I have mentioned before that I’m having some back issues. I join approximately 75.8 million adult Americans who experience low back pain, and 28% of those have chronic pain. It seems back pain is one of the most common and disabling health conditions globally. At least I am in good company.
I have had x-rays and MRIs and several different doctors have reviewed the films. I have had Dexa scans and echo-light scans to determine the density in my skeleton. All those fun things our doctors order because that’s the thing to do. The process has been interesting to say the least.
Recently I met with a neurosurgeon. His staff was attentive, asking me to turn my legs this way and that and to twist and bend to the best of my ability. When the doctor came into the examination room, he pulled up the MRS and told me I had mild-to-moderate arthritis which probably caused some scoliosis. He recommended physical therapy and pain management. Surgery was not currently necessary, thankfully.
I had just finished six weeks of physical therapy and continued to do as many of the exercises at home as I could. Next, I met with the pain management doctor.
Once again, the pain management doctor reviewed with the MRI. He, however, painted a much gloomier picture. After setting out a plan of action, heavily influenced by health insurance, he started out of the room. On his way out he commented, “You are doing great! Looking at your MRI, I expected to see you in a wheelchair.” What?! How did I go from “mild-to-moderate” to needing a wheelchair?! Which doctor was closer to being correct?
The experiences reminded me that the most important person in one’s health regiment is oneself. Each of us must decide which recommendation to take. In the case of back pain, there are a few things you can do to prevent or to lessen the pain as you get older. The CDC and others recommend tips to help. Following are some that have helped me.
Maintain a healthy diet and weight (for everything, not just your back!)
Remain as active as possible, under your doctor’s supervision
Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest; movement lubricates the joints
Warm up or stretch before exercising
Maintain proper posture
Always listen to your doctor. Ask questions. Discuss solutions. If your doctor is not open to having conversations with you about your health, you may wish to seek out a professional who will. You are in control of the solutions you ultimately use. No one knows you, better than you.
*This post is the opinion of the author and should not be construed as medical advice!
Silver Sage Sisters 