Quote:
Originally Posted by paradisi
I broke my back playing rugby in the 70's - and have suffered ever since. I can walk, used to run and play cricket and touch football in the years after I broke my back.....
as I get older the arthritis sets in and caring for my back is more and more important
couple of suggestions:-
know your limitations and know when to stop
stop at the first twinge - it will only get worse
don't be ashamed to stop doing simple things because it hurts - pride stuffed my back on many occassions
take it easy - the besy thing about gardens are most plants want to live and no matter what you do or don't do they will last until tomorrow when your back is feeling better
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I hope things work out with your back. Everything already said should be helpful. I especially like the quote above. Listen to your body! My first back episode was in 1988. I had back surgery in 1996 (L4-L5, L5-S1 discectomy and lamenectomy). I now have most of my lower back degenerating L2, L3, L4, L5, S1. I have lived with chronic pain since 1996 and it is not fun. It was smart for you to go to the doctor. Epidural injections work for some back problems, chiropractors can help, ice or heat helps some, medication and even acupuncture has helped some people. I think the
first step is to
identify what
your specific problem is then you can use all of the advice you receive including your doctors. Having a bad back has led me to bend, twist and kneel smarter. I don't or should I say can't bend over and dig with a shovel. If I kneel on a pad and use a shorter trench shovel my back does not hurt as much. The pain does not go away. For potting up plants I use a table that is a little higher than my waist. Everyones back condition is different and responds to treatment differently. Diet does play a role in how we feel. Having the right bed is important. Wearing the right shoes makes a big difference. I wear shoes to my office that must be very soft. For me only one shoe company makes shoes that don't aggravate my back. How much you sit is also important. Lastly, the diagnostic test that your doctor uses is very important. X-rays are good but for me the MRI was more definitive. I hope this helps.
Good luck and I hope you feel better!!!!!!!!!