back ache

[SCHUMI]

9 months ago an idiot boy racer flung his car under the drivers side of my bus and I have suffered every since. I have been signed off work this last week and bored bored and bored is the daily feeling..My doctor has told me it could take two years for it to heal the nerves along the spine have been damaged and the muscles around them keep going into spasm to protect them almost sending me to my knees.It is safe to say for the early part of the afternoon the pain subsides but in the morning and evening it is chronic.I am angry at this and it is now beginning instead of healing I believe getting worse.My question is can anybody suggest a pain relieve that hasn't been prescribed by a doctor because they haven't been working and any type of excercise that won't hurt me more?
I have had to stop my dog agility training as I am in too much pain and I am unsure if I go back to gentle horse riding i.e quiet hacks no galloping or jumping if that will hurt my back further.

[makemesmile]

I don't know anything about your beliefs on alternative medicine and the like, but how about Reiki? It's very beneficial at improving relaxation and bringing about a feeling of 'well-being'. Might be worth a try.

And whilst I understand your anger, you must try and find a way at letting it go. I think you understand that this state of mind is not helping you, but increasing your tension and misery. I do feel for you.

[SCHUMI]

I think I 'm more frustrated than angry.I have never been signed off work in my life and the fact that even washing the dishes was an effort the other day was particularly mean.I am bored bored bored. Thanks for your reply though. V. grateful for any suggestions.

[makemesmile]

Is there any hobby/pastime you've always meant to have a go at, were you ever to have the time? I realise you're a bit limited mobility wise, but with the internet, you can have it delivered right to your door.

[SCHUMI]

My darling husband bought me a train set for xmas and I have been working on that.I have been reading a lot this week as well.It is just me I'm a worker I love to work I work on average 55hrs a week and to suddenly stop is a bit of a shock.Thanks though I have decided I'm going for a wee stroll wi the mutts.

[gilby]

I was in a car accident last feb and I still have major probs with my back, The worst thing you can do is be inactive as it will sieze up. I have started swimming at the weekend and i find it helps a lot! It ached at first but i am starting to strengthen the muscles a bit now. Just one thing....... dont swim holding your head up out of the water as you will pull the muscles.
In a morning i sit on a solid seat, like a dining chair and cross my arms accross my chest. Twist to one side without moving your hips and repeat a few times, then do it to the other side.

[mifta]

I had a back problem after years of nursing. About 5 years ago I had an acute episode and was off sick for 6 months. I eventually felt I had to do something so I went to a fantastic place where I attended every day for 3 weeks and it was the most intense exercise I have ever done in my life. I was in agony at the start, but as well as the exercise you have counselling about dealing with chronic back pain. I occassionally have back discomfort now but as soon as I do I increase my activity level and never go off sick. If you stop moving you get associated muscle spasms which can be far more debilitating than the original injury. My advice would be to see a specialist in spinal rehabilitation.