Treatments for lower back problem L5-S1?

Question

I have a prominent bulge and binular degeneration in my L5-S1 and minimul bulge in my L3-L4.
That is what my MRI states.

I was wondering if anyone has had this problem and what treatments are out there to treat this.

Answer 1

Hi,
Not a doc, but I live with two lumbar herniations (L2/L3, L3/L4) and to date have avoided surgery with a goal of continuing to avoid it. Obviously there is no 'cure', unless you call surgery a cure, but there are things that can help reduce the pain.

First and foremost is weight loss if you are overweight. Second most important thing is to follow a consistent program of core-strengthening exercises. Most people just focus on the six-pack, but it is critical to strengthen all of the muscles of the abs and back, especially those whose job is to stabilize the spine. If you want specific info on that, check out http://www.YourHealthyBack.com .

In addition to core-strengthening, I'm a big believer in my Inversion Table. 5-10 minutes of hanging upside down and opening up the intervertebral spaces seems to help. Might be all in my head, but it sure doesn't hurt.

When sleeping, don't sleep on your stomach. If you sleep on your back, place a good sized pillow under your knees. If you sleep on your side, place a pillow between your knees. This will help keep your spine properly aligned. It goes without saying that you want to spend the money and get a good mattress. We went with a Tempurpedic and I'd never go back to a spring.

On the days when my back acts up, I go with 800mg of ibuprofen and 500mg of acetominiphen and stick an ice pack under my belt. So far, this has kept me from going under the knife.

Hope that helps, and best of luck,
Dave S.
Owner, Perfect Fit Personal Training Studio
http://www.thetruthaboutdiets.com

Answer 2

I had surgery for my L5/S1 because I was in so much pain - no sleep for months, couldn't walk without a cane, etc. I know you are trying to avoid the surgery, so one thing that helps me now if I have lower back pain are exercises to strengthen the back muscles - here's a book that has some great exercises - The Multifidus Back Pain Solution: Simple Exercises That Target the Muscles That Count.

Answer 3

I have a similar problem with L4,L5 S1 &S2, have suffered for over 20years. For the past 4years i have used a tens machine when i know im going to be on my feet for a long time. I personally find this far better than medication. In the UK, i was able to borrow one from the physiotherapist in my local hospital before i purchased one. Be careful using too much Brufen, it can cause gastric problems. I sympathise, good luck

Answer 4

Surgery is a last resort. It doesn't even work in some cases and is expensive and risky. Here is what I recommend for back problems:
First, for acute pain- ibuprofen. Take a long, hot shower first thing in the a.m., then never sit down all day. You can walk, stand or lay down, but do not sit. Sitting is the worst thing you can do for your back.
Then, longer term- take a warm bath, then do varied stretching exercises. Get a massage. Do physical therapy. Do acupuncture. Do chiropractic. Eat a very healthy, low-cholesterol diet, walk daily, and do stretching/yoga daily.
These things all work, but only a little. You need to combine several approaches to really feel relief.
Best wishes.

Answer 5

yep been there done that
avoid driving, lifting etc
stretch regularly and if muscle spasms in response to bulge lie flat as long as possible until muscle relaxes
spend time in pool as it alleviates pain without using drugs
if it gets too much see a neurosurgeon and get a spinal injection (it usually works within a day to remove pain and sometimes lasts many months)
the surgery optin may fix lower problem but will put more pressure on upper discs
i tried many many things but management is best option as the rings around discs cannot self heal
just so you know i have had this for 20 years and still surf so keep your chin up

Answer 6

I prefer Naproxen to ibuprofen. It lasts longer. I am sure a chiropractor (or orthopedic physician) would have idea$ on treatment, but a chiropractor told me walking was good, and driving was bad.

You can also try
(googled back stretching)
http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/ss/BackStretches.htm
and
http://www.spine-health.com/topics/conserv/overview/exercise/ex01.html

Answer 7

Yep, wear a brace, use heat when you can (at night when you are sitting) take ibuprophen it helps and always always be careful how you pick up stuff. even bending to pick up a penny if not done right can hurt.

What does your DR say?

al 4 now B