I have a herniated disc. I have been having this problem for about a year now. Ive Tried everything, ESI’s, Rhizotemy, Physical therapy, and have been on plenty of meds. Problem is that i sit all day at work but this makes my pain so much worse. I cant take my meds either because they cause drowsiness. Sometimes its so unbearable, i just sit at my desk and cry. I dont know what to do, I cant ever get comfortable. Please any suggestions on what i can do I feel so miserable.I also have a pain management doc. And got my tens unit when i was in physical therapy. The pain patches i have but dont use very often, i dont think they work very well. And i have had every injection i could get… i answer phones so i really cant Get up and walk around. There not that understanding around here. I can only really leave for lunch and come back….
#1 by Dr Duncan DC on January 3, 2010 - 8:35 am
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It sounds as if you have tried all the medical routes. I can’t give you a diagnosis from just what you have said, but I recommend you give chiropractic a chance. Chiropractors are well trained and have the best results with back pain (http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magaz… Decompression therapy is a great way to deal with herniated disc that some chiropractors will use. I’ve seen it work but some of the treatment recommendations for it seem a bit excessive at some offices. Chiropractors do have a good record when it comes to treating herniated discs.
As far as your work goes you’re in a tough spot. By law they are required to provide a work environment that will accommodate your situation. One of the best options for herniated discs is a desk that raises and lowers allowing you to adjust to stand or sit as needed. The problem with this is that if your employer is not nice/sympathetic or able to provide these types of things then requesting them and citing law is only going to make them bitter and increase the stress in your working environment. It makes it hard.
#2 by formerly on January 3, 2010 - 10:41 am
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There’s couple of things that i have seen people do where i work: One person has a desk that can raise and lower, and she spends most of the time working while standing up at the desk because sitting bothers her back. Another person sits on a big round rubber ball that is slightly underinflated. She says that she can shift her weight and posture any way she wants to avoid positions that cause problems, and she also uses a position that stretches and exercises her back. One other person had their spine operated on and that solved the problem.
#3 by Jacobs Institute on January 3, 2010 - 11:25 am
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You didn’t say what pills/patches you’ve already tried. If you haven’t tried it already, call your doctor and ask for Midrin. It’s used mainly for migraines and tension headaches but also helps with my back and leg pain (I think because of the muscle relaxant ingredient along with the Tylenol).