Quote:
Originally posted by yournamehere
In the meantime, have you tried heat, ultrasound, or traction? Do you do exercises to stretch and /or strengthen your back muscles? How about your abs - they support your back a lot.
If you do decide on surgery, shop around and do your research - don't go to a surgeon just because his office is nearest your home, or because your PCP recommends him 'cause he lets him win at golf.
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Thank you. I've tried both heat and ultrasound. I had this treatment in chiropractic care and physical therapy. I exercise on a regular basis (although lately I've been bad because I'm working 12-hour days) and usually work my abs 5 days a week. I do Pilates and have a stability ball, plus I do regular crunch work at the end of my aerobic/weight training sessions.
As for a doctor, I actually already have one in mind should I need the surgery. My mother-in-law had back surgery and she had an excellent, competent surgeon who is on my health plan. Finding doctors is such a scary thing. My husband, who is studying neuroscience, also went and talked to some of his professors about what surgery would involve, since my physical therapist remarked that there is most likely some permanent damage to my sciatic nerve. (Years after the fact, I still have numbness in my left heel and foot pain.) Argh.