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I am an avid reader of Talkback since undergoing a discectomy in 2002 following a prolapsed disc and hallux
rigidus in my left foot. Prior to and following the surgery I was subjected to painful physiotherapy,
which quite frankly did not yield the results I had hoped for, and finally found relief in taking
Pilates classes and regular visits to a chiropractor.
However, I had to give this all up when, after many years of NSAID drugs my stomach developed a small
hole and turned into acute gastritis. I then had to have a complete rethink of my chronic back pain.
Determined not to go backwards I continue to work and manage the pain myself. My DIY tips are as follows:
- heat, not cold! I prefer to have a wheat filled heat pad which goes into the microwave and
this is heaven-sent for low back or any muscular pain;
- on really bad spells, instead of doping myself up with 4 x 2 strong paracetamol/codeine
concoctions (as recommended by the docs), I take one every four hours, even through the night.
This alleviates any inflammation more effectively and does not leave me so groggy that I
cannot function;
- a herbal rub is brilliant;
- go for a walk – sounds crazy when you can hardly put one leg over the bed but a short sedentary
walk loosens the muscles and the fresh air boosts your well being;
- lose any excess weight – the physical reasons are obvious but the rise in self-esteem
is much more powerful than any painkiller.
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