Lower Back Pain

[lainiej]

I have always enjoyed walking and was employed as a dog walker but now I can only walk a short distance before I'm in agony with lower back pain. I believe it is the lumber area and on both sides. I have to stop and crouch down to stretch it out and relieve the pain - I always have to check there's no one around !! Any advice please?

[Sqad]

It sounds like lumbo-sacral strain......a wear and tear problem....take Ibuprofen 400 mgms as an when necessary and continue to do your walking...less distance and at a more leisurely pace.

[lainiej]

Thank you sqad! Will have to use something else tho cos I cant take ibuprofen

[Sqad]

OK..then Paracetamol..............

[Hopkirk]

I suffered a lot of lower back pain, and eventually it was proved to be due to posture.

In particular it improved dramatically when I changed my car. The seat in the old one didn't give enough lumbar support.

Try putting a bolster, or rolled up hand towel behind your lower back when seated. This will not only push your lower back forward to create the S shape needed, but it will also remind you constantly to think about your posture.

Also analyse the seats you regularly use to see if they give enough lumbar support. Have a look in an old peoples home at the chairs the elderly use for inspiration.

Painkillers will only mask the symptoms, not improve the condition.

[Sqad]

Hopkirk

\\\\Painkillers will only mask the symptoms, not improve the condition.\\\

True.....but it is the symptoms of which lainiej is complaining....she wants relief from pain.

All the points that you mention are relevant, but will take time and money to put right.

In the meantime.....she needs pain relief.

[ClinkatyClank]

Massage helps

[Hopkirk]

It would be worth spending time with a physiotherapist, for advice on exercises to help and advice on posture.

Your GP might be able to get you referred for this, possibly as part of a regular class on dealing with back pain.

[pdq1]

You may need an MRI scan. If not wear and tear it could be due to sciatica with a trapped nerve. Some people believe in acupuncture to kill the pain, others swear by the Tens machine which can be bought fairly cheaply.

[worrier]

Try chilli paste to relieve the pain, you can make it yourself or buy it ready made, check on line for yourself and see, or if you can afford it go to a chiropractor I did and I have never looked back!