Disc Herniation L4-5

[Misfit_101]

Hi.

I'm new on the forum.
I have been suffering with my back and leg pain since September 06.
I bent to pick a box up and that was it. In sooooo much pain ever since.
I have back spasms on a nearly weekly basis.

I am 21. I have had an MRI and it showed a large herniation between L4-5.
I have recently seen a Physio who said my referral to them was totally inappropraite,
as I was seen by one before and it provided no help and I was doing the exercises three
times a day. It has really affected my life and Some days I can hardly feel my right leg, and
have intense buring pains in my bum and thigh. I have now had to finally give in and be signed
off work. I have also just been referred to a Neurosurgeon for his opinion.

I was told that it was very unusual for someone my age to get this. So I'm just after some advice on pain management and how other people deal with it, as I'm not sleeping well, and if
I stand or sit for too long the pain becomes unbearable, I've also been told I have muscle weakness in my right leg!

Jen

 

[Star WarsPC]

Hi Jen
I'm a noobie here too.
If you look me up as it were, I have had years of problems similar to yours.
Over the years I have tried many treatments to varying degrees of success. Life became a lot easier for me after finding the treatment that worked for me. That is McTimoney Chiropracty. I am not saying that this will be the best for you. The point is you need to identify what will improve your quality of life before opting for any drastic measures such as surgery. In my experience surgeons are always too eager to cut. I am not saying you shouldn't believe what they tell you, but inform yourself fully before making decisions that cannot be reversed.
Difficult as I am sure it is for you, it is important to move. A simple thing I know, but at one timeI was advised by an "OLD SCHOOL" doctor to spend 6 months on my back to recover. This was the worst period of my life.

Has anyone advised you on the use of ice packs?

 

[Nadir]

Sorry to hear you're in so much pain, Jen. For pain management you could try Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). This is a meridian based therapy where we gently stimulate accupressure points whilst focussing on the different aspects of the issue. For more information please visit the website of the founder of the therapy, www.emofree.com . There you'll come across a 7 minute introductory video that will give you a good overview of the therapy, and find a free manual you can download that gives a basic introduction to the therapy. If you want to get to work more quickly with an expert, have a look at the list of practitioners on the site.

Best wishes,

Sejual

 

[jimmy 1054]

Hi. Yes I have been using Ice packs and was also advised to alternate between heat and ice, so i do that. Moving is important, as I was initially advised to have bed rest, and that was one of the worst parts. Now I am on crutches and try to stay as active as possible.

I really want to avoid surgery if I can! Its too invasive and also really risky, so I'd rather have something moreconservative if I can.

Jen

 

[chuuey]

Hi

I'm new to the forum too. My daughter has prolapsed disc l4/l5, she is just 15. She has been off school for 3 months. She was given
given x-rays by her GP, prescribed Ibruprofen. I pushed for physio and was told that there would be a long waiting list, fortunately my ex-husband has private health cover for her. After seeing the physio a few times he reffered us to the consultant. AFter an MRI they confirmed the prolapse and we have now been sent back for physio whilst waiting to see the Neurosurgeon at Kings in Blackheath. I am concerned that not only is she suffering but also have growing concerns about her state of mind ! She is extremely outgoing, currently has a lead role in her School's show of High School Musical, being confined to bed/home at present, she is not herself. The phsyio is not happy to continue with her until we have seem the Surgeon. Shefinds sitting extremely uncomfortable, so either lays or stands. Is there anyone with any ideas to ease the pain !!
Michelle

 

[Guidarhilia]

Hi Jen,

Welcome to HP .

The therapy I mentioned above, Emotional Freedom Techniques, can help relieve the emotional discomfort your daughter is going through at having her freedom limited and with natural pain relief that's often quick and allows the body to heal itself. I can recommend an experienced practitioner who isn't far from Blackheath if that's of any help. Feel free to PM me if you'd like more info.

Best wishes,

Sejual

 

[carmencita120]

Think about getting a postural assessment from someone who is interested in posture - Alexander practitioner or a (well qualified - Body Control or Pilates Foundation) Pilates instructor or physio. And seek advice as to how correctly to use core muscles - pelvic floor, andabdominals which support the spine.
Good nutrition, hydration, rest,and staying free from unmanageable stress are vital.