What’s the difference between chronic back pain and sciatica?
I have been experiencing strong and consistent back pain for as long as I can remember (I am 25 now). It starts with a little discomfort in my lower back, and about 20 minutes later, if I don’t take pain medication, my joints will start to ache on one side (my hip, my knee, my ankle). X-rays show some minor scoliosis and a compressed disc (L4 and L5). So far, orthopedic surgeons are reluctant to do anything or even take me seriously because I’m “not old enough to be in a lot of pain.”
My question is, could this be something more than a compressed disc? I’ve heard mention of sciatica but I have no idea what that is. I can usually catch it before it gets too bad, but it takes about 4 pills a day (Excedrin, Advil, etc) and I don’t think that’s a good long term answer.
And, one last question – what can I say to the doctor to get him to take me seriously?
If you have documented scoliosis and a compressed disc-L4/5, you quite likely have sciatica–pinched nerve at the site of the disc compression–which is causing the pain you feel all the way to your foot. Have you been put on a physical therapy regimen for the compressed disc or fitted for a brace for the scoliosis? I had back pain like yours from about age 28; at age 38, they wanted to fuse my lower spine; I resisted until age 53–what a mistake. I now have permanent chronic pain, “failed back syndrome” and must take very strong pain meds daily. I can no longer function like an average, well person my age. What to say to the arrogant doctor who thinks you’re not old enough to have a lot of pain? “You’re fired!” Try going to a neurosurgeon, getting an MRI to see if there’s more going on (spinal stenosis, for example). Just because you’re young doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be taken seriously. Do you feel like being disabled the rest of your life because of what one jack-ass said to you? You MUST be your own health-care advocate!
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Seat Solution Orthopedic Seat Cushion $14.99 Seat Solution Orthopedic Seat Cushion is designed to relieve nagging backaches, numbness, and discomfort while you sit. It has a special wedge shape with U Cutaway for your tailbone. Made from All New Material Consisting of 100% Polyurethane Foam. Includes black dual sided cover, breathable fabric on one side with stain and water resistant finish on the other…. |
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Can Massage Really Make a Difference? Massage is one of the oldest forms of natural health care. Most of us who are parents massage our children when they feel out of sorts. Those of us in love naturally rub the backs and shoulders of that most important person. A caress, a touch, a pat … massage. Professional massage is structured, educated touch. On this video you will get a taste of a massage session as well as the possibilities … |
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Pain Management and Sports Injuries: Volume 3 – Assessment and Treatment of Low Back Pain and Sciatica With James Waslaski This video shows you a unique multidisciplinary approach to the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of lower back pain, injuries to pelvis, quadriceps and hamstrings. Learn how to address the balance of iliopsoas, quadratus lumborum, and the deep six hip rotators. Learn the relationship between quadriceps and hamstrings on pelvic imbalance and back pain. It also addresses patellar tendiniti… |
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Yoga Therapy for Back Pain $15.70 Yoga Therapy for Back Pain includes 13 routines to help restore proper function to the entire back. These safe and gentle exercises increase mobility and reduce pain. This beautifully filmed DVD features five 15 minute & five 30 minute routines for the upper back, sciatic pain, bulging disk and sacro-iliac joint pain. Each condition is addressed separately, so you will get the proper care for your… |
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Back in Shape $19.95 … |
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Larry Payne’s Yoga Therapy Rx: Common Lower Back Problems $18.99 New DVD! This DVD synthesizes years of research with thousands of Larry Payne’s lower back clients to provide the safest and most effective lower back routines. Addresses lumbar strain, sciatica, disc and other common ailments. Not recommended for acute back problems. This program consists of two routines, a 15-minute routine for people with limited time and a 30-minute routine. Special Bonus: … |
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Penetrex® – The World’s Favorite Anti-Inflammatory Therapy. Pain Relief Treatment For Discomfort Associated With Tennis Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Arthritis, Bursitis, Tendonitis, Plantar Fasciitis, Sciatica, Fibromyalgia, Shin Splints, Neuropathy, Etc. $15.79 Penetrex represents nothing less than a revolution in the treatment of inflammation related repetitive strain ailments including Golfer’s & Tennis Elbow, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis, Bursitis, Arthritis, Plantar Fasciitis, etc. Utilizing a unique topical delivery system, Penetrex delivers Vitamin B6, Pyridoxine, Arnica, Choline, MSM, Cetyl Myristoleate, Glucosamine, Boswellia Serrata and o… |
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Mueller Adjustable Back Brace, Black, One Size $10.19 This adjustable brace provides firm support to help relieve lower back pain without restricting movement. Ideal for back strains, sprains, and moderate disc and arthritic conditions. Designed to provide support during activity to help relieve sore and aching backs. Lightweight, breathable fabric for comfortable all-day wear…. |
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Salonpas Pain Relieving Patch – 120 Patches $4.92 For temporary relief of minor aches & pains of muscles and joints associated with simple backache, arthritis, strains, bruises and sprains…. |
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Teeter Hang Ups EP-950 Inversion Table With Healthy Back DVD $355.51 You’ve seen us on TV, you’ve heard of your favorite athlete using a Teeter… your neighbor even has one. Now it’s your turn to try Teeter Hang Ups®, the inversion market pioneer since 1981. With the passion of someone who has lived through back pain and found relief, Roger Teeter has built Teeter Hang Ups® for superior quality, function and innovation…. |