You name back problems, I have them. Untreated scoliosis. Degenerative discs. Sciatica. Trouble with the periformis (sp?) muscle. Radiating pain. Mobility and flexibility problems. I've had this going on for years and have lost at least a year of my life to the pain (meaning I couldn't work or otherwise be a productive member of society).
An MRI last fall after I was again crippled by back pain and sciatica showed a herniated disc. I was in fairly intense physical therapy for three months and have been back at work full time since January. Luckily, I enjoy exercise and that seems to be able to sort of control the pain. However, for six weeks this summer I'm working twelve-hour days and am so exhausted I've been skipping my workouts. Bad, bad Cedar.
Because I'm not working out, the pain is returning. Now, I know the simple solution would be to not skip workouts, but even when I stick to my workout schedule I have pain and flexibility issues. As much as I hate to say it, I don't think the physical therapy was entirely successful, and I'm considering asking my doctor about surgery.
My question is: Has anyone had surgery to correct back problems like mine, including herniated discs? If so, what was your experience like? Has your quality of life improved? How long did it take you to recover?
Thanks for putting up with the long post
