Managing Back Issues: My Journey to Relief

Question:

I'm curious how many people out there are dealing with back issues and how you manage them. Like many men of my generation, I made some questionable choices when I was younger that have led to a troublesome back. One of those choices was playing Rugby Union, a sport not known for its back-friendly nature. Nowadays, I often find myself browsing HEF in the early hours of the morning because I can't sleep due to the discomfort in my back. To address my back issues, I regularly visit a chiropractor, undergo Bowen therapy, and have recently started taking Glucosamine. Thankfully, I no longer have to spend all day on my feet now that I have some of my team members trained to operate machinery. I typically handle block laying in the mornings and then switch to operating the machine in the afternoons to stay more active. I recall a time when I spent days operating heavy machinery in a gravel pit and could barely walk after a 10-hour shift. It was a tough experience.

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I simply live with it without taking any action. Dealing with chronic pain in my knees, elbows, shoulders, and neck has become a daily struggle.

PSDF350 mentioned that they simply live with the various health issues like bad knees, elbows, shoulders, and neck. In addition to those, they also deal with hearing loss, failing eyesight, and memory issues, along with challenges like weight gain and high cholesterol. The inspiration for starting this thread came from KoO's stack of tires!

In 1992, at the age of 27, I injured my back while working on a truck. The incident occurred while I was securing a tarp on my trailer at Granite's yard in Mojave. I attempted a risky stunt, inspired by Superman, and ended up damaging my tie rod ends and bending a spring. Since then, I have experienced numbness in my hands and arms, especially when sitting a certain way. Sleep is often disrupted as my arms or hands go numb during the night, requiring me to readjust. Despite doctors' warnings that my back will not improve and surgery is the only solution, I have chosen to manage the pain without surgery. This injury has restricted my ability to operate certain machinery and affects my grip strength, leading to frustration when tools slip from my hands. Despite trying various medications, I have learned to cope with the pain over the years, particularly due to regular drug testing regulations.

Hello Squizzy, I'm taking a break at my desk after a morning of hard work. I spent the day hand-raking, shovel loading, and spreading gravel, as well as picking up decorative stone and blocks, and doing some painting inside the house. Like you, I spent my youth playing football and hockey, and working in farm fields picking pickles and potatoes. Unfortunately, a serious accident in 1964 left me with a cracked vertebra in my neck and lasting back pain. Despite my injuries, I joined the Navy in 1966. Over the years, I've faced more challenges, including falling trees, operating heavy equipment, and even being shot at. I was diagnosed with severe rheumatoid arthritis in 2001, which has been a constant struggle. I underwent knee replacement surgery in 2004, which helped with the constant pain. However, my back continues to be a source of discomfort, worsened by arthritis and excess weight gained over the years. Although losing weight could potentially alleviate some of the back pain, it's been a challenge. I've tried various medications and treatments for the pain, including aspirin, Naproxen, and expensive arthritis medications. Despite facing setbacks such as Diverticulitis and a perforated colon, I continue to manage my condition with medical assistance. Following a recent bout with Valley Fever, I've had to adjust my medications due to a compromised immune system. While my RA factor has improved, I still experience pain, especially when I overexert myself. I'm gradually reducing my use of Prednisone, which has been difficult. My brother also suffered from arthritis and tried numerous remedies without much success. I've been cautious about trying new treatments and always consult with my doctor before making any changes. Peripheral Neuropathy, which causes numbness in feet and hands, is a common issue I share with others. Fortunately, I've recovered from recent health challenges and am hopeful to return to work soon. Operating heavy machinery can be physically demanding, but I'm determined to continue working as long as I can handle it. Good luck to you too, Squizzy!

Surfer Joe reminisced about his adventurous youth spent playing football and hockey, as well as working in farm fields harvesting pickles and potatoes. Growing up on a potato farm, he excelled at lifting heavy bags and even constructed a loader for a Massey Ferguson. Despite his physical abilities, he faced challenges when entering the Navy due to flat feet. Over the years, he has survived numerous accidents and injuries, including being shot at and crushed by falling trees, all while operating heavy equipment. Battling chronic pain, he has tried various treatments, including expensive arthritis medications and painkillers, but faced complications like Diverticulitis and a perforated colon. He warns of the dangers of anti-inflammatory drugs and advises caution when using them. Find a good chiropractor who understands your body to help alleviate pain and improve overall health. Stay well, Joe.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. How can I manage back issues caused by sports injuries or strenuous activities?

Answer: Answer: Managing back issues caused by sports injuries or strenuous activities may involve seeking treatment from a chiropractor, undergoing therapies like Bowen therapy, and incorporating supplements like Glucosamine. It is also important to balance physical activities and rest to prevent further strain on the back.

FAQ: 2. What are some tips for managing back discomfort that impacts sleep quality?

Answer: Answer: To address back discomfort that impacts sleep quality, consider using supportive pillows, maintaining a proper sleep posture, and engaging in relaxation techniques before bedtime. Consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options is also recommended.

FAQ: 3. How can a physically demanding job affect back health and what measures can be taken to alleviate discomfort?

Answer: Answer: Physically demanding jobs, especially those involving heavy machinery, can strain the back and lead to discomfort. To alleviate such discomfort, it is important to implement ergonomic practices, take regular breaks, engage in back-strengthening exercises, and consider rotating tasks to avoid prolonged periods of strain on the back. Consulting with a healthcare provider for specific recommendations tailored to the job requirements is advisable.

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