you'll buy one for $3,000, but there is no pressure to buy and they encourage you to use the beds as long as you need to to see if you improve. They are a wonderful comfort and after a session (I go five days a week and started two weeks ago)I have several hours of pain relief with almost no symptoms at all. It's kind of new age, but again, chronic pain opens the mind to try new things! I wish you the best of luck. I feel your pain. This is definately a challenging time for me too. I'm a teacher, so luckily I have a few weeks to focus on healing this summer.
Becky in Colorado
July 13th, 2008
Subject: Re: ACDF & Plating surgery 3 mos. Post-Op
Hello everyone,
I was feeling great until Dec. '07. I was rear-ended while sitting at an intersection waiting for the red light to change. My life, like many of yours, was changed in an instant. I went to E.R. the next day, because I could barely move and the pain in my neck, shoulders, left knee, and back was excruciating! Diagnosis: Cervical, left knee and lumbar sprain. Followed up w/my PCP two days later. Then, started the process of how to treat me. I had 2 cortisone shots in my neck, 1 lanicaine shot in the lower rt. side of my head (terrible headaches started), P.T. for 4 wks.,muscle relaxers & Vicodin. No improvement. In Jan.'08,I started feeling this terrible ache, numbness, weakness, and tingling in my left arm down to my finger tips. I was referred to 2 NS. Finally, 4 mos. later, ACDF & plating surgery. I am under the care of a Pain Spec. and 2 NS. I am frustrated because the pain has not improved, nor has my quality of life. Now, I'm taking stronger meds. and will undergo more tests. Has anyone else at 3 mos. post-op felt this way? To say I am frustrated is an understatement! Would love feedback 
.
July 8th, 2008
Subject: Post-op Pain at 3 Months.
I really do empathise with you and wish you the very best. However, it as only been a short period of time for you. It only takes split second for our lives to be turned around forever. Hopefully, this is not the case with you. Hang in there and remember some of us have been dealing with chronic pain ,busted backs, vertebrae fusions, and all sorts of unnatural stuff to our bodies just to get through the day for a VERY LONG TIME.
Try to find a doctor that fits your problem or at least help as much as possible.
Crabman, 5 lumbar fusions.
July 20th, 2008
Subject: L3, L4, L5, S1 Lumbar Fusion
Hello, New to Group. Just had the above double fusion three weeks ago.
So much was not said and still a lot to learn now that surgery is over.
I have many questions and properly can add a lot of comments to discussion.
I just turned 54 years old, white male and started over 17 years ago with herniated disc, (That is when I was first diagnosed with herniated disc). I was attacked at work 4 months ago by a mental health patient. I stressed my back out of wack trying to keep patient from escapping and then pat. got me in headlock. If I had not had to go for consultation and medical exam, and X-RAYS, would not know what shape my spine has gotten into. Will log in latter to ask many many questions. One question is how long is one really out of work. 2nd question-does anyone have BM probems afterwards?
July 10th, 2008
Subject: sciatic pain/microdisc surgery
I suffered from sciatic pain for eight months. It was so bad that I had to go on extended leave from work. I had re-hab...no sucesss...I had steroid injections..got worse.
An MRI showed herniated disc at the L5/S1 level. It was only a small protrusion, not indicative of the pain I was having. My surgeon believed that there was something undetectable causing the pain. He was right, he removed the fragment shown on the exam and another, not seen, about the size of a pencile eraser. I was dismissed the same day and pain free except for the incision. I would rate it at about
two or three on a ten scale. It is now three days post and no sciatic pain.
alvan
July 13th, 2008
Subject: that is encouraging
Alvan,
That is very encouraging that your surgery appears to have been successful. I will likely have the same thing scheduled in about 10 days. I have a large L5-S1 rupture. I have had 4 shots of steroid in the spine and they initially helped alot. But now the pain level is creeping back up. They told me that they will probably want to go in and trim off the rupture when I go back on the 25th of July. I am terrified of this as I had heard only disaster back surgery stories. It helps to know that all back surgeries do not have horrible results.
Mark in Indy
July 14th, 2008
Subject: back pain
I had my L 2 tranverse fractured in Jan. I started getting so sick I thought I was dying. Pain shoots up my right side into my neck to the point it feels like I am having a stroke or something, and it makes me feel real weird. Is this normal, or is this the type of pain one usually experiences with this problem? I started to go to the hospital again last night. It woke me in the middle of the night so severe it was scary. If it didn't get into my neck, it would not scare me so bad.
Thanks for any info. nanaharr
July 13th, 2008
Subject: to Becky in Colorado
I agree with your comments about thinking it was a hip problem. I thought I would be told that I had some kind of degenerative hip problem like Bo Jackson. I played hockey for years and always seemed to have deep hip bruises during the season. I thought that I must have done some kind of permanent damage over the years. I thought that it would be the end of my professional baseball and football careers! That is if I had professional baseball and football careers! Anyway, I go back on the 25th of July and they will supposedly tell me if they want to go in and trim off the rupture or not. My pain is now getting a little worse again so I would guess they will recommend that I do this. The pain is not nearly as bad as when I wanted to put a bullit in my head every day, prior to the spine shots, but it is definitely getting worse. Thanks for the advice on chiropractics and what book to read.
Mark in Indy
July 14th, 2008
Subject: Back Pain et al
This is my first time at posting anything so bear with me.
A little about myself. Since 2000 I have had pneumonia, two shoulder surgeries right then left for torn rotatar cuffs,open heart surgery and a back fusion at L4/L5 and pacemaker. I had the pleasure of being born with bicuspid valve in my aorta when it should be a tricuspid valve. This was discovered when I was having a physical for the back fusion. I ended up with getting a valve replacement instead of back surgery. Six months later I got the fusion in Oct 2005. It has not stopped hurting since then. It has not been the radiating pain down my right leg. It has been confined to one spot to the right of my lower spine and it burns. To make a long story short 3 seperate doctors, a neurosurgen, a orthopedic surgen and my primary doctor have recommended hardware removal. I chose an artificial valve for my heart which means I take coumadin a blood thinner. This complicates any future surgery but it can be done. I have pretty much made up my mind to have the surgery done. I need some relief. If anyone wants to know more I have written about a ten page journal with full details. Any ideas?
July 21st, 2008
Subject: pain after epidural steriod injection
Hi,
I'm very new to blogging. I had an epdural steriod injection in the L5 region May 20, 2008 for a 3-4mm herniation that caused minimal irritation. But the injection greatly increased the sciatic pain. I still have great flexibility and have lost no function. But I have a lot of leg pain. The doctor that did the injection referred me to another doctor and we are going to do tests. I had an MRI done and the herniation actually went down to 2mm. What the hell is going on? For the first time I'm on nerve meds and a TENS unit. My physical therapist thinks its emotional. She said she can move me in every direction and it does not increase the pain. I thought maybe piriformis syndrome but I have too much flexibilty for that. Maybe the doctor injured my nerve.
I really regret having the injection, but I can't turn back time
Carol
July 27th, 2008
Subject: pain after epidural steriod injection
Hi,
I'm very new to blogging. I had an epdural steriod injection in the L5 region May 20, 2008 for a 3-4mm herniation that caused minimal irritation. But the injection greatly increased the sciatic pain. I still have great flexibility and have lost no function. But I have a lot of leg pain. The doctor that did the injection referred me to another doctor and we are going to do tests. I had an MRI done and the herniation actually went down to 2mm. What the hell is going on? For the first time I'm on nerve meds and a TENS unit. My physical therapist thinks its emotional. She said she can move me in every direction and it does not increase the pain. I thought maybe piriformis syndrome but I have too much flexibilty for that. Maybe the doctor injured my nerve.
I really regret having the injection, but I can't turn back time
Carol
July 27th, 2008
Subject: Nerve pain from an EMG
I had an EMG back in 06 and they hit my tibial nerve and my foot doctor looked at me and thought I broke my foot..it just kept getting worse and more meds then they finally did an MRI after saying it was mental and I was bone to bone and damage to my tibial nerve that was horrible as I could not walk and had to be put in a walking boot for months...I then had to go through back surgery and it happened in 10/06 and now my neck is having two herniated disks as I fell on ice 8 years ago while walking out of a restaurant never dreaming all of this would happen to me..then last week before my last MRI my regular doctor once again blamed mental on my pain when I could not even hardly hold my head up...I got my results back on Friday and then called the neurosurgeons office and the first available was not till the end of Aug but she had me leave a message for the nurse and they got me in on Monday morning first thing..now I am really nervous...and to think my GP just keeps telling me now twice it is all mental...that really messes with you...I am finally changing my primary care doctor and did that last week after my appointment with him...hang in there ...pray for me as my husband is disabled from back surgery and is over 2 million in medical from medical negligience...so it is hard to even think of letting them do surgery on me again...brownc61
here is my blog...http://signsoftimensuch.blogspot.com/
August 10th, 2008
Scoliosis Awareness Month
An estimated 6 million people in the United States have some form of scoliosis, and it affects people of all races, ages and socio-economic classes. Scoliosis is not a disease. It is the term used to describe an abnormal, lateral (side-to-side) curvature of the spine. The onset of scoliosis is usually between 10 and 15 years of age (around the time of an adolescent's big growth spurt). While some cases of scoliosis have an identifiable cause (like congenital spine deformities, cerebral palsy or spina bifida), more than 80% of the cases diagnosed are idiopathic, which means there is no known cause.
Why it's important to be aware of scoliosis.
Catching the beginning of scoliosis in children and teenagers ensures the most options for treating the curvature and slowing or stopping the progression. Children's bones are not yet fully hardened, so non-surgical treatments like bracing are frequently employed -- to not only attempt to correct existing abnormalities, but in severe cases to delay the need for surgery until the child is older.
How do you check for scoliosis and what are the signs?
Most students are given the Adam’s forward bend test routinely in school when they are in fifth and/or sixth grade to determine whether or not they may have scoliosis. The test involves the student bending forward with arms stretched downward toward the floor and knees straight, while being observed by a health care professional. This angle most clearly shows any asymmetry in the spine and/or trunk of the adolescent’s body. The health care professional is looking for abnormal appearance in the spine, hips and shoulders, specifically:
- A hump or uneven appearance in the rib cage.
- Any lateral deviation in the spine (asymmetry).
- Shoulders at different heights.
- One hip more prominent than the other.
What should you do if you suspect you or your child has scoliosis?
Make an appointment to be evaluated by a physician. If a visual/external exam indicates an abnormal spinal curve, the doctor will probably order an x-ray or, if the patient is a child under the age of 11, an MRI to determine the degree of the curvature. A lateral spinal curve greater than 25-30 degrees is considered significant. A curve greater than 45 degrees is severe and requires aggressive treatment.
Want to learn more?
Read more about scoliosis, its causes and treatment options in the Spine-Health.com Scoliosis.
Subject: HELP.....
I HAD AN MRI A FEW WEEKS AGO DUE TO SEVERE PAIN FROM A BAD CAR ACCIDENT.THE REPORT SAID I HAV A DISK HERNIATION AT L5/S1 LEVEL AND A BULGE AT L2/3 LEVEL AS WELL AS A BULGE AT C/6 LEVEL AND ALSO REDUCED LUMBAR LORDOSIS.WHAT THE HECK IS ALL THIS MEANING. I CANT FREAKIN SLEEP,EAT, WORK NOR HAVE SEX.I AM ANGRY ,DEPRESSED AND EVERYTHING SUCKS. I HAVE BEEN GOIN TO PHYSICAL THERAPY ,WHICH BY THE WAY MAKES ME WORSE..I HAD AN EPIDURAL WHICH CURED THE SHOOTING PAIN DOWN MY LEG AND HIP FOR ABOUT 3 DAYS BUT MADE THE BACK PAIN EXTREMELY WORSE.I DID TRIGGER POINT INJECTIONS AND ALSO DISK DECOMPRESSION.I HAV BEEN DOING THIS CRAP FOR MONTHS.NOTHING WORKS.I AM TAKING APPROX 10-12 TYLENOL EVERYDAY,8 MOTRIN,4 SOMAS, AND TONS MORE OF OVER THE COUNTER MEDS.CAN I HAV SURGERY.EVERYONE SAYS DONT DO IT INCLUDING DOCTORS.WHAT CAN I DO.WHAT WORKS AND HELPS CONTROL MY PAIN BESIDES LAYING ON MY BACK ALL FREAKING DAY...THANKS...WEST PALM ,FL
July 4th, 2008
Spine-health launches new Web site design
Spine-health is very pleased to announce the release of our newly designed Web site. In February, we launched part one of our new site focusing heavily on the behind-the-scenes technology platform to enable dynamic content serving, increase site speed, and other enhancements. Today’s release marks the first wave of usability enhancements – new design, new functionality and enhanced navigation. Go ahead and take it for a test drive. The Spine-health library of more than 2,000 doctor written and reviewed articles is now even easier to search and navigate, and we have made important upgrades to our popular Pain Blog, Chats, and Message Boards to improve the user experience for our 10,000+ registered members and regular contributors.
On Spine-health, you won’t find a few articles on a wide range of topics. Our focus and our passion is providing the most in-depth and trusted content on the Web specifically about pain topics like: back pain, chronic pain, arthritis, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis and their co-morbidities such as depression, stress and sleep problems.
Please take a look, and more importantly, tell me what you think. We are working hard to create a culture of constant improvement. Please email me at machler@spine-health.com with your comments on what you like and your suggestions on how to better improve the site. Keep looking, as there will be a lot more to follow in the coming months.
Thanks for your help and support – and don’t forget to sit up straight in your chair :)
Mark Achler
CEO, Spine-health
Subject: Great job. Greg always did
Great job. Greg always did wonderful websites. You're lucky to have him.
June 5th, 2008
Subject: Invitation to healthcare.com blogs
My name is Alexandra Snyder; I am the Content Editor at HealthCare.com. I’ve been reading your blog, Back Talk: Take Control of Your Back Pain, and was really impressed by the content. I would like to invite you to feed your blog to our blog community.
We have a growing community of bloggers, health care seekers and care providers, and are one of the top online health destinations in the U.S. We currently receive millions of visitors each month! By feeding your blog to our site you will expose your posts and work to the millions of users in our network since each post is featured on our homepage. This is a great way to increase traffic for your existing blog or website and gain notoriety.
Best of all, it’s simple, no need to write a separate blog or leave your current blog site. You would simply create an account at http://blogs.healthcare.com and feed your content. Please feel free to contact me if you need help setting up your blog feed, I will be glad to help you.
Have a great day!
June 6th, 2008
Subject: my spine
hello my name is brenda i have a sciatica in my spine and dont have any more pations it first started on my right side and now its going to the left side. i have a spinal inplant it work a little but now i get spasums on my left side so bad it looks like my having a sezur. the pain is so bad my meds dont work any more. if any one can help me it would be nice............
June 8th, 2008
Subject: Re: Brenda
Hi Brenda,
While we can't diagnose you or offer specific treatment recommendations, I can direct you over to our message boards where we have a forum dedicated to Radiculopathy (sciatica and leg pain). You can discuss your problems with our other members who also suffer from sciatic pain, and hopefully you'll find some useful information.
The Radiculopathy Forum can be found at http://messageboard.spine-health.com/viewforum.php?id=31
Also, we have a ton of articles and health videos written and reviewed by doctors that may be able to help you better understand your condition. You can find links to all of our sciatica information in our Sciatica Health Center at http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica or by using the search bar at the top of the page and just typing in "sciatica".
Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help. Best wishes for a speedy resolution to your sciatic pain.
Hang in there!
Carolyn
June 9th, 2008
Subject: NSAIDs - cox-2 inhibitors in particular and bone - spine healing
WOW –
THIS is a GREAT web site – I really, really wish I had known about it before….keep up the great work!
Quick question on Cox-2 inhibitors?
From best I can tell – it has only been recently that surgeons and physicians have had the opportunity to have reasonable concern about cox-2 inhibitors (such as Vioxx/Bextra (off the market) and Celebrex (on the market) and how they may really adversely affect the healing of bones and spines from fracture or orthopedic injury. It seems that, and I guess this unfortunately happens, there was Independent Research (IR) which had been suggesting this since the early 2000s, but the drug companies, for whatever reason, did not acknowledge or move fast enough to take a position on it, do any studies, or say post-marketing followup (unless maybe someone there knows better of what the drug companies positions were…. Vioxx is off the market, so I guess no current issue there, but I wonder if Celbrex could be an issue (but I understand that it is a lot less (up to 9x I heard) potent as a cox-2 inhibitor so maybe not an issue there.
Since the drug companies did not feel it necessary (I guess they look at the overall benefit vs problems, etc.) to look into this, and none of my surgeons or physicians knew anything about it – except for maybe some “murky” suspicion that Cox-1 inhibitors (the first set of NSAIDs), the average surgeon and/or physician just did not really have any direction on what to do – and one cannot expect surgeons and physicians to be reading like crazy all of the IR, and at that since the IR was not backed up by Merck/Pfizer, etc. – they just could not make the connection. And on the other hand, they had patients almost demanding, I’m sure for example Vioxx – even when healing (cause no-one really understood) since it was SO effective at anti-inflammatory relief.
In fact, though there had been (from what I have been able to read) some (just some) concern over Cox-1 inhbitors and the first round of NSAIDs, one of my surgeons just assumed that with the SUCH higher safety profile of Cox-2 inhibitors as advetised by Merck/Pfizer (I think Searle at the time) that surely the Cox-2 inhibitors must be ok – is that a reasonable assumption?
My understanding is that the cox-2 enzyme is “turned off”, inhibited or whatever and that then the body does not tell the “osteoclasts” to “go get the bad bone out”, and then signal the “osteoblasts” to “lay down the new bone” – is that a decent layman’s position.
It would just be so good to know what may have been transpired – though for most the time is well past the standard “statute of limitations” etc. – so not much to do but understand for most, yet there is often great comfort in knowing what happened, so one doesn’t have to wonder forever what happened..
By the way… I did/do not smoke or drink, and I did NOT have osteoporosis – it is questionable if there was any osteopenia, but in general my bones were in very good health. Also, I had a few 100% successful operations BEFORE Vioxx (even a 100% successful fusion of c1-c2 which was life/death and has been fine for almost 10 years now! – thank GOD!
When I had VIOXX (only real change) my lumbar operation failed – and with that early retirement…, then a broken leg never healed – the surgeons just did not know why there was no bone healing to “anchor” the hardware. And above all, my condition, Anklyosing Spondalitis is actually one in which the bones naturally fuse. Is it rue that cox-2 inhibitors have been shown to be fairly decent at preventing fusion also (a potential good thing for some conditions).
If you would like to dialogue with someone that may have had the same problem you did (cox-2 inh. preventing bone or spine repair) - I would really appreciate if I am not alone in this - and could dialogue with someone - please email me at a special easy to remember email I made up - badbonehealing@hvc.rr.com.
I won’t go futher, this is long – but with the concerns about FOSAMAX, that is makes the bones less pliable and older (since it (from what I can see) suppresses the natural body process of healthy bone regeneration, and can stay in your bones for 10 years or so – imagine if one took both cox-2 inhbitors AND FOSAMAX – what might the short, intermediate, and long term issue(s) there be.
I sure hope that the newer approaches (which actually stimulate bone growth rather than interfere with the repair – healing- regeneration process) come to fruition. From a layman’s point of view, that seems to be the way to go.
Sorry for the length of this, but it has been on my mind for so long, and finally I found a web site like yours! – MANY THANKS!!!!!
Dennis Harrison
dharrison6@hvc.rr.com
June 12th, 2008
Subject: does anyone hav any type of answer
I AM NEW TO THIS AND POSTED A COMMENT AND HAVE GOTTEN NO REPLY HOWEVR I SEE OTHERS HAV A REPLY.ARE MY PROBLEMS JUST NOT IMPORTANT TO U ALL.GEEZ......
July 6th, 2008
Subject: PLDD Lumbar / Cortisone Shots
Aloha
Am researching cures for herniated lumbar discs for my daughter who fell last August. Vax-D decompression was working wonders until she fell again due to ankle weakness from first injury. Then Vax-D became too painful and leg/hip pain beyond belief.
She has been in daily pain and once again it is beyond any level of coping.
Thanks for your messages on your previous forum site which I read in full today.
Her Orlando location surfaced Tampa and Hudson, FL. plus NYC and San Antonio doctors. Some want loads of cash up front although she has fantastic insurance now.
Anyone able to attest to success with these centers and/or PLDD (Percutaneous Laser Disc Dempression). She is 35, has no arthritis, no past surgery...missing her active life and really stretching her capacity by working for 2 mos., nearly daily, til yesterday.
Just got new MRI yesterday; first one since second fall.She may have first coritsone shot next week.
Thanks for receiving my inquiry and sharing.
May all your dreams come true!
July 8th, 2008
Subject: New design is very fresh and
New design is very fresh and light. Congratulations!
July 9th, 2008
10 ways to get enough calcium if you're lactose intolerant
May is National Osteoporosis Month, so now is a good time to take a look at your diet and figure out if you're getting enough calcium and Vitamin D to keep your bones strong and back straight for decades after you get your AARP card.
In general, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of calcium (for women -- who need more than men and tend to be the hardest hit by osteoporosis) is between 1,000 and 1,200 mg. A serving of milk is about 300mg of calcium, so you're supposed to be drinking three glasses of milk per day. If you're not, then you're probably not getting enough calcium.
But what should you do if don't care for milk… or if you're lactose intolerant? What if you're counting calories and just can't squeeze the extra into your diet?
Don't fret. Here are 10 tips for adding and keeping that important calcium in your daily routine.
- Quit drinking soft drinks. High phosphate levels in the blood (which can be caused by consuming large quantities of pop) leach calcium from your bones and prevent the absorption of new calcium.
- Get enough Vitamin D. Calcium is absorbed by the body and used only when there is enough vitamin D in your system. A balanced diet should provide an adequate supply of vitamin D from sources such as eggs and liver. Since most people don’t care for liver, go ahead and enjoy your omelets (and add some spinach!)
Don't forget that sunlight also helps the body naturally absorb vitamin D, and with enough exposure to the sun, additional food sources may not be necessary. - Eat your beans (baked). One cup of baked beans has 154mg calcium (remember the target is 1,200mgs/day).
- Canned Salmon. Three ounces of canned salmon contain 181mg calcium. Salmon also is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Calcium fortified foods. Many foods are now calcium-fortified. You can find calcium fortified soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, orange juice, cranberry juice, breakfast cereals, breakfast bars at almost every grocery store.
- An 8oz glass of calcium-fortified orange juice provides about 300mg of calcium – which is about the same as a single serving of milk.
- One cup of calcium fortified soy milk has nearly 300mgs of calcium AND can be used over calcium fortified cereal. Two great sources of calcium in one meal.
- Oatmeal isn't just for breakfast. One cup of oatmeal not only provides 100–150mg of calcium, it is also a versatile add-in to many other foods and can be used to goose up the calcium quotient in your breakfast cereal, added to yogurt, or even mixed in with your favorite baking recipes.
- Eat your veggies... especially spinach, broccoli and dark green leafy vegetables. Kale, parsley, broccoli, spinach and other dark green leafy veggies each provide about 100mgs of calcium per serving. In addition to just making an effort to eat your greens, you can also try substituting raw spinach for iceberg lettuce on your sandwiches and in your salads.
- Go Nuts. Almonds and brazils nuts contain about 100mgs of calcium per serving and are both recommended snacks for people on low carb diets.
- Drink your latte. My personal favorite! A Starbucks Grande latte provides almost half your daily calcium needs and is such a pleasure. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can get your latte made w/ soy instead of cow milk.
If the gourmet fancy coffees wreak havoc with your budget, just mix a cup of regular coffee with a cup of milk (or skim milk to reduce the calories, or soy milk to eliminate lactose) – microwave the milk first to make your homemade latte nice and hot. - Take an Over-the-Counter Calcium Supplement. You can add a calcium supplement like Os-Cal® or even Tums® to your daily routine to make up the calcium gap. Word of caution… Just because a single Tums has 200mgs of calcium doesn’t mean you can take 5 a day to meet your RDA. It is ultimately and primarily an antacid, not a calcium supplement, and as such it can have a detrimental effect on your digestive system if taken long term.
Sources:
- Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse – Lactose Intolerance (http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/lactoseintolerance/)
- Vegan Society – Calcium (http://www.vegansociety.com/html/food/nutrition/calcium.php )
Subject: I didn't know what oatmeal
I didn't know what oatmeal contained calcium. Good to know!
June 4th, 2008
Subject: uncle donald frisco md
if any body can put me in touch with donald frisco md. i am his nephew tim frisco, theresa rose frisco is his mother and is my grandmother. i guess i lost contact with him and my family. i have not talked to him in over 10 years, i would really love it if he could contact me. my number is 17153381124 or 17157552278
god bless, for anybodys help thank you
say hello to my cousins clair and johnny and to my aunt delona.
i miss you all
love tim
June 15th, 2008
Chantix Helps Quit Smoking
Everyone is aware that smoking is not good for your health, but many do not realize that smoking is also closely linked to chronic pain.
In my experience as a spine physician, if a patient has had pain for a long time and continues to smoke, he or she is highly unlikely to find pain relief from any type of treatment. The reason for this is not entirely understood, but it is probably due to multiple factors, such as blood vessel spasms and not allowing oxygen to get to tissues.
For people who are in a lot of pain, this information alone should be good motivation to help them kick the smoking habit, but many patients will need some assistance to stop smoking due to the strong physical and emotional addictive qualities of smoking.
Previously, a drug in the antidepressant line of pharmaceuticals was approved for use in quitting smoking, called Zyban. This drug worked by keeping a neurotransmitter (serotonin) around longer in the brain, which seemed to helped decrease the craving for nicotine.
Lately, a newer drug, Chantix, has been released that has a different mechanism of action. Chantix is designed to bind right to the nicotine receptors in the brain. Many patients even report that after starting Chantix, smoking is repulsive to them and they can’t stand the smell.
Like all drugs it does have some side effects (such as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, nausea, etc…), but the one that has gotten the most media attention is a possible link to suicidal ideation. While this is a concern, it should be noted that many people who are trying to quit smoking are already depressed, so it is difficult to know if this is a causal link or not.
In my clinical experience, Chantix has worked remarkably well, especially for people who are motivated to quit smoking.
By: Peter Ullrich, Jr., MD
Subject: Chantix is a Scary Drug!
I took Chantix and endured horrible mental and physical side effects while taking it, but now it is over a year since I last took Chantix, my severe fibromyalgia-like symptoms are still full blown.
Even though I did sucessfully quit smoking, I wouldn't recommend Chantix to my worst enemy! It ruined my life. I gained 80-pounds because it is too painful to move my body.
I find that on a google search, I am not alone. I found hundreds of other Chantix users suffering the same side effects. But I keep searching, in hopes of finding an end in sight. A year and 3 months now of suffering every day, after being in great health all of my life-----is this permanent? Will I spend the rest of my life inflamed, holding on to walls and furniture to help reduce the pain so I can walk? I am still hoping to find the answer to that question. If anyone knows the length of the term of this, please email me newlightinc@aol.com
Thank you
April 19th, 2008
Subject: so tired of pain
I got hurt on the job in Nov of 2006 went to company doctor he said it was a pulled muscle was released back to work after a week got fired cause I couldnt work cause of the pain in Feb of 2007 went to a new dr and he did cortazone shots they lasted 2 mins and then he did a diskotomey in May 2007 then 2 weeks later I had a sever staff infec that almost killed me when he went in and cleaned out the infect he messed something up cause ever since I've been in sever pain its all my low back left leg all the way 2 my toes and part of my right leg i have been to serval dr's because i kept asking the one who did the sug what happen and what went wrong from one to the other and no one knows anything I'm 26 with a 5 and 8 year old I cant do anything I use to this is getting really old and I recieved a whole 10% on my MMI
Subject: Lower Back Pain
I had a four level fusion in Feb. 2007. I live in Georgia and the weather fronts and highs are killing me. I went to Florida last week and after the 2nd day of getting over the ride my back felt wonderful for the rest of the week. It hadn't felt this good in years. Anybody know why? Is it because the winds of the ocean want let the weather fronts to settle in? I would love to know. Any ideas?
Thanks
July 28th, 2008
Subject: SOME MORE ADVICES ABOUT BACK-, MUSCLE- AND JOINT PAIN
- Variate the way you sit or stand during work and other activities. Any position will exert pressure at certain areas of your body and restrict the flow of blood and lymph through these areas. There is no sitting and standing position that are so physiologically correct that it should be held a long time. Frequent variations of your position will ensure that no body area will get a restricted blood flow over a long time.
- You should however avoid working positions that exert excessive burden on specific body areas, for example position where you must lean forward so that your back is heavily strained. Also avoid positions that heavily restrict the blood flow in a body area. If you for example sit on a too high chair, the front rim of the chair will press heavily up into your thighs and the blood flow to your legs will be heavily restricted.
- Take a break at regular intervals where you walk a little around. This can often be done without interrupting your work. Most people have activities during the day that require sitting, walking and standing. Just blend these activities throughout the day.
- When you are doing hard physical work of any kind, do not have a heavy work load at the same body parts for a long time. Try to switch between task so that you variate your work load.
- Do not do heavy work or lifts that you are not accustomed to by training or practice. If such work is necessary, find someone to help you to alleviate the burden, try to divide the work in smaller pieces or find some tools to lessen the burden.
- Have some exercise for your muscle strength at lest every third day. Weight-lifting is a good method of training up your muscle strength. You do not need to train with very heavy heights to make your muscles and joints much more resistant against wearing and injuries. Moderately heavy weights that everyone can lift is good enough for this purpose. Sport activities like playing ball, skiing or swimming where you use your whole body will give the same positive effect and in addition they will strengthen your condition. Activities like jogging or cycling are good for your lower body, but they must be combined with activities that also strengthen your upper body.
- Take a few minutes to stretch out every day. Have also a good session of stretching exercises at last every third day. It is important to take time to stretch out every part of your body in every natural direction. If your back or some limb is excessively curved or bended toward one particular direction, it is important to stretch out enough time in the opposite direction. Yoga is a good way of stretching out.
- You must take some time each day to stress down to lessen unnecessary tension in your muscles. Sitting down some time and listen to calming music each day can help you to stress down. Some daily meditation is a good method of reducing the stress level. Taking a siesta in the middle of each day is still another method of relaxation and stress reduction. Having a regular good nights sleep of around 7 hours after each day will also reduce your stress level.
- Massaging stiff and painful areas can help to give relaxation, increase flexibility, increase blood flow and speed up the healing process. You can massage yourself or let a friend do it. Using a liniment or ointment that smoothes the massage movements, alleviate pain and stimulate blood circulation will increase the efficiency of the massage. You should always massage in the direction of the blood flow. During the massage, use light pressure at the beginning and gradually increase the force, but do never massage so hard that it feels uncomfortable.
- A good diet will give your joints and muscles greater resistance against damage and stimulate to faster healing of small damages that occasionally occur. Food containing omega-3 fatty acids are especially valuable, like fish, seafood, marine oils, flaxseed oil and olive oil.
Best regards
Knut Holt
http://www.abicana.com/health_information.htm
August 11th, 2008
Subject: Great tips!
Thanks for the wonderful advice. Here are other thoughts:
Most of my patients benefit greatly from taking time away from sitting. Setting a timer or using sticky notes is a great way to remind you to get up and move.
Another thing to look into is properly setting up your workstation (computer and peripherals). Most people have their screen too low and have to reach for their mouse. Making small changes to your desk can work wonders.
Lastly, being fit and healthy really makes a bit difference. Exercise regularly so that your body can take the punishment you dish out during the day, and get good sleep so your body can recuperate.
David Berman, MS, PT, COMT, CSCS
http://moveathink.info/exercisesforlowerbackpain
July 30th, 2008
Subject: should my mom have back surgery at 82
My mother suffers from L4 L5 bulging disk which is compressing a nerve root and causing considerable pain from the thigh down the front of her leg. She also has curvature of the the spine and arthritis. She is in good health otherwise. She has had several visits to orthopedic surgeon who has given her 2 nerve block epiderals which have not helped at all. She has also tried all types of pain medication including Lyrica. No help again. Her docter has told her back surgery including some fusion would be her best bet. I have read and talked to people who had surgery which helped for a while then the pain returned. Adivise please. Mom cares for my dad who has dementia so all has taken quite a toll on her.
Thanks
August 8th, 2008
Subject: Sitting at your workstation
I've been sitting at workstations for over 35 years now. The past 20 years has been almost 95% devoted to 8-12 hours a day sitting at my workstation with one or several computers available. That has been one of the major causes of my multiple flare ups and has been identified by several of my doctors as being one of the reasons I continue to live with pain. But this is my living, this is my life, so I have needed to find ways to deal with this. All the tips that have been mentioned here are so valuable.
Probably the most important one (at least to me and I know to many other computer folks) is 'Getting up and Moving' I know that 45 minutes is my limit sitting at my workstation. If I go beyond that, my Upper thoracic discs start to act up, my rhomboid muscle tightens, my shoulders hunch, my lower neck starts to burn and the stabbing pain starts. So, I have made a point to make sure I take breaks. But sometimes it is so hard when you are deep into work.
One of our moderators, Bruce, sent me a little software tool that is an alarm clock. I use it all the time, I have it set for 45 minutes and it starts to ring. That is my sign to get up, walk around exercise a bit and take at least 10 minutes away from the desk.
That has been just one of the ways I have been able to continue to work in the environment I do.
August 7th, 2008
Subject: breaks from your workstation
Hi dilauro,
Only trouble with this is my boss has told me I am no use to them if I have to keep getting up from my desk to move about.
August 7th, 2008
Subject: Mid and Low back pain
Hello to all,
I am new to this site! I was in a MVA on 4/10/08 I was T-boned. Since the accident I have been in constant and extreme pain. I had a series on MRI's and CAT scans. The CAT scans came back normal and the MRI showed:
L4-L5 very minimal posterior annular fissuring as well as left foraminal and posterolateral annular fissuring without significant disc protrusion.
L5-S1 posterior annular fissuring/microtear with associated tiny central protrusion.
My spine specialist said I have tiny cracks in my discs and they will heal. The pain seems to be getting worse instead of better. I cant bend at all and I have sharp shooting pains in my hips and down the front of my legs to my knees. Usually one side or the other, but sometimes both sides.
I also have a very painful lump on my spine at the thorasic lumbar junction. The first MRI showed a slight amout of disc degeneration and the second MRI came back normal?? I have alot of sharp and burning pain in this spot and also a weird presure and numb feeling. I was told by my doctor that it is due to spasms pushing something out of place and now she recently told me it must be a bone contusion?? I dont understand how I can plainly see this lump in the mirror but the MRI cant see it??
I recently asked my doctor how much longer I would be in pain, it has been over 4 months. She told me it was going to be atleast another 4 months before I am ready for PT..I am taking more vicoden than anyone should and I have built up a tolerance so it doesn't really do much for my pain level any more. My doctor insists it is the best medicine for my condition...I am desperately seeking some answers and advice. I just want my life back!!!
Thank you,
Corina Ackerman
August 14th, 2008