Lower back issues / recovery time sanity check please!
Discussion
Will try and keep this brief!
Had a couple of work related incidents last summer, a fall backwards where I landed on a step that hit my lower right back then few weeks later missed my footing and landed heavy and hard on my right with my leg fully extended. Both caused a bit localised pain for a few days though the later lingered on and was giving my lower right back ache, more so when under compression - ie standing, sitting or walking.
My employer put me through 6 physio sessions which did nothing, their stance was it was tight glutes and to do some stretches however tried acupuncture twice, in essence I suspect it was a boxing ticking exercise only. I was then assessed via Teams, 3hrs later and having confirmed that yes, my mobility is pretty good... it was muscular. Then work washed their hands of it.
I then spoke to a chap who deals with sports injuries who assessed and said there was something amiss, did some acupressure but strongly advised a chiropractor and / or NHS assessment, the later of who I went to see post physio and they prescribed Diclofenac, which did nothing, then also seemed very uninterested and despite me asking if a scan would help pin point the issues, nothing came of that.
Have now paid for a chiropractor, been assessed and had x-rays done and the prognosis is a few things:
The discomfort / pain is likely to be the RHS sacroliliac joint which seemingly has pretty much no movement, likely to be a direct result of the impact a few months back or the fall. LHS is good, movement there, no issues but RHS is a concern. It's also believed this may be caused sporadic nerve irritation which is manifesting in a sort of stabbing, sharp pain which can extend down my right buttock (usually when driving)
X-rays have also highlighted slight degradation of the lower vertebrate, ie the bone that is against the disc isn't brilliant but not causing any concern at present however L5 is showing Spinal Biffida Oculta, which I gather is the vertebrate isn't fully formed but again isn't cause for immediate concern and finally, the L4 / L5 vertebrate are showing slightly iffy bone growth towards the sacroiliac joint, but again not of huge concern. This was deemed as being genetic, however the trigger point and immediate concern seems to be the RHS sacroiliac joint and it's lack of movement, which in turn is seeming manipulating the lower spine and generally, causing discomfort / random feeling of weakness in my legs and lower back and making me crabbit.
Moving forwards and here's where I'm a bit out of touch as needless to say I've been Googling furiously and probably getting in way too deep, however said chiropractor has suggested 24 revisits over the next 5 to 6 months to continue to assess, work on remedial action and carry out chiropractic adjustments - the latter of which was started today with the whole lie on your side, leg up and crack the back stuff but that was all, which I think is good as the previous sports injury guy did also say this whole cracking every joint for YouTube likes isn't good and really, you want to be doing the absolute minimum and going baby steps forwards.
So, really... a bit of a sanity check here / any thoughts from anybody who's got experience or had simmer issues as part of me is quite relieved to at least have some sort of diagnosis and that there's nothing that is causing immediate concern, ie no scary stuff lurking and aside for the injury / issues with the lack of movement in said joint (which can be worked on) the flip side is I am a tad concerned about this moving forwards, more so as I have a very physical job (currently on desk duties pending a review next week) but longer term issues or indeed the recovery process and more to the point, what could make this worse? It's already been suggested heavy lifting / repetitive strain on the lower back should be avoided.
But, 24 revisits... yes it's also spendy at £35 a pop (literally) but if that's what it takes, though I think that number of revisits is what's thrown me as I was under the impression once there's been a few tweaks done, it's then a programme to strengthen and maintain. But appreciate every case is unique but I think I'm just hoping for a bit input / reassurance / advice!
Cheers
Had a couple of work related incidents last summer, a fall backwards where I landed on a step that hit my lower right back then few weeks later missed my footing and landed heavy and hard on my right with my leg fully extended. Both caused a bit localised pain for a few days though the later lingered on and was giving my lower right back ache, more so when under compression - ie standing, sitting or walking.
My employer put me through 6 physio sessions which did nothing, their stance was it was tight glutes and to do some stretches however tried acupuncture twice, in essence I suspect it was a boxing ticking exercise only. I was then assessed via Teams, 3hrs later and having confirmed that yes, my mobility is pretty good... it was muscular. Then work washed their hands of it.
I then spoke to a chap who deals with sports injuries who assessed and said there was something amiss, did some acupressure but strongly advised a chiropractor and / or NHS assessment, the later of who I went to see post physio and they prescribed Diclofenac, which did nothing, then also seemed very uninterested and despite me asking if a scan would help pin point the issues, nothing came of that.
Have now paid for a chiropractor, been assessed and had x-rays done and the prognosis is a few things:
The discomfort / pain is likely to be the RHS sacroliliac joint which seemingly has pretty much no movement, likely to be a direct result of the impact a few months back or the fall. LHS is good, movement there, no issues but RHS is a concern. It's also believed this may be caused sporadic nerve irritation which is manifesting in a sort of stabbing, sharp pain which can extend down my right buttock (usually when driving)
X-rays have also highlighted slight degradation of the lower vertebrate, ie the bone that is against the disc isn't brilliant but not causing any concern at present however L5 is showing Spinal Biffida Oculta, which I gather is the vertebrate isn't fully formed but again isn't cause for immediate concern and finally, the L4 / L5 vertebrate are showing slightly iffy bone growth towards the sacroiliac joint, but again not of huge concern. This was deemed as being genetic, however the trigger point and immediate concern seems to be the RHS sacroiliac joint and it's lack of movement, which in turn is seeming manipulating the lower spine and generally, causing discomfort / random feeling of weakness in my legs and lower back and making me crabbit.
Moving forwards and here's where I'm a bit out of touch as needless to say I've been Googling furiously and probably getting in way too deep, however said chiropractor has suggested 24 revisits over the next 5 to 6 months to continue to assess, work on remedial action and carry out chiropractic adjustments - the latter of which was started today with the whole lie on your side, leg up and crack the back stuff but that was all, which I think is good as the previous sports injury guy did also say this whole cracking every joint for YouTube likes isn't good and really, you want to be doing the absolute minimum and going baby steps forwards.
So, really... a bit of a sanity check here / any thoughts from anybody who's got experience or had simmer issues as part of me is quite relieved to at least have some sort of diagnosis and that there's nothing that is causing immediate concern, ie no scary stuff lurking and aside for the injury / issues with the lack of movement in said joint (which can be worked on) the flip side is I am a tad concerned about this moving forwards, more so as I have a very physical job (currently on desk duties pending a review next week) but longer term issues or indeed the recovery process and more to the point, what could make this worse? It's already been suggested heavy lifting / repetitive strain on the lower back should be avoided.
But, 24 revisits... yes it's also spendy at £35 a pop (literally) but if that's what it takes, though I think that number of revisits is what's thrown me as I was under the impression once there's been a few tweaks done, it's then a programme to strengthen and maintain. But appreciate every case is unique but I think I'm just hoping for a bit input / reassurance / advice!
Cheers
I suffered lower back issues for many years, gave up football and squash as it aggravated the problem and sent it into spasms, had a bit of Chiro that didn’t sort it.
Then took up yoga, it was really quite painful to start with as I was so tight, particularly Lowe back, hips and hammys, took about 6 months but eventually all the issues tha I thought were wear and tear which would be with me for life disappeared and I felt 10 years younger.
It might be too soon after your injury but as a way of staying on top of it once the pain has receded give it a go.
Then took up yoga, it was really quite painful to start with as I was so tight, particularly Lowe back, hips and hammys, took about 6 months but eventually all the issues tha I thought were wear and tear which would be with me for life disappeared and I felt 10 years younger.
It might be too soon after your injury but as a way of staying on top of it once the pain has receded give it a go.
You've injured your back - possibly muscle, maybe ligaments and tendons which take their sweet time to heal. However, you've then turned to (expensive) quackery, and this has no guarantee of return (and may do more harm than good). Both chiropractic (mental) and acupuncture (infection risk) do not have accepted roles in modern medicine nor treatment for back pain. Where they work for some, that is no guarantee of efficacy - confirmation bias and luck are key factors.
This isn't something that can be massaged out, necessarily. It'll take a programme of rehab - strengthening, conditioning and resting appropriately. It's amazing what can be done, even if an isolated area of damage never fully heals, your back is typically strong.
This should always be assessed medically first though, as bone damage, slipped discs and arthritis all shift this advice.
This isn't something that can be massaged out, necessarily. It'll take a programme of rehab - strengthening, conditioning and resting appropriately. It's amazing what can be done, even if an isolated area of damage never fully heals, your back is typically strong.
This should always be assessed medically first though, as bone damage, slipped discs and arthritis all shift this advice.
bangerhoarder said:
This should always be assessed medically first though, as bone damage, slipped discs and arthritis all shift this advice.
Not significantly. 24 sessions?!? Jeez!!
It's not clear from your post (OP) what's happened regarding NHS physio? Pursue that, but be aware for mechanical low back pain scans are limited use and x-rays pointless.
Thanks gents and yes, that's where I'm on the fence moving forwards.
Currently, I've got pretty good range of motion - touch my toes, bend backwards, twists side to side without it really causing any issues and I've been out on my MTB (though nothing too daft) and all without it feeling worse, but where I am getting a bit of an ache and it's exactly that, a dull ache and not a sharp, stop you in your tracks pain, is after walking for a mile or so or sitting / standing or anything where added extra downwards force is applied... like picking up my 4yrs old etc. Going from sitting to standing can give a bit grief and have the sporadic "the legs have gone" sort of feeling but it passes. I've been off active roles at work as the advice is "don;t do anything overly strenuous" albeit, also keep moving which I am.
So hence yes, now feel a bit in no mans land... and I'm undecided if this is mainly a result of the initial injury and subsequent lack of exertion and thus I need to work harder on stretches, strengthening and so on and whether sports physio input would be beneficial (I suspect the first physio was just a bad experience / not interested) and if that alone will benefit and improve. But, post assessment yesterday / today has left me wondering if the issues found are something I need to continue to get professional help with or again if the rather alarming medical terms are really not something that can be improved upon over and above what I can do as far as self help goes. That's the slight dilemma as whilst I'm eager to improve this and et back to an active role at work, ultimately sod work... it's my future ability within life itself I'm bothered about, ie I'm worried decisions made now either way, could have a knock on effect on my life moving forwards, again be it positive or detrimental.
I'm fairly confident at said chiropractor was quite thorough and quite quickly the core issues was identified, ie this lack of movement in the sacroiliac joint on the RHS and that's where the ongoing issues could be stemming from and the x-rays seemed to confirm that, whilst also suggesting there are underlying issues albeit not causing immediate cause for concern and whether chiropractic procedures can help, ie physical hands on "adjustments" along with my own efforts outwith, I do not know. They did seem quite eager to get all 24 (?) sessions booked in and were very enthusiastic about the payment options, but again it's a business but quick mental calculation says that's nigh on £875 over the next 5 to 6 months and whilst you can't put a price on your health, you can if it's not strictly necessary. The other factor is my employer, despite being all about well being and getting your fit for work, doesn't look like they'd be willing to assist financially.
So yes, just quite a lot of information been presented over the past 24hrs and probably trying to unravel the next steps towards improvement, be with or without professional input and if so, to what extent. The irony is, I'd probably live with this as it is now... and now, at at the desk, the lower back ache is building but I can cope, but what is worrying me is if this is going to get worse, more so if physical exertion is making it worse and undoing any good work done... and not just work work, but carrying general day to day stuff like lifting the kids or dragging the bins out.
Maybe a chat with somebody like a sport physio may be beneficial, even if it cost... hmmm...
With regards to NHS physio, as yet not been seen however work did provide 6 private sessions and they weren't that productive - Initially there was some legs stretches, then a bit manipulation around my upper thigh followed by a couple of acupuncture sessions and in the end it fizzled out as I really wasn't seeing any benefit. This was over the course of 8 weeks and in that time I was pretty regimented in self help - swimming, stretches AM and PM, not crazy stuff but in the end they deemed it to be muscular and basically washed their hands of me. Hence, work have done nothing more medically... it's been on me to try and get answers and I knew something was underlying, we're talking 4 months and the ache / discomfort wasn't improving hence finally decided to try a private chiropractor.
I'm willing to put the effort in to help myself, I think the suggestions 24 sessions has maybe thrown me as I was thinking maybe a few sessions to assess, treat, work forward then see how things are... not sign my life away for 6 months and by the time it's all added up, nigh on £1000.
Currently, I've got pretty good range of motion - touch my toes, bend backwards, twists side to side without it really causing any issues and I've been out on my MTB (though nothing too daft) and all without it feeling worse, but where I am getting a bit of an ache and it's exactly that, a dull ache and not a sharp, stop you in your tracks pain, is after walking for a mile or so or sitting / standing or anything where added extra downwards force is applied... like picking up my 4yrs old etc. Going from sitting to standing can give a bit grief and have the sporadic "the legs have gone" sort of feeling but it passes. I've been off active roles at work as the advice is "don;t do anything overly strenuous" albeit, also keep moving which I am.
So hence yes, now feel a bit in no mans land... and I'm undecided if this is mainly a result of the initial injury and subsequent lack of exertion and thus I need to work harder on stretches, strengthening and so on and whether sports physio input would be beneficial (I suspect the first physio was just a bad experience / not interested) and if that alone will benefit and improve. But, post assessment yesterday / today has left me wondering if the issues found are something I need to continue to get professional help with or again if the rather alarming medical terms are really not something that can be improved upon over and above what I can do as far as self help goes. That's the slight dilemma as whilst I'm eager to improve this and et back to an active role at work, ultimately sod work... it's my future ability within life itself I'm bothered about, ie I'm worried decisions made now either way, could have a knock on effect on my life moving forwards, again be it positive or detrimental.
I'm fairly confident at said chiropractor was quite thorough and quite quickly the core issues was identified, ie this lack of movement in the sacroiliac joint on the RHS and that's where the ongoing issues could be stemming from and the x-rays seemed to confirm that, whilst also suggesting there are underlying issues albeit not causing immediate cause for concern and whether chiropractic procedures can help, ie physical hands on "adjustments" along with my own efforts outwith, I do not know. They did seem quite eager to get all 24 (?) sessions booked in and were very enthusiastic about the payment options, but again it's a business but quick mental calculation says that's nigh on £875 over the next 5 to 6 months and whilst you can't put a price on your health, you can if it's not strictly necessary. The other factor is my employer, despite being all about well being and getting your fit for work, doesn't look like they'd be willing to assist financially.
So yes, just quite a lot of information been presented over the past 24hrs and probably trying to unravel the next steps towards improvement, be with or without professional input and if so, to what extent. The irony is, I'd probably live with this as it is now... and now, at at the desk, the lower back ache is building but I can cope, but what is worrying me is if this is going to get worse, more so if physical exertion is making it worse and undoing any good work done... and not just work work, but carrying general day to day stuff like lifting the kids or dragging the bins out.
Maybe a chat with somebody like a sport physio may be beneficial, even if it cost... hmmm...
With regards to NHS physio, as yet not been seen however work did provide 6 private sessions and they weren't that productive - Initially there was some legs stretches, then a bit manipulation around my upper thigh followed by a couple of acupuncture sessions and in the end it fizzled out as I really wasn't seeing any benefit. This was over the course of 8 weeks and in that time I was pretty regimented in self help - swimming, stretches AM and PM, not crazy stuff but in the end they deemed it to be muscular and basically washed their hands of me. Hence, work have done nothing more medically... it's been on me to try and get answers and I knew something was underlying, we're talking 4 months and the ache / discomfort wasn't improving hence finally decided to try a private chiropractor.
I'm willing to put the effort in to help myself, I think the suggestions 24 sessions has maybe thrown me as I was thinking maybe a few sessions to assess, treat, work forward then see how things are... not sign my life away for 6 months and by the time it's all added up, nigh on £1000.
Edited by Davie on Tuesday 4th February 15:12
Sports physio is not (just) massage or manipulation, it's assessment and a programme of rehab (typically). That can have a big impact on the cost - most sports physios will say that they can't massage out the issues - you pay them to advise you how to treat it yourself. Partly how they work out being good value!
You have to put in the work though. No easy solution, and it can't be 'cracked' out.
You have to put in the work though. No easy solution, and it can't be 'cracked' out.
bangerhoarder said:
Sports physio is not (just) massage or manipulation, it's assessment and a programme of rehab (typically). That can have a big impact on the cost - most sports physios will say that they can't massage out the issues - you pay them to advise you how to treat it yourself. Partly how they work out being good value!
You have to put in the work though. No easy solution, and it can't be 'cracked' out.
Yup and I'm willing to up my game beyond my current efforts if needed... my slight concern is that my current efforts (mainly from YouTube etc) haven't really made a significant improvement, as in the ache remains which I what prompted me to question if there was something underlying that wasn't going to get better with self help... truth be told I was off down the "what if it's cancer" and other such bad thought rabbit hole, hence I think I just wanted some sort of diagnosis as it was getting into my head too. I'm not sure if the Chiropractor visits have helped in that sense! You have to put in the work though. No easy solution, and it can't be 'cracked' out.
I think if said chiropractor had said "Let's book in a couple of sessions then we'll take it as it goes" I may have run with it but the 24 sessions and how would sir like to pay maybe put me on the back foot, which in turn has made me question what level of professional input would be beneficial and what would just be a waste of money and time.
Davie said:
Will try and keep this brief!
Had a couple of work related incidents last summer, a fall backwards where I landed on a step that hit my lower right back then few weeks later missed my footing and landed heavy and hard on my right with my leg fully extended. Both caused a bit localised pain for a few days though the later lingered on and was giving my lower right back ache, more so when under compression - ie standing, sitting or walking.
My employer put me through 6 physio sessions which did nothing, their stance was it was tight glutes and to do some stretches however tried acupuncture twice, in essence I suspect it was a boxing ticking exercise only. I was then assessed via Teams, 3hrs later and having confirmed that yes, my mobility is pretty good... it was muscular. Then work washed their hands of it.
I then spoke to a chap who deals with sports injuries who assessed and said there was something amiss, did some acupressure but strongly advised a chiropractor and / or NHS assessment, the later of who I went to see post physio and they prescribed Diclofenac, which did nothing, then also seemed very uninterested and despite me asking if a scan would help pin point the issues, nothing came of that.
Have now paid for a chiropractor, been assessed and had x-rays done and the prognosis is a few things:
The discomfort / pain is likely to be the RHS sacroliliac joint which seemingly has pretty much no movement, likely to be a direct result of the impact a few months back or the fall. LHS is good, movement there, no issues but RHS is a concern. It's also believed this may be caused sporadic nerve irritation which is manifesting in a sort of stabbing, sharp pain which can extend down my right buttock (usually when driving)
X-rays have also highlighted slight degradation of the lower vertebrate, ie the bone that is against the disc isn't brilliant but not causing any concern at present however L5 is showing Spinal Biffida Oculta, which I gather is the vertebrate isn't fully formed but again isn't cause for immediate concern and finally, the L4 / L5 vertebrate are showing slightly iffy bone growth towards the sacroiliac joint, but again not of huge concern. This was deemed as being genetic, however the trigger point and immediate concern seems to be the RHS sacroiliac joint and it's lack of movement, which in turn is seeming manipulating the lower spine and generally, causing discomfort / random feeling of weakness in my legs and lower back and making me crabbit.
Moving forwards and here's where I'm a bit out of touch as needless to say I've been Googling furiously and probably getting in way too deep, however said chiropractor has suggested 24 revisits over the next 5 to 6 months to continue to assess, work on remedial action and carry out chiropractic adjustments - the latter of which was started today with the whole lie on your side, leg up and crack the back stuff but that was all, which I think is good as the previous sports injury guy did also say this whole cracking every joint for YouTube likes isn't good and really, you want to be doing the absolute minimum and going baby steps forwards.
So, really... a bit of a sanity check here / any thoughts from anybody who's got experience or had simmer issues as part of me is quite relieved to at least have some sort of diagnosis and that there's nothing that is causing immediate concern, ie no scary stuff lurking and aside for the injury / issues with the lack of movement in said joint (which can be worked on) the flip side is I am a tad concerned about this moving forwards, more so as I have a very physical job (currently on desk duties pending a review next week) but longer term issues or indeed the recovery process and more to the point, what could make this worse? It's already been suggested heavy lifting / repetitive strain on the lower back should be avoided.
But, 24 revisits... yes it's also spendy at £35 a pop (literally) but if that's what it takes, though I think that number of revisits is what's thrown me as I was under the impression once there's been a few tweaks done, it's then a programme to strengthen and maintain. But appreciate every case is unique but I think I'm just hoping for a bit input / reassurance / advice!
Cheers
Ive had 30 years of back problems and having had private insurance have met some of the best surgeons in the country. The one takeaway that I say to everyone with ongoing back issues is to have an MRI. Without this information nobody really knows what's going on with your back and as a result they are 'having a go' at fixing it.
Most physio's / Chiro's etc will just see you week in week out as you are a pay check. I always say if you haven't found any relief in 5 sessions, your probably wasting your money. Your back may get better regardless and they will claim to have fixed you if your seeing them for months on end.
24 visits is crazy, total waste of money IMHO. If your overweight, lose it. Do exercises at home to strengthen core and try to keep as fit as you can. All helps.
Best of luck OP.
Had a couple of work related incidents last summer, a fall backwards where I landed on a step that hit my lower right back then few weeks later missed my footing and landed heavy and hard on my right with my leg fully extended. Both caused a bit localised pain for a few days though the later lingered on and was giving my lower right back ache, more so when under compression - ie standing, sitting or walking.
My employer put me through 6 physio sessions which did nothing, their stance was it was tight glutes and to do some stretches however tried acupuncture twice, in essence I suspect it was a boxing ticking exercise only. I was then assessed via Teams, 3hrs later and having confirmed that yes, my mobility is pretty good... it was muscular. Then work washed their hands of it.
I then spoke to a chap who deals with sports injuries who assessed and said there was something amiss, did some acupressure but strongly advised a chiropractor and / or NHS assessment, the later of who I went to see post physio and they prescribed Diclofenac, which did nothing, then also seemed very uninterested and despite me asking if a scan would help pin point the issues, nothing came of that.
Have now paid for a chiropractor, been assessed and had x-rays done and the prognosis is a few things:
The discomfort / pain is likely to be the RHS sacroliliac joint which seemingly has pretty much no movement, likely to be a direct result of the impact a few months back or the fall. LHS is good, movement there, no issues but RHS is a concern. It's also believed this may be caused sporadic nerve irritation which is manifesting in a sort of stabbing, sharp pain which can extend down my right buttock (usually when driving)
X-rays have also highlighted slight degradation of the lower vertebrate, ie the bone that is against the disc isn't brilliant but not causing any concern at present however L5 is showing Spinal Biffida Oculta, which I gather is the vertebrate isn't fully formed but again isn't cause for immediate concern and finally, the L4 / L5 vertebrate are showing slightly iffy bone growth towards the sacroiliac joint, but again not of huge concern. This was deemed as being genetic, however the trigger point and immediate concern seems to be the RHS sacroiliac joint and it's lack of movement, which in turn is seeming manipulating the lower spine and generally, causing discomfort / random feeling of weakness in my legs and lower back and making me crabbit.
Moving forwards and here's where I'm a bit out of touch as needless to say I've been Googling furiously and probably getting in way too deep, however said chiropractor has suggested 24 revisits over the next 5 to 6 months to continue to assess, work on remedial action and carry out chiropractic adjustments - the latter of which was started today with the whole lie on your side, leg up and crack the back stuff but that was all, which I think is good as the previous sports injury guy did also say this whole cracking every joint for YouTube likes isn't good and really, you want to be doing the absolute minimum and going baby steps forwards.
So, really... a bit of a sanity check here / any thoughts from anybody who's got experience or had simmer issues as part of me is quite relieved to at least have some sort of diagnosis and that there's nothing that is causing immediate concern, ie no scary stuff lurking and aside for the injury / issues with the lack of movement in said joint (which can be worked on) the flip side is I am a tad concerned about this moving forwards, more so as I have a very physical job (currently on desk duties pending a review next week) but longer term issues or indeed the recovery process and more to the point, what could make this worse? It's already been suggested heavy lifting / repetitive strain on the lower back should be avoided.
But, 24 revisits... yes it's also spendy at £35 a pop (literally) but if that's what it takes, though I think that number of revisits is what's thrown me as I was under the impression once there's been a few tweaks done, it's then a programme to strengthen and maintain. But appreciate every case is unique but I think I'm just hoping for a bit input / reassurance / advice!
Cheers
Ive had 30 years of back problems and having had private insurance have met some of the best surgeons in the country. The one takeaway that I say to everyone with ongoing back issues is to have an MRI. Without this information nobody really knows what's going on with your back and as a result they are 'having a go' at fixing it.
Most physio's / Chiro's etc will just see you week in week out as you are a pay check. I always say if you haven't found any relief in 5 sessions, your probably wasting your money. Your back may get better regardless and they will claim to have fixed you if your seeing them for months on end.
24 visits is crazy, total waste of money IMHO. If your overweight, lose it. Do exercises at home to strengthen core and try to keep as fit as you can. All helps.
Best of luck OP.
Going through a whole load of back pain issues myself right now - similar time scale - and whilst I can’t help with what your issues are, I will say with some certainty be patient, and stay away from Google! And I do literally feel your pain.
Some points to consider (IMO)
if you have any concern that there is a physical injury still present, then ask for a referral for an mri. As above, some conditions will shift the treatment advice. Be cautioned that an MRI will show warts and all, so ignore all the stuff that is just age, and get an overall picture that will shape your recovery. I needed one as worry got the better of me. I was convinced I had something very bad. The MRI (next month) should either guide my treatment if there are issues, or provide the relief I need.
Google will lead you down too many rabbit holes and play havoc with your mind. I needed an answer as to why I was in pain, and it sent me on a 3 month tailspin reading everything and believing everything I read. A lot of it very unhelpful ie ‘do these stretches for 21 days and you’ll be free of pain’ , along with someone else saying ‘don’t do these stretches as they make it worse!’.
Don’t overcompensate your movements. It’s a real challenge, but often if you’re in pain you’ll hold yourself differently to protect yourself. Be aware of this and try to act and move normally in general life. If you compensate, you could make things worse with unwanted tension in your muscles. Your body will learn the new movements which really won’t help.
Easier said than done, but if you think ‘back pain’ every day, then you’ll easily raise your sensitivity to it. The pain will be more present. You’ll then think about it more. A vicious circle. One of the biggest challenges to get around. My mind went on overdrive.
Remember the back is exceptionally strong and can heal well. A 80-90% of back problems sort themselves out without intervention. And a large proportion of the remaining issues can still be treated and sorted.
Where I’m at : and what a lot of people may miss. You may feel it’s relevant, or you may not!
But what can also happen is the brain will want to protect you and in many cases, still create pain signals, even when the injury has healed. I believe it’s quite common, but many will be adamant there must be a physical reason.
I’m going through this right now (Neural Circuit pain). I have pain / really bad aches across large parts of my back that shift by the hour. My body is super tense so have been doing physio (takes me 2hrs a day) for 2 months which is loosening me up. I really dont think I have an injury (I’ll find out with the mri but 2x Physio’s really don’t think there’s anything mechanical) anymore, but my brain is still being triggered and the pain is there.
I’ve started therapy as I’ve had a rough few years (emotional issues) and a whole bunch of things I think I need to deal with. The back pain ‘pushed’ me over the edge at NY and I suddenly realised my body wasn’t relaxing and is permanently stressed.
I’m already making progress and unraveling, and the next few months will be interesting to see if the pain subsides any further. The professionals I’m working with really think it will.
Good luck and hope this been of some help. Don’t despair!
Some points to consider (IMO)
if you have any concern that there is a physical injury still present, then ask for a referral for an mri. As above, some conditions will shift the treatment advice. Be cautioned that an MRI will show warts and all, so ignore all the stuff that is just age, and get an overall picture that will shape your recovery. I needed one as worry got the better of me. I was convinced I had something very bad. The MRI (next month) should either guide my treatment if there are issues, or provide the relief I need.
Google will lead you down too many rabbit holes and play havoc with your mind. I needed an answer as to why I was in pain, and it sent me on a 3 month tailspin reading everything and believing everything I read. A lot of it very unhelpful ie ‘do these stretches for 21 days and you’ll be free of pain’ , along with someone else saying ‘don’t do these stretches as they make it worse!’.
Don’t overcompensate your movements. It’s a real challenge, but often if you’re in pain you’ll hold yourself differently to protect yourself. Be aware of this and try to act and move normally in general life. If you compensate, you could make things worse with unwanted tension in your muscles. Your body will learn the new movements which really won’t help.
Easier said than done, but if you think ‘back pain’ every day, then you’ll easily raise your sensitivity to it. The pain will be more present. You’ll then think about it more. A vicious circle. One of the biggest challenges to get around. My mind went on overdrive.
Remember the back is exceptionally strong and can heal well. A 80-90% of back problems sort themselves out without intervention. And a large proportion of the remaining issues can still be treated and sorted.
Where I’m at : and what a lot of people may miss. You may feel it’s relevant, or you may not!
But what can also happen is the brain will want to protect you and in many cases, still create pain signals, even when the injury has healed. I believe it’s quite common, but many will be adamant there must be a physical reason.
I’m going through this right now (Neural Circuit pain). I have pain / really bad aches across large parts of my back that shift by the hour. My body is super tense so have been doing physio (takes me 2hrs a day) for 2 months which is loosening me up. I really dont think I have an injury (I’ll find out with the mri but 2x Physio’s really don’t think there’s anything mechanical) anymore, but my brain is still being triggered and the pain is there.
I’ve started therapy as I’ve had a rough few years (emotional issues) and a whole bunch of things I think I need to deal with. The back pain ‘pushed’ me over the edge at NY and I suddenly realised my body wasn’t relaxing and is permanently stressed.
I’m already making progress and unraveling, and the next few months will be interesting to see if the pain subsides any further. The professionals I’m working with really think it will.
Good luck and hope this been of some help. Don’t despair!
Davie said:
With regards to NHS physio, as yet not been seen however work did provide 6 private sessions and they weren't that productive - Initially there was some legs stretches, then a bit manipulation around my upper thigh followed by a couple of acupuncture sessions and in the end it fizzled out as I really wasn't seeing any benefit. This was over the course of 8 weeks and in that time I was pretty regimented in self help - swimming, stretches AM and PM, not crazy stuff but in the end they deemed it to be muscular and basically washed their hands of me. Hence, work have done nothing more medically... it's been on me to try and get answers and I knew something was underlying, we're talking 4 months and the ache / discomfort wasn't improving hence finally decided to try a private chiropractor.
I'm willing to put the effort in to help myself, I think the suggestions 24 sessions has maybe thrown me as I was thinking maybe a few sessions to assess, treat, work forward then see how things are... not sign my life away for 6 months and by the time it's all added up, nigh on £1000.
It doesn't sound like you've been well served by the private physio.I'm willing to put the effort in to help myself, I think the suggestions 24 sessions has maybe thrown me as I was thinking maybe a few sessions to assess, treat, work forward then see how things are... not sign my life away for 6 months and by the time it's all added up, nigh on £1000.
Are you waiting for NHS physio? If not get referred, but you may find your GP surgery has a first contact practitioner (an advanced practice physio, seeing GP patients with msk problems) who could help set you on the right track. And the diclofenac - gel presumably? Worth talking to your GP about medication.
I'm not convinced the chiro pointing out "issues" on what sounds like a normal xray is useful. Pain doesn't necessarily mean harm or damage, particularly not 4 months down the line so get moving, don't be afraid to push (steadily for sure, but building your activity) and get yourself sorted.
thepritch said:
Some points to consider (IMO)
Great post and very much reflects where I'm at to an extent and thinking back, through last summer I was getting the odd twinge / sort of trapped nerve stabbing pain having stood up or similar but it'd pass. Then I had a fall which I'm still not 100% sure caused an injury or maybe compounded an underlying problem, but it felt like the trigger point however I'm now going back to the time I fell backwards on to my back and now wondering if that too may be related.The initial physio was poor, I saw no improvement however I also went down the self help route but again saw no improvement so as time has moved along, I had this underlying feeling that something must be amiss as it's always there. I had some hope when I had a first assessment with the sports chap who said I was out of alignment, did some manipulation and it did "feel" better but only for a day or two. It was at that point I started down those rabbit holes and the worry has probably built and hence why I'm now where I'm at.
However, I've gone from feeling quite relieved after Mondays initial assessment thinking that the sacoriliac joint makes sense, ie there being no movement and how an impact up into the RHS pelvic bone could cause this joint dysfunction as it were, which ties in with either my fall backwards or landed on my extended RHS leg... or both. However, post X-rays I was then left holding this "Spina Biffida Oculta" observation and the discussion then moved to these 24 sessions / how would sir like to pay and that's now left me questioning the whole situation again.
Oddly, whilst my lower RHS back arches... and it is just now as I sit here, even with me being aware of posture / not slouching but in some ways I can associate that with muscular issues, ie if I've been compensating for weeks or possibly also not deploying the most effective methods of stretching etc (one of which was touched on by he chiropractor) but I have a secondary pain, feels like an internal bruise and the area around that RHS sacroiliac joint is tender to the touch, hence I feel there's something amiss - but who to resolve is again the unknown.
I've made an appointment with an NHS physio, have seen her before for a shoulder issue and she was great... also non profit thus she won't be suggesting I come back 24 times. However also debating if this is something I should be discussing with my GP, namely the X-rays findings as that's now playing on my mind... more so as I'm quite worried about making matters worse / undoing any positive steps.
My other issue in all of this is the mental side of it all. Whilst I was working, I was struggling some days and becoming frustrated and angry... my role dictates any physical or mental impairment and the jobs becomes very tough. Having the falls felt like it was going to happen, pushing too hard, too long and looking back, both were avoidable but pressure to get success pushed me beyond my limits and I'm paying the price. But work comes second to life and this is bothering me day to day, so yes it's impacting life and work.
The final issue is that work have reluctantly put me on restricted duties so I've been off the engineering / physical side since August and whilst initially it wasn't good, latterly it's become "comfortable" and a few people have observed I'm less tired, look better, my wife says I'm less irritable and being based from home mostly, I can help take the load off... ie stick a washing on, dishes, hoover or even just keeping on top of life, previously my role was very full on, physically demanding and left little flexibility. I'm also not pushing on doing a physical role whilst carrying an injury, but there's a lot of time elapsed and time is running out very quickly hence my desire to try and find a resolution.
I have an OHS review on Monday, employer has facilitated this and I am worried that it's deemed I can no longer do the role and as the current restricted duties are not permanent and can't be, there is a very real concern that this will deem me no longer able to fulfil the role and that may ultimately lead to a termination of contract. However, the flip side is that my wife correctly points out that the demands of the role likely created this situation in the first place and little has changed, so as much as I want to be fit enough to return to the role... I'm not sure I want to anymore not only because I'm done being driven into the ground, but also the role dictates that further injury or rekindling this one is very very likely.
But yes, I think initially I need to better understand what I'm now dealing with be it physically or mentally. I've requested the notes and X-Rays to be emailed over to me, not only will they be needed for the OHS review but I think I want a second opinion. The GP may be the logical step to discuss what what raised and maybe an MRi scan is on option. A colleague has just had one, revealed herniated discs and arthritis so he's now on a similar journey. OHS review... I'll need to tread carefully there. My gut feeling is that no, continuing with the chiropractor is not an option - I've lost faith after it became money focussed but perhaps a Sports Physio to re-vist what I'm doing / understand if there's underlying issues that need taken into account or indeed, if self help is in vain and this is just it...
What a predicament!
Bill said:
It doesn't sound like you've been well served by the private physio.
Are you waiting for NHS physio? If not get referred, but you may find your GP surgery has a first contact practitioner (an advanced practice physio, seeing GP patients with msk problems) who could help set you on the right track. And the diclofenac - gel presumably? Worth talking to your GP about medication.
I'm not convinced the chiro pointing out "issues" on what sounds like a normal xray is useful. Pain doesn't necessarily mean harm or damage, particularly not 4 months down the line so get moving, don't be afraid to push (steadily for sure, but building your activity) and get yourself sorted.
Apologies, I'm getting very wordy here but as above, no I think the physio / support provided by my employer initially as been very poor. I've booked in with an NHS physio but that's not until the 28th, by that time things may have changed. The Diclofenac was in tablet form, I took them for about 10 days and felt no change aside for feeling a bit sick so stopped. I've tried Ibuprofen gels on the area and again, really didn't notice much in the way of relief. A GP discussion is looking like a sensible move. Are you waiting for NHS physio? If not get referred, but you may find your GP surgery has a first contact practitioner (an advanced practice physio, seeing GP patients with msk problems) who could help set you on the right track. And the diclofenac - gel presumably? Worth talking to your GP about medication.
I'm not convinced the chiro pointing out "issues" on what sounds like a normal xray is useful. Pain doesn't necessarily mean harm or damage, particularly not 4 months down the line so get moving, don't be afraid to push (steadily for sure, but building your activity) and get yourself sorted.
I think post initial assessment, I was feeling quite positive that the issue had been identified (ie this lack of movement in the sacroiliac joint) and thus I probably expected the X-ray to confirm this, then we'd have a bit of a plan formed be it some manipulation along with an exercise plan and in a few weeks, we'd see improvements. However, said x-rays seemed gloss over said joint issues and highlighted other factors, degradation of vertebrate and spina biffida oculta on L5 etc. That's now in my head and so I think I need to park the chiropractor route but need to either better understand or go down a new route, a better route... but as the poster above has touched on, I tend to overthink and Google can be very bad, which I why I think I need to be told... or need somebody to identify the issue, make a plan and keep me focussed or I'll be off with a spaniel with ADHD and getting myself in a mess.
Which ironically...
Davie said:
... but as the poster above has touched on, I tend to overthink and Google can be very bad, which I why I think I need to be told... or need somebody to identify the issue, make a plan and keep me focussed or I'll be off with a spaniel with ADHD and getting myself in a mess.
My word. You’re living inside my brain!!!!!! I am now going to identify as a spaniel with ADHD!
I can say for certain anything, or anyone you don’t completely trust, isn’t someone that should be on your team. So yes, it’ll take time but finding those you trust and having them there for you is a very good step. It’ll help save turning to Doctor Google as you’ll have no need to when the trust is there.
One thing to also bear in mind is that it’s easy to follow all the good advice and go along with it but you’re the important one here and you can still choose and argue.
I’ll re-read your post a little later and see if I can offer any more pointers on how to get some clarity.
It’s also reassuring my brain isn’t the only ones who is on overdrive!
Have a look at Stuart McGill,
https://www.backfitpro.com/books/back-mechanic-the...
My physio mentioned him and I got the book and ditched the physio.
Has a diagnosis section but really has 3 exercises to do that help sort out the back, has worked well for me an a few others I’ve recommended him to.
https://www.backfitpro.com/books/back-mechanic-the...
My physio mentioned him and I got the book and ditched the physio.
Has a diagnosis section but really has 3 exercises to do that help sort out the back, has worked well for me an a few others I’ve recommended him to.
but I’d run a mile from anyone who plucks 24 session out of thin air. I’ve never had more than 3 sessions and he’s sorted me out and leaves it to me to book any further sessions - not back though shoulder. Gassing Station | Health Matters | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff