Back Problems--Help

[sadlebred]

To make a very long story short (think I've posted this before) about a dozen years ago I was in an accident at work and tore all of the muscles in my lower back in addition to other soft tissue injuries in that region. After years and many physical therapists, orthos, and other things, I came up with a regimen to keep it in check. It includes weekly stretching, weekly core exercises designed by the PTs, regular massage, and generally being kind to my back. I'll tweak it occasionally, but it will be fine within days.

Last Monday I threw it out. I have no clue how I did it. Tuesday morning I woke up with it hurting. I haven't thrown it out like this in a long time. It keeps hurting. I've been taking anti-inflammatories, stretching, foam rolling gently, and I had a massage last week. I've also been laying on my heating pad for an hour in the evening. Cycling doesn't seem to make it better or worse.

Does anyone have any good home remedies or other ideas? If it isn't better or at least making progress by this coming weekend, I plan to go to the non-surgical sports ortho where I go. I'm always hesitant to go since this is a long time ongoing issue. The "cure" is usually the same--give it a few weeks, take Advil, keep foam rolling, etc.

[softspot]

Have you tried kinesio tape yet? It's been a godsend for me, but it also helps that I work with people who can do it whenever I need it.

[hannahb]

Is it getting any better? I don't have any other advice for you since you seem to be doing all the correct things. I'd see the ortho if it's not getting any better. Maybe a stronger anti inflammatory is needed. Or maybe it just needs a little longer

[labbie]

I don't have any other advice, it sounds like you're doing everything you can. I'd give it time, and agree maybe a stronger anti inflammatory would help. Hope you feel better soon.

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[boston340]

I don't have much advice for you, but you absolutely have my sympathy. Back pain hurts A LOT! My mom suffered from back pain (herniated disc) all while I was growing up. She did stretches every morning to strengthen her back - I think she still does the stretches - so she's been doing them for going on 25 years now probably.

[thom]

That sounds awful. Didn't realize you'd had such a bad accident. It sounds like you're already doing the right stuff, so I'd probably get an appointment. Hope you get some relief.

[Wines Not Whines]

I have a history of back injury, too. Back pain is the worst. Have you tried ice or heat? When I'm in really bad shape, I try to get Rx drugs from my doctor.

[Deleted]

I'm sorry. I have issues with my back all the time. All I got is heat, drugs, stretching and rest. That's what I usually do and it helps some.