…back, in my case. About 5 weeks ago I woke up with a sore lower back. Not totally unheard of so I went about my business. I played two games of tennis, horsed around with my kids and by evening I was in quite a bit of pain. I had trouble sleeping and my hips started to ache too. Oh well. I’m not 18 anymore so I just blamed it on age. Nothing a few days of taking it easy won’t cure.
Fast forward one week of discomfort and a fateful trip to the park. It was innocent enough – sitting on a picnic table with my daughter on my lap. I picked her up and twisted to put her down beside me and WHAM – my back exploded. Not only did I almost drop her but I thought I was going to pass out. When my husband arrived he literally had to drag me home.
Fast forward another month and a herniated disk later. Here I lie on my bed with my keyboard on my lap, squinting at the monitor across the room. I have not been able to pick up my children, have a bath (don’t worry, I have showered), and I have barely been able to perform everyday tasks such as driving or sitting at my desk.
Also, rarely in my life have I been so down. I have been told by my doctor that if I don’t really make some changes and take care of my back I could be dealing with this for life. Even if I do everything I am told it could take more than 6 months. Patience was never a virtue of mine.
In researching this type of injury and back pain I realize I had a few major things working against me; I am a woman over 30, I have been pregnant – twice, I do a lot of bending and lifting, and I am much taller than the average gal.
The hardest part for me has been having to pass on games and cuddles with the kids. Even bath time, which was always my thing, requires Daddy’s helping hand. When I say "no" to my 2 1/2 year old she asks "is it because your back is sore?" and my 6 year old son has been such a help – picking up items I can’t and even toting his sister around when needed!
I am not at all happy about this but it has been humbling. It has taught me to slow down and appreciate and take care of myself. It has also given me a lot of respect for people who deal with chronic pain or debilitating injuries. Well, as usual, I remind myself it could be worse…a lot worse and I dream about the day when I can bend down to tie my own shoe.
Please share your comments below or email me with suggestions.
Jen
I see your case everyday. I work in an office as s Decompression Therapy Technician.
You need to do some checking into it in your area. Find a Dr. that does Non Surgical Decompression Therapy and go visit with him!