'My back pain started with pins and needles'
Living with back pain
About five years ago, I noticed a tingling feeling down my right leg but thought it was just pins and needles. Then one day, I noticed I'd lost all the strength in the big toe on my right foot. I didn't know it then, but that's a classic sign of a prolapsed disc in your spine.
The pain gradually got worse. It felt like a bone was jabbing into my right buttock, and I got back pain, too. But I still managed get around.
Eventually, in July 2005, I had my first operation; a discectomy where doctors removed part of the disc that was hurting me. I was told there was a 95% chance the leg pain would go away, and I'm sure it does work for some people. But unfortunately, it didn't really work for me. Neither did another operation to remove more of the disc.
Over time, I've worked out how to manage the pain. I'm a big believer in physiotherapy, and have as much of that as possible. I take painkillers three times a day, and wear special insoles in my shoes called orthotics. These help my posture realign itself. I also do pilates, and find swimming brilliant.
Sciatica can be extremely painful, and one thing I wish I'd done earlier is get some counselling. The BackCare charity has a helpline, and I'd advise anyone with sciatica to get in touch with them.
Denise Gwatkin, 53, New Malden, Surrey
For more information, visit www.backpain.org
5 months
Beth Morton
Denise, You are not alone!! I have suffered with this for the past year. It is aweful. I am nearing the end now. I have also been wearing insoles from Morton's foot dot com and they have helped to realign my spine. I spent months at the chiro with no avail. I just hated the way they treated me. Like it was my fault or somethng because I was 50 and overweight. My biggest salvation was my relationship with God/Christ. He never left me and He didn't ask me stupid questions. I hope this note finds you at peace. Sincerely, Beth Morton Roseville, MN
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