Back ache problem- am I the only one?

Question

I've had, what one might call chronic back ache. This is caused by how my lower spine caves in.

This affects me in many ways- I never have 100% restorative sleep (unless I have been drinking alcohol), but see dreams everynight and all the time. I used to slouch, but nowadays I make sure that my posture is upright (as upright as possible, that is). It obviously affects some physical activities and whole-body coordination, where you have to use your back (such as aiming a rifle, throwing a ball, you name it).

My question is, am I the only one that has grown up with a constant dull backache? And if you have been in the same situation as me, how did you get rid of the backache?

Sleeping badly isn't where it ends, and I'm not really sure if a waterbed would be the solution- I've had better experiences with hard foam beds than soft back conforming beds- after all, it is aching when it is in its "natural position".

Answer 1

I think you need to build up the strength in the muscles in your lower back. Start gently and continue to build.

The strange thing is that building up the muscles in your abdomen will increase muscle strength in your back too.

Lay flat on the floor with knees bent and together. Put your hands down by your sides. Now take one of your hands and reach over bringing your shoulder off the floor to touch the floor near your other hand, hold it for a few seconds, relax down and repeat on other side. Don't worry if you can't get your hand to the floor initially, it will come.

When getting up from lying down always roll onto your side first then sit as this stops a lot of strain on your lower back.

To ease an aching back invest in a gym ball (these are large inflatable balls) and lay back over it, first on your front, then on your back.

On all fours arch your back up hold it for 10 seconds, relax and repeat x 10. Then, in the same position, bring your back in the opposite direction (like a saddle) and hold x 10 seconds 10 times.

You would need to do these daily, or more if you can.

Eventually you should see your back become much stronger.

Take up Yoga classes with a qualified instructor, tell them about your back and they can get you to do lots of stretches to improve things.

Hope this helps.

Answer 2

I have suffered from severe back pain for about three years now, and I know how awful it is to be in constant pain.I also have trouble sleeping and doing everyday things. I have been to twelve doctors and two chiropractors, also physical therapy and nothing has helped. I have tried stretching, exercising, pain pills, yoga,ice,heat,massage therapy,and even marijuana for pain management. These things are all quick and very temporary fixes. So far nothing has healed or caused the pain to subside for more than an hour or two. I wish that I could just get better but it is hard when no doctor can figure out what is wrong. You might try some of these things, who knows they may help you better than they did me. Good luck. I truly hope you don't have to suffer as long as I have.

Answer 3

Consult with a chiropractor specialized in Spinal manipulation.

What is spinal manipulation?
Spinal manipulation (also known as adjustment) is a treatment for joints and muscles in the back and neck that are not functioning properly.

Answer 4

Try a waterbed. It comforms to the shape of your back. They make them so that they're 100% waveless now.