Good vibes needed - possible herniated disc

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

I've had a recurrence of severe lower back pain for several weeks now. I had this back in 1994-95, and it was diagnosed as nerve impingement and treated with steroids and anti-inflammatories. Now it's recurred, and I finally sought treatment for it on Monday. X-rays showed possible disc herniation. I got a steroid shot on Monday, which did nothing, and have been taking muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories since then, which also haven't helped. Today I got a steroid and pain shot and was given prescriptions for pain meds as needed, as well as steroids. I have to have an MRI on Monday to determine whether there is indeed disc herniation.

I feel weird doing this hobbling around. I absolutely LOATHE asking for help. I may have to take a leave of absence from work to address this problem. SIGH. We're supposed to fly to DC Saturday for a friend's surprise birthday party, but I think I'll have to give it a miss.

[Haole Girl]

1. Sending good vibes

Hope you feel better soon! :hug:

[GreenPartyVoter]

2. Oh, I feel your pain *gentle hug* I hope it can be fixed!

[KitchenWitch]

3. Ice your back for 20 minutes three times a day.

If you can, avoid getting surgery.

[soleft]

4. I'm sorry

Steroid shot, is that like a cortisone injection?

I knew two friends in the 80's who had their discs dissolved by enzimes. Do they still treat them that way?

[FlyingSquirrel]

5. Good luck... I drive a bus

Back pain is a fact of life for many of us.

Only things I can suggest (never had herniated disc) is lie on your back with your feet up on a couch. Also ice packs.

[DeposeTheBoyKing]

6. Thanks, everyone

Yes, I got a cortisone injection - 2, actually, along with a pain shot today. I am currently lying in bed with my feet up a bit. We have those "Craftmatic" type mattresses, and I'm trying to find the most comfortable position. I'll have to try ice packs. I don't know what the next step is after the MRI - guess it depends on what that shows. I really don't want surgery - I've never had any surgeries except to correct vision, and I don't relish the prospect. Googling shows that most herniated discs are treatable nonsurgically. I may be in for a course of physical therapy later. I want to avoid just lying in bed all day - I know I need to move around.

In the grand scheme of things this is minor compared to what others are suffering. But it hurts like anything!

[commander bunnypants]

7. hope ya feel better

cb

[applegrove]

8. Sorry for your bad luck. Sending you vibes.