Back Pain
Questions and Answers
Archive 2008 Part 4

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A: Hi John, I have no interest in trying to sell you anything. If you want to buy my book or any other product I personally used to help myself, then it has to be your choice. I can only recommend what worked for me, since this is my passion, not my business. Looking at your MRI results, I do not see anything which worries me at all. I think knowledge therapy might work wonders for you, but the choice is yours to make. You can always go to the library and find most of the books for free. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have upper back pain. I have a had half my thyroid removed and since then suffered many problems. I have gained weight. I have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and get migraines. I have B12 and Iron deficiency. I am fatigued and am in pain in between my shoulder blades and my muscles feel swollen and I hurt all over. I have crunching in my shoulder area and have pain in my knees and hip. I also have a soreness in my middle area of my spine when I press it. I'm not sure what condition I have and need some help and advice. Louise

A: Hi Louise, Your symptoms could be fibromyalgia or any number of other concerns. You might consider seeing a specialist or taking an alternative approach to treatment, such as knowledge therapy. Just be careful how you proceed, since wide ranging pain syndromes, such as yours, often give a doctor creative license to make you a permanent patient...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi,My mom she is suffering from severe lower backpain from past 2 yrs often. and now currently she is suffering from it where she is unable to stand and sit. this pain occurs suddenly with no symptoms of back pain. so can u please help me immediately with this regard so that my mom get relief soon. Regards, sarika

A: Hi Sarika, In order to advise you I require detailed information about your mom's diagnostic history. I prefer to have MRI results, if available or any other relevant information. Thanks, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: My palm and under part of my feet sweat. My fingers shake, could you let me know the problem and if it is curable. Kumar

A: Hi Kumar, I can not diagnose you. You will have to see a doctor for that. To me, it seems like a relatively harmless and normal occurrence that affects many people. I send you my best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: i too have suffered from chronic neck and shoulder pain , i was diagnosed with fibromyalgia / i have tried osteopaths, chiropractors ,physios , acupuncture you name it to no avail ~~~ i still have neck and head aches . then it just goes away for a time only to return in the night without warning .i get relief by lying down with a cold pack on my cervical neck area and another on my forehead . blood tests have been normal ,~~~~~some days i just am so tired with it all. have you got any suggestions or ideas ? thanx, Dyan

A: Hi Dyan, Fibromyalgia is a tricky diagnosis, but I have found many patients respond very well to knowledge therapy. In my own experience, fibromyalgia is no different than any other muscular or tendon pain syndrome, except that it is often widespread and particularly treatment-resistant. This often gives a clue to the highly repressed nature of the underlying causative emotions. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: please, I am a student of physiotherapy, my brother has spondylolisthesis and both my brother and me suffer from back pain, because we also have larger lumbar lordosis. as to be close to this topic, I chose it also as a topic for my students work. but I am embarrassed, because I have no other idea how to do the therapy of larger lumbar lordosis than exercise and stretching. please, can you help me with any other methods, that can be used to decrease the large l.l.? thank you. darina

A: Hi Darina, There is no way to reduce an exaggerated lordosis, except surgery. However, this condition is not typically painful, except in extreme cases. I am not sure of the extent of the concern with both of you. Spondylolisthesis is the same situation...rarely painful, except in extreme cases. If you can send me more precise diagnostic conclusions, I might be able to advise you in greater detail. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Do you know of any psychotherapists in the Manchester, Vt. area who are familiar with both yours and Dr. Sarno's work on TMS. Larry

A: Hi Larry, You can contact Dr. Sarno directly for a referral or try either of these professionals who are nearby...
Ronald D. Siegel, Psy.D.
20 Long Meadow Road
Lincoln, MA 01773
(781) 259-3434

Marc Sopher, MD
27 Hampton Road
Exeter, NH 03833
(603) 772-5684

Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have just found your site and after reading your own story I am in tears.....I am 25 years old and I seem to be afflicted with this chronic case of back pain, leg pain and constant burning and tingling in my extremities...My main passion is bellydance and I teach and perform however my back keeps spasming and contracting...no matter how much massage, physio, energy healing, core stabilizing work, strengthening and flexibility work I do, it just seems to continue...I have had this for at least 3 years now...I do have two small bulges that are slightly protruding but not seeming to cause much interference however that was years ago and today I experience the same pain! What got me from your story, was that as an athlete yourself, you seem to be able to do extraordinary things in your passion however afterwards can not even seem to touch your toes...exactly my saga....here I am body rolling and shimmying with so much ease and fluidity and then hours later I am as stiff as anything...but every time I dance it just seems to loosen...it brought me so much joy to know that you are also a fitness/sporty person as I don't want to give up my passion and I need assurance that this can be healed and worked with...I feel so lost, so so so lost and scared for my life...as well as extremely depressed at having this at 25 years of age when other girls are out there dancing their hearts away and here I am held a prisoner by my body...I am receiving counseling as well...and I guess I need more support, more assurance that it will leave my life one of these days....if there is anything you can offer me, please do....I ask for help.... Nancy

A: Hi Nancy, I think you are a great candidate for knowledge therapy and I believe that you can recover completely using this treatment. All the things you tell me seem to point towards an ischemia pain syndrome, rather than the same old tired structural back pain excuses offered by most doctors. I think you need to stop feeling like a victim to your pain and take control of your body, life and future. I really feel like you are in a perfect emotional state now to accomplish this. Please stay in touch and let me know how you are doing. Nancy, don't let all your best years go by as mine did...as a prisoner of pain...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have chronic (very) complex sciatic problems and i am recovering from a "bad spell", but experiencing problems walking up even gentle inclines/slopes. This is the first time I have had this problem. Any idea why and what I can do about it? Paul

A: Hi Paul, Symptoms can come on from any number of reasons, but if you are recovering, just keep your mind focused on getting better. As far as walking up a slope or incline, this is not unusual, as the angle of your stance changes, which can set off pain in any sensitive postural region. If the pain continues or worsens, check with your doctor to make sure there is nothing more serious going on. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi, First of all thank you so much for this website. I was feeling very alone, isolated, and left in the dark with my back pain until I came across this site. I am a 31 year old woman. Twelve years ago I had a serious fall that resulted in fractures of the L1 and L2 vertebrae. I recovered from the accident and led a VERY active life. I was involved in running and swimming. I attended the gym 5-6 times a week. I lifted weights and I took pilates class. I rarely experienced any kind of back pain. Then 8 months ago was stopped at a traffic light and someone ran into the back of my car. Ever since I have had regular back pain that has really changed my lifestyle. I can no longer run as the impact results in pain a few hours later. My activity level had dropped significantly. I get pains all over my middle to low back. I also experience pain in my buttock at times and down my leg. This had affected my professional life too. I am a graduate student and I can no longer sit and read or write for long periods. There are no new fractures. I have been for MRIs and the doctors can't seem to see beyond my old injury which is very evident. They say that one vertebrae is at 45% of what it should be but I never experienced prolonged or severe back pain before the car accident. Now all I have in my head is that I have a degenerated spine and it can't be fixed. They also sent me for an EMG that showed some minor nerve damage at the top of the right buttock. They sent me for physio, which helped. I have no real loss of flexibility. I can easily bend over and touch my toes. My hamstring is still lose. I have some hip flexor clicking but no real pain.The worst thing is I feel broken...like beyond repair. The just leave me with no real hope. My partner and I had planned on having kids in the next year or two but now I'm worried that the extra pregnancy weight will be too much for my back to handle. This pain and what it has done to me and my lifestyle and my personality has even affected my relationship. I feel at my wits end about what to do to make things better. I cant afford expensive treatments and surgery is out of the question for now, not that its an attractive option anyway. I really need some hope. If I could just have hope that it won't necessarily always be this way I could probably cope. I just don't want to feel as though I'm permanently broken. Every time I start to feel better I feel I end up back where I started. I feel doctors don't listen to me, they just see me as the injury I sustained at 19 years old. Can anybody help? Relate? Empathize? I really need something to hold onto. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Helen

A: Hi Helen, I can completely empathize with your situation. You must take comfort in knowing the doctors can not find a new source of pain and that you have healed so well in the past. If you go back and read the email you sent me, you will surely see that your emotional anxiety is very apparent and I believe this is a primary perpetuator of your symptoms. Getting into a car accident is very traumatic and the nocebo of the occurrence is powerful. I think you need to tap into your good health reserves and feel that you CAN overcome this latest bout of pain. The pain is certainly a conditioned response, to one extent or another...You can beat it. I would concentrate on emotional issues and try out some good sources of knowledge therapy. Be careful about the structural diagnoses, since once you embrace these, it may be too late to simply beat the pain on your own. I have every confidence that you can do it! Please stay in touch and let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: If a child has had his tailbone removed (cancer), are there any resulting physical limitations e.g., involvement in sports, distance to walk....? Thank you. Linda

A: Hi Linda, There should be no limitations at all, but it is best to make sure with the child's doctor to be sure of the specifics of their individual case. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am a 47 year old female. I have been overweight my entire life.....back pain was unreal and 2 years ago I had falling spells because my legs would give out....I was hospitalized and an MRI was done on my spine. Cervical spine had bone spurs...Lumbar back had 2 bulges. I went to a Nuerologist in Dallas and was told that I needed to lose weight before anything could be done and it was due to my weight for 46 years. Well I had gastric bypass in November 2007 and I have lost 130 lbs. I am a average weight now and the pain in the middle of my back in horrible. A MRI of the Thoaric spine was done last week and the results were Left paramidline t6-t7 disk protrusion appears m,ore prominent due to progressing mass effect/flattening of the left anterior aspect of the cord at this level resulting in at least mild left paramidline spinal stenosis and at least mild left t6-t7 neural foraminal encroachment. I am having injections in the back every two weeks but the pain is increasing....my thighs are having stabbing pains and my bottom is killing me. It hurts to sit, stand, or lay. I am taking Dialuidid several times a day to no releif. I have had physical therapy also. My question is I am 5"6' and weight 155....what can be done at this point. I am desperate. Terry

A: Hi Terry, The ravages of too much weight can indeed be severe. Congrats on losing the weight and I am sure it will help you to be healthier in the future. The injections, drugs and physical therapy seem useless, so I would abandon these... I recommend avoiding surgical methods and concentrating your treatments on both knowledge therapy combined with a medical modality such as spinal decompression. I think you can resolve this pain without an operation if you commit yourself to learning all there is to know and working to overcome the psychological and physical issues together. I wish you luck and please stay in touch to let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

COMMENT: I lifted boxes and twisted and caused two herniated disks and suffered for two years with terrible sciatica pain in my leg. When I got to the point that I could no longer bear the pain (constant visits to the emergency room in agony), I went to a recommended neurosurgeon. Actually, I went to two to get a second opinion. They both referred me to an ortheopedic surgeon because I had scoliosis and the prognosis did not look good. I finally gave in and had surgery. They put a 12" rod in my back. That was two months ago. I suffer from constant pain now after the surgery and hope it will soon get better. I don't sleep much at night because of the pain. Feels like stabbing in the back and shoots down my legs. This is even after the surgery. I take darvecets and ibuprofen, but to no avail. I am afraid to take too many pain killers so I suffer until I fall asleep exhausted. What makes it even more difficult is am back to work trying to make this all work...thanks for listening.. if there are any solutions, please let me know. Sheryl

A: Hi Sheryl, I am so sorry to hear about your situation. I would have advised against this type of surgery, but at this point, you have to make the best of it. I hope the doctors are still working with you to find a solution to your problem and I do send you my best wishes for relief SOON. Most sincerely, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am a nursing assistant and back in 2002 i injured my back. i dislocated my L3 and my L4. every since i have been in dealing with the pain. I don't want to get surgery but it to the point that i might not have a choice. I have lost weight thinking that would help and it did not. when the weather gets bad or a storm is coming in I hurt. Is there any thing else that i can do to make the pain go away with out having to do surgery? I am only 27 years old and i feel like I 97 years old. Heidi

A: Hi Heidi, How do you know the vertebrae are dislocated? Do you have an MRI available? If so, I would like to read the report, if possible. If you can provide this info, it will assist me in advising you. In the meantime, try to hang in there. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am 64 years old. Through the years I have suffered with Low back pain. I was told I had Spondylolisthesis grade 2.I am an only child, and I have always lived at home.Recently, after suffering with ocular pemphigoid, my dad passed away. My mother now has cancer in her breast and in her back. I have always been a stressed person, and I think with so much going on, my back pain has come back.All I did the other day was to put on my one of my socks.I heard a click, then I had terrible pain in my lower back. I have been taking Ultram for the pain. I do think. anxiety and stress can contribute to this. I have always had a loe selfesteem of myself, and I worry about everything. Do you think this could be the cause of my pain? I ask you very humbly to help me. Thank You, Geoffrey

A: Hi Geoffrey, I think you are very intuitive to consider the events in your life which are likely to be contributing to your emotional stress reserves. This is excellent thinking! I do not see Grade 2 Spondy causing severe back pain, as it is one of the many back pain scapegoats, as long as the grade is not too severe... I think knowledge therapy will do you a world of good to help your back pain, as well as set the stage for better general health in your future. I send you my very best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: see if you can figure this one out...seems the doctors around here can only scratch their heads. my husband is 38 years old. 14 months ago he injured his back while lifting an 80lb. steel flat bar. (he only weighs 110 lbs. himself). he said he picked the end of it up about a foot high and felt as well as heard 3 pops or snaps in his lower back. at that time he lowered the bar back to the floor and tried to stand up straight as he felt a tightness in his lower back. he couldn't stand all the way up so he tried to lean foward and he said that pain shot through his whole body. he said he remembers saying "oh Lord what have i done?" although there was instant severe pain all of his symptoms did not show up all at one time and he is getting worse and worse. in 14 months time he has gone from a young healthy man with no problems to someone who uses a walker or wheel chair most all the time. there is constant chronic pain in his lower back, buttocks, left leg (at first the pain was in the right leg but one day the pain shifted to the left leg in aqua therapy), now he has pain in his wrists and numbness and tingling in his right hand, his vision is blurring and i fear he is catching pneumonia as he has trouble clearing his lungs and his chest hurts sometimes.pain keeps him awake.he may sleep 3 hours a night and catnap through the day.he is badly depressed.(so am i.)he has drop foot and sometimes has to pick his leg up with his hand in order to move it. his feet and ankles swell up like balloons.he also says it feels like something close to his sacral area is scratching the inside of his back. he desperatly needs a good doctor but workers comp. keeps sending him to doctors that don't seem to know anymore than i do (i study almost 24/7 just trying to get my happy husband back).he is my best friend. emgs,mris,came back negative except for 3 cysts at s-1,s-2 area. doctors all believe that cysts are not causing pain because they're not close enough or big enough. he hurts in his sacrum/coccyx area. they didn't even take the mri any lower than L-5. the doctors have not even looked at his back. they just play with his feet (even though he can pinpoint the pain in his sacral area) and say there's no nerve damage and no herniated disc so theres nothing i can do. (they all agree something is wrong they just don't know what it is). please help me figure this out as i am writing this letter to you in tears of desperation. i tell you the truth; we can not go on like this much longer. neither of us can. if anyone has any ideas whats going on please let me know. thank you for your time,angie

A: Hi Angie, Obviously, your husband is suffering some terrible pain, but the cause seems illogical. The symptoms moving and occurring in the upper and lower end of his spine simultaneously is both highly unusual and virtually impossible from the injury you describe. I think another MRI detailing the sacrum and coccyx is needed and I was not quite sure if they did one which visualized his upper spine, as well. If not, this is also a must have...

I know worker's comp can be a nightmare, but these are crucial and you should do whatever it takes to get them done. If you can get the tests, feel free to send me the reports and I will do my best to advise. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Had pain in upper back for two years, had xray the report said "the bony alignment is within normal limits. there is evidence of degenerative changes with some minor joint space narrowing and osteophyte formation at c6/c7 and c7/t1. no vertebral collapse. No facal destructive bony abnormality. that in 04/09/07. this week I have had a MRI scan and it shows a grey area or some swelling. what could is be I am age 50. the pain is in the back and down the left arm. Sandra

A: Hi Sandra, Your x-rays do not show any reason for pain. As far as your MRI, you must ask your doctor or radiologist to accurately interpret the findings for you. The possibilities of a "gray area" are endless. Let me know what they say and I will be happy to advise you further if needed.The radiologist is asking for a contrast scan to exclude a tumor. Did you ever have this done? I do not think the DDD in the neck is the source of pain. I do not know what to make of the other issue, since no real diagnostic conclusion is presented. I would follow up with your doctor to finalize this concern. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Comment: I hurt my back as a child around 9 or 10 it has nothingto do with my disc. I hurt my back by lifting heavy thingsand lifting friends And I still have that low back pain.I didn't fall and hurt my back. my doctor said I have nomuscle in my back I'm weak. But he said my spine is straight. I don't need surgery. I have to do back exercises. Sabrina

A: Hi Sabrina, Good luck in overcoming your pain and thanks for sending in your story. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have suffered back pain most of my life. Started at 15 and Now 36. My condition started with neck and back cracking to Sacrum twisting in order to get the obvious relief that comes from cracking. It has now become almost uncontrollable and has symptoms of dietary, Psychological and physical. I have consulted hundreds of doctors, chiropractors, allergy tests, MRI, xray's blood samples etc etc and there has never been a conclusive answer provided. I have spent the last 13 years traveling the world with my job and been exposed to tens of thousands of more people that an ordinary person in a fixed home would be exposed to and yet I have found only one other person with the same disorder I have. In summary I Crack constantly to relieve all my joints, muscles. People look at me and consider turrets as a cause. I believe however that my condition stems from an Enzyme problem, It seems that certain things do aggravate it. One is alcohol and another I am beginning to consider is dehydration although I drink more than enough liquids. Bread may play a factor however I have tried cutting wheat from my diet with no effect. Surgery is not an option as I am a firm believer that Enzymes are the root of my problem and a drug will solve my condition. I am a fit health male with no history or other issues of concern. Can you give me any advice as what may be the cause, how to investigate this, what type of doctor can best help me. HELP!!!! Tony

A: Hi Tony, To me this sounds like a psychosomatic conditioned response which you created yourself in response to pain. I think the conditioning probably has more to do with the perpetuation of the symptoms than any physical factor. This is even more probable, since you have such a long and unsuccessful history of diagnosis and treatment. I advise knowledge therapy for you. I send you my best, Sensei Adam, Rostocki

Q: your site has me totally confused. you make it seem as though no one should ever get surgery, people rarely have real back issues, and its all a big conspiracy between doctors. i don' think this is true at all. my neurosurgeon is awesome. my primary care waited a year to do an MRI when i was in and out of the office for severe lower back pain to the point where i couldn't even stand up, and terrible pain down my right leg. finally she did an mri and they found a VERY obvious herniated L4-L5 disc. its completely black on the films. she said it was a very broad herniation, which it obviously was. before i saw the neurosurgeon, i tried physical therapy for a few months, then i tried chiro 3x a week for a couple months, i tried cortisone injections, and that made it worse. my neurosurgeon did a microdiscectomy may 1, and it's been an interesting road since then. the second day after surgery the pain was so bad in my leg i literally laid in bed and cried for hours. they prescribed valium on top of my percocet, and steroids. then it got totally fine for a few weeks. it felt awesome. but over time it's gotten really bad again. she said it's degenerative disc disease and the disc is very dry. she put me on neurontin and i start aquatic physical therapy monday. she said to give it 3 months at LEAST and if nothing works, we can talk about the fusion, which she specializes in. that, and brain surgery. she is very conservative. i am 22, i have a 5 year old autistic son, and this back/leg pain is totally hindering my life. i've been out of work for a year, i can't bend over the tub to bathe my son without feeling paralyzed and my entire back feeling like HELL when i stand up. i can't even clean my entire house because by the time i'm done, i'm walking with a 45 degree angle and i have to walk quickly to my bed and lay down. i've been on percocet for 3 months now. all this pain i'm experiencing is WHILE on the narcotics. if i don't take them, i can't even take a 10 minute shower without pain shooting up and down my leg. i can't live on narcotics, and i cannot live the rest of my life, at 22, like this. so your site has seriously discouraged me and while i don't believe everything it says, i'm kind of unnerved over the fact that you make it seem as though people should live their lives like this and surgery is a terrible idea, and that the back issues might be phantom. i trust my neurosurgeon, but i also do a LOT of research. this is the first page i have come across like this & i am interested to hear what you have to say on my situation. what YOU would recommend i do. i don't mean this in an offensive way at all. i am currently PMSing so maybe its not the best time to be writing emails to other people, lol. but i have a lot to think about in the next couple months and i'd like all the information and opinions i can get. so if you could let me know, that'd be great. thanks. Laura

A: Hi Laura, I will take your email with the obvious good humor it was designed with, so don't worry about the PMS. You have bought into the structural pain theory 100%, which is fine, but obviously, the seemingly appropriate treatments have done little to cure you. My speculation is that you can continue to hold on to the structural diagnosis (herniated disc at L5/S1 is so incredibly common...I have it as well) and get the fusion, you probably be very unhappy with that decision as the surrounding vertebral levels crumble one at a time from the added unnatural stress inherent to the procedure. It is pure barbarism.

There is nothing on my site which says that any pain is "phantom" or "unreal" as you describe it. The pain is clinically identical to structural pain, just caused by a psycho-emotional source. The ball is in your court, Laura. I do recommend you read some of the following pages for additional reference and maybe they will help to clarify some things for you:

http://www.cure-back-pain.org/psychosomatic.html
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/back-pain-scapegoat.html
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/spinal-abnormalities.html
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/misdiagnosed-back-pain.html
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/unresolved-back-pain.html

Just remember, I suffered from back pain for almost as long as you have been alive and have some idea what I am talking about...I send you my best and please stay in touch to let me know how you are doing. Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am 41 years old. Is that the typical age to be diagnosed with spinal arthritis? What is the common age? Mischelle

A: Hi Mischelle, There is no typical age for diagnosis. It is a typical age to begin showing the usual signs of spinal degeneration, but this can occur in far younger patients, as well. Most osteoarthritic processes are normal & universal and should not be the cause of severe symptoms. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I dont know what to do. i have had back pain for about five years after an injury in softball. my chiropractor told me then that i have arthritis in my spine. i was only 24. now, im 29, and injured it again, i broke my L5 vertebrae, and now i have constant pressure in my low back, almost like i shrunk or i cant stand up straight. he also told me i have a slight case of scoliosis in my lumbar section. the worst pain though is the muscle cramping in my mid back(more to the sides, not centered in the back) and my hips. what should i do? continue to go to the chiropractor or see my regular doctor? Nicky

A: Hi Nicky, I can virtually guarantee that continued chiropractic will not cure you, although it may help to drain your bank account. I would recommend an exam from a qualified physician and an MRI or the area. If you can provide the MRI report, I will be happy to take a detailed look at your case and advise you further. At this stage, I sense you are suffering from the considerable nocebo effect of your diagnosis, but can assure you that I highly doubt the arthritis or scoliosis to be of any relation to your pain. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: when i turn side to side, stand sit or lay I get shooting pains in my lower back. Tilting my head forward feels like I have a river of lava running down the left side of my spine. Sitting or laying in certain positions relieve the pain. I am starting to worry. I have no pain in my butt or legs, Any help or advice would be great, Larry

A: Hi Larry, I have empathy for tilting the head part. When I first suffered from lower back pain, I had this sensation of a dire pulling in my lumbar spine, when I put my chin to my chest. It was hellish! I recommend going for an exam and getting an MRI to find out what is going on. However, keep perspective and remember that many spinal abnormalities are mistakenly blamed for pain. If you can achieve a diagnosis and need advice, please feel free to write to me again with further info. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Comment: I just wanted to thank you for all your work and let you know I am praying for you everyday. Your book was a life saver for me and I tried everything before to cure my lower back pain. I am back to work and feeling great after only 3 weeks. I was disabled for 12 years with this pain and I truly feel as if you have given me a miracle! God bless, Mercy

A: Hi Mercy, No miracle here, just good science. Thank you so much for your kind words and your prayers. I wish you continued good health and please stay in touch to let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi I was injured at work earlier this year and the MRI showed an annular tear at L5,S1. Nothing that has been done so far has helped. I have had therapy twice that actually made it worse meds don't really offer much help, and they put me on a traction table that hurt like crazy, it was so bad it hurt to take breath. My question is is there anything else that I can do or am I stuck with this. I forgot to tell you I have pain in my right leg and sometimes it feels like I have a cramp but my muscles aren't tight. Rich

A: Hi Rich, This is the most common location for a herniation or annular tear to occur. Extremely common. Do the doctors suspect chemical radiculitis or nerve compression as the source of pain? I recommend knowledge therapy, since all the medical treatments you have tried have failed you. I also have a ruptured disc at the same location and am completely pain free, even after suffering from 18 years...Alternately, you might consider spinal decompression, but this treatment seems to work better with enclosed herniations...Let me know how you make out. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Reply: they suspect chemical radiculitis, I am not positive but I think there may be more to it because sometimes when I try to stand up straight I get a sudden urge to urinate and when I bend over again the urge goes away.Thanks again, Rich

A: Hi Rich, Chemical radiculitis is a very controversial diagnosis and should not cause ongoing pain for too long, even if it does actually exist. The good news is that treatment revolves mostly around single minimally invasive procedures which inject steroids and flushing solutions to dissipate the irritating proteins. The symptom of frequent urination should not be tied to this occurrence, since the location is not correct. I still recommend knowledge therapy and if this is not completely successful, consider epidural injection treatment. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: i have three slipping neck discs. I believe my first feel of upper spinal burn feel was 2004 but my doctor said then its a muscle spasm due to a very small 'fat-bag' near that area! I am a dancer. i kept my stretching exercises to relief pain. until this year i started getting headaches can't stand u still more than few minutes, and cant sit for long periods as well. in motion and stretched lying back the pain is much less and better controlled. I have seen my MRI and I don't believe they are very very bad although it might be getting serious. My questions are:Is it possible that my discs get relocated in their places without surgery? what should i do exactly to make this happen?It is very important for me to dance swim and be active and sportive. it is very important for me to get things back in their proper places. Maria

A: Hi Maria, Discs can not be relocated, since they do not slip or move. Slipped disc is merely a poorly named term for a herniation. If you would like to send me your MRI report, I will be happy to advise you on their severity. I can't imagine what kind of doctor you are going to, who would diagnosed your condition the way it has been handled...I certainly do not recommend surgery. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I do not have back pain. I have aging spine skeletal deformity/disc/nerve pathology which causes stiffness and poor balance and falls. I am so afraid of a laminectomy and other such awful operations, but have been told I could end up paralyzed. Is there a way out of operations? Wendy

A: Hi Wendy, In order to answer your question, I need to have detailed information about your diagnosis. What is your exact condition and do you have an MRI report available? The more info you can provide, the better I can assist you. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I HAVE 4 BULGING DISKS WITH HEMATOMAS. NOW I KEEP FALLING WHAT SHOULD I DO? Lori

A: Hi Lori, I request that you provide me with much more detail about your specific condition, preferably an MRI report. This will help me to advise you better. Sincerely, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I'm a long time low back pain sufferer who has recently embraced the TMS diagnosis after reading Sarno's book and a great deal of on-line literature. I fit the profile perfectly and my symptoms do as well. I've searched and searched on-line for a doctor in Toronto or even Ontario who treats TMS and/or a support group etc. Do you happen to know of resources in Canada that can help me? Clinics, support groups, doctors? Thanks, Tina

A: Hi Tina, I do not know of any TMS physicians in Canada, but there are several close to you in the US:

Howard Schubiner, MD Providence Hospital Department of Internal Medicine 16001 W. Nine Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48075 (248) 849-4728

John Stracks, MD Ypsilanti Health Center - Family Medicine 200 Arnet, Suite 200 Ypsilanti, MI 48198 (734) 482-6221

Doug Hoffman, MD SMDC Sports Medicine and Orthopedics 400 E. Third St. Duluth, MN 55805 (218) 786-3520

Personally, I do not think you really require a doctor for successful TMS treatment, just a real commitment to the knowledge therapy program. Please stay in touch and let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have been suffering with back pain all my adult life...now at 59 I'm at a point where I have to do something serious. I haven't worked in 15 days. I been the the Veterans doctor and I have been taking hydro codeine 5/500 for about 3 weeks and its not helping. I cant use the pee or have normal bowl movement...and pain so severe I'm in tears most of the time.....is there anything you can tell me that will help?I'm almost at the point where I rather be dead than to be in this much pain. I've been back to the VA hospital many times and all they will do is double up the meds. Richard

A: Hi Richard, I can certainly understand your feelings of desperation. I too shared this sentiment at least twice during my 18 years of back pain agony...Do you have a diagnosis? An MRI result available? This would assist me greatly in advising you... Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I was involved in a MVA, (rear end collision) on the 21 Sept 2007. I was stopped and the vehicle behind me ran into me, she was going 40 to 50 Km/hr. All I remember was the sound and my head slamming back into the headrest, and then forward again. At the time, I thought woo, I am ok and was concerned for the other driver. In the town where I was, the police do not attend an accident scene unless an ambulance is required or the vehicles are not drivable. So once we exchanged info, we both drove to the police station to file an accident report. By that time I was starting to get a headache, still thought I would be ok.After completing the paper work, I decide to go and pick up the item that I had planned to do, when the accident happened. On the way there, the headache was getting worse, and something strange happened with my vision, it was like someone had put dark blue lenses over my eyes and the whole world looked blue. This lasted for about 3-4 minutes and then went away. Over the next few weeks I would get blue spots in my vision but it eventually cleared up. My problems are, constant headache (mainly on the left side but also on the right at times), jaw pain and earaches (which I feel are muscle related), right shoulder and upper arm pain, burning sensations in the left shoulder, upper left arm, left side of neck, I have lost some sensation in my left baby and ring fingers. I also have had a terrible problem with muscle spasms in my back and they travel around my ribcage to my sides. At times I also have like an electrical buzzing sensation and a scratchy type pain (like someone is dragging a pin down my back), both of these sensations radiate from my neck down over my left shoulder blade, if I sit upright or stand to long (more that 10 min). I am at my wits end. I have tried massage therapy, physical therapy, Intra Muscular Stimulation, and medication. They cannot do trigger point injections as there are so many trigger points and it would be fruitless. So now the soft tissue injury specialist has put me on an antidepressant called Cymbalta, it is supposed to help with nerve pain. I cannot take painkillers as I have a strong reaction or sensitivity to morphine, codeine and gravol as well as a few other meds. I also build up immunity to most meds if I take them more that three of four days in a row. Is there anything you can suggest, prior to the accident I was diagnosed with a bulging disk in my neck and had some loss of sensation at certain parts in my left arm but nothing that caused me any notable distress. I also have DDD in the lumbar and lumbar facet disease. My lumbar problems where not made worse by the accident. I was completely up front with my insurance co. about my pre-existing injuries. I live in Canada; my insurance co. pays for all my medical treatment that is not covered by public health care. I have not contacted a lawyer to date and have no plans to do so if my insurer treats me fairly, which they have done so far. Do you have any suggestion re any techniques or medical treatment so that I can get my life back? Thank You P.S. it is now July 3 almost a year and I have had enough. Jeany

A: Hi Jeany, Why not try non-surgical spinal decompression. If the pain is actually due to the disc and not some psychological cause, this treatment should resolve it effectively. Let me know how it works out for you. I send you my best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: hi,i am a sugar{diabetes}patient& blood pressure for last 30 yrs,now i am experiencing lumber pain what medicines or therapy,exercise i should do.is there any precaution i need to take? plz tell me how to get over it..i am a judge and have to sit continuously for 6-7 hrs..can it lead to paralysis? Can yoga be helpful in that? Monika

A: Hi Monika, What is your diagnosis? In essence, what condition is causing your pain? This is crucial to know before advising you. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I HAVE DISEASED DISKS AT 2&3SP0NDLOSIS AND SOME BULGING DISK PROBLEM. I SUFFER FROM BACK PAIN MAINLY MUSCLES IN THE UPPER BACK USUALLY RIGHT SIDE MAINLY AT NIGHT DUE TO THE MUSCLES TIGHTENING. CAN YOU ADVISE? Brian

A: Hi Brian, Do you have an MRI report or other more detailed diagnostic report available? Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I don't know what I have in my lower back, but whatever it is, I've had it for at least 2 years. I went to the doctor recently because it's been happening more frequently and to a much higher degree of pain. The doctor gave me an MRI and said that he saw nothing accept one spot where a nerve was close to something or something was close to a nerve, but should not be giving me any pain or problem. I said to him that by any chance is this in my lower left side of my back right about here (pointing to the spot of pain)? He said yes but nothing on the MRI would cause my pain including that nerve he was talking about. So I asked him what I have and he said that I must just have a sprained lower back that possibly never healed. He said I should take physical therapy for 3 weeks with drugs and that should take care of it. So anyway,I looked up on the web what they would do in physical therapy for my back and designed a program on my own. This included many slow stretching movements for about 30 minutes 3x per week, just like they were going to have me be doing. It's been 2 weeks and my back has been feeling much looser until yesterday when I got my recurring "zinger" in that spot. I can describe it like someone stabbing you in the lower back with a thin bladed knife or being shot with a taiser gun or something. It always happens when I twist slightly to the right and down. It makes me freeze in pain and then I have to slowly raise up. Then the pain slowly subsides but only if I avoid that exact angle again. I've had this for a couple years now, but until only recently has it been occurring more often with a higher degree of pain and longer recovery time. What in the world do you think I might have and how can i cure it if you know. Thank you very much. Alan

A: Hi Alan, Being that you have been cleared of anything serious via medical exam and MRI, I feel confident recommending knowledge therapy to you. I believe the pain you described can be best treated with this simple and effective therapy option. I do not think it is an injury, since the condition is chronic. The fact that you received temporary relief also denotes an ischemic pain condition. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Off and on throughout my 74 years on this earth I have experienced sudden lower back pain which seems to correct itself within one or two days. Usually the cure in my case was the expelling of gas would relieve the situation. I recently, June 20th,finished some work which required stooping and reaching for items on shelving when I began to experience pain just above the lower back. I was able to move about carefully but unlike the past experiences (May of 2006) even with the dispelling of a great deal of gas I was unable to get back to normal. I discovered a chiropractor who employs a Pain Neutralization Technique and thought it would be worthwhile to check it out.Last Thursday, the 26th, I has this person do his technique. Unfortunately, it did not cure anything, in fact the pain was 10 times worse. The epi-center of the pain was near my left kidney area and like a lightning bolt shot thru the muscle to my right side and across my stomach muscles. I usually yelped load for an instant until I was able to regain my poser. No amount of gas release helped the situation. I am not sure by my description whether you can offer any help. I have an appointment with my primary care doctor tomorrow but don't expect much from him. I am marginally improved today but that's not saying much. Can you supply any help in understanding how I might get my back to calm down? Just as I put the finishing touches on this email I got another severe jolt. Norm

A: Hi Norm, I am not sure what the cause could be. It might be muscular and then again, it might be internal or even a psychosomatic response. Going to the doctor is a good idea, just to rule out anything serious. I am sending you my book attached to this email as a gift. Rarely do people try so hard to buy it and not give up, so I think you earned it on principle alone. I hope it may be of some help to you and I send you my best. Let me know what the doctor says. S.A.R.

Comment: Adam, Have just bought your book and read it all the way through. Very thought provoking. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It makes sense. Thank you.

I'm a physical educator earning my living running corporate health seminars. I run a fitness program called the CrookBack Clinic. I'm putting the finishing touches on an ebook about fixing up crook backs (lower back pain) and remembered that Louise Hay said that a painful lower back represented fear around money issues. My back got better by taking responsibility and doing a whole series of exercises. The fact that I didn't have the money for any therapy was probably a good thing - I had to do something to myself. I went to America for my daughter's wedding and along the way went to the Egoscue Clinic in San Diego. (I live in Canberra Australia.) I got some new exercises to and started doing them every night in front of TV, in 8 weeks I was better. So this evening I started to add another chapter on the causes of back pain and went looking for more stuff about the esoteric causes of back pain and came across your book, which was worth every bit of $9.00.

As I write it occurs to me that as well as psycho-somatic there is another pathway, somato-psychic. I learned this from Will Schultz and the Esalen movement. The theory goes that if you work on the body, you will also experience changes in the mind. Adam, your exhortation for people to become physically active may well stimulate this effect though, (because they start to feel better) it may divert their attention from doing what you suggest - that is dredging deep into the inner recesses of the mind.

My exercises may well do this.

I rubbish the effect of therapy that is largely palliative - the crunch, the rub down, the ray lamp and the electric shock as methods for getting yourself back into good shape. I say that it's a big ask expecting to get better by having someone do something to you; sooner or later you have to do something to yourself. As soon as people take some responsibility for their body, they also take some responsibility for what's going on in their mind. Just taking responsibility to put the therapy to one side and do something for themself may have an important effect on the subconscious. How deep the therapy goes, I'm not sure, but you stimulate me to think more about it. I read somewhere that the mind working on the mind is a disaster. It's hard to think yourself out of depression. On the other hand starting exercising and taking control, firstly through the physical and the pathway is created through to the mind.

The most popular approach to depression or insomnia, or diabetes, or high blood pressure is to take a pill and completely absolve oneself of responsibility and hand it over to Smerck, Fizzer and Roach. The chances of getting better are remote. I imaging that there is a double effect in operation by working on the physical as well as dredging into the mental as you recommend. I'm going to do this work for myself. As I read your article I started to think of some of my own sadness, regrets, failures, fears. My obsession with physical activity my be pushing these fears etc down, and not letting them bubble up where I can see them. I've never thought about that, but looking back on my life that could be the case. Sports loving kid, phys ed teacher, and regular fitness trainer throughout my life. It could be the great sublimination. Maybe other things might do it, hobbies, art, music, church - all great distractors which stop us from dredging down past the Bullsh down to our real essence. It makes a strong case for recreational activities being important to mental health - but as subliminators.

I imaging that if I were a Tibetan monk, I'd meditate long and often and get down deeper that way. My life (as I write)seems to have been a life of avoidance - busyness, fitness, work ... In fact it must take a great deal of psychic energy to keep pushing this subconscious stuff down, so it doesn't bubble up and consume us. It would be too painful for most people. They'd go nuts and end up in a surgery and a pharmacy. You can either distract yourself from confronting yourself, you can put up barriers or you can put up with physical pain. So the notion of pain distracting us is a novel and plausible explanation. I like it and am grateful to you for the suggestion.

I've been tearing a calf muscle for years - fear of steeping forward into the future! I'm going to think more about it and see what happens. Physical educators (I started my professional career as a PhysEd teacher) have always considered that they they were doing was educating people through the physical - that it wasn't just about game skills and sport - something cognitive was going on at the same time - something developed character, something that stimulated the autonomic nervous system, something that kept people healthy. They never had a good understanding why this was happening.As our society has become more and more sedentary we've experienced an exponential growth in physical complaints and mental complaints - like depression. Maybe my obsession - to the point of becoming my profession - with physical activity masked the psychological issues, kept them 'under ground' as it were; heaven forbid that I would stop exercising and let the mind takes over; all sorts of stuff would bubble up to the surface. That which doesn't quite get to the surface may manifest itself as physical pain.

So, I'm just thinking aloud here, but want to thank you for stimulating my thinking. Regards and best wishes. John

A: Hi John, Thank you for this insightful and brilliant letter. I think you have so many great points here that I can not even comment on each individually. People such as yourself truly embrace the power of the mind and body as individual components of the self, but more importantly, also understand the interactions which make us human. If you have not done so, I recommend reading more on the topic by Dr. John Sarno. He is the source of the best info on mind/body conditions and a big influence on my own philosophies. Dr. Candice Pert is another wonderful author on the topic. I think your upcoming ebook will be a big hit! Stay in touch and keep me up on how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Your website is excellent and very useful..Could you please help ..my cousin had a fall on Jan 18th 2008 she took a CT scan and was diagnosed with oblique undisplaced fracture of the 5th sacral vertebra above the sacro coccygeal junction.The doctors now say there is a tilt 50 degrees and it may not be possible to have a normal delivery. The pain is gradually reducing we consider it around 4 presently with 10 being the highest .Is it normal to take so long to heal? She is advised rest by all doctors and nothing else except for vitamin supplements Any suggestions please will it heal 100%??? everyone is very worried about this could you please advise??? Carlton

A: Hi Carlton, Thank you for the nice comments about my site. This area is notorious for taking a very long time to heal, but the fact that the pain is reducing is a good thing. A coccyx/sacral injury can take a whole year to fully resolve in some cases. Some patients have used mind/body techniques to increase localized circulation, which can increase the healing rate significantly. There are really no physical treatments which will speed things along. Just let her take the time her body needs to heal fully and I am sure she will be ok. My recommendation would be to follow the doctor's advise on this and if she wants to be more proactive, consider knowledge therapy as a means of overcoming the nocebo effect of such an injury and optimizing the healing rate. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am a 19 year old who is having nerve problems down my left arm and hand. My ring finger shoots awful pain if I rub it on the inside and no one can figure out what is going on. It is so frustrating. Recently, my left side has started hurting at about the place where my ovary is. Do you know of anything it could be? Kristen

A: Hi Kristen, I recommend going to a doctor for a diagnosis. One thing is for sure, anything which is affecting your finger is certainly not spinally related to a pain in the ovary. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: In 1989 I fell on my butt and I hurt my back. I didn't realize how badly it was, I just knew it hurt. I walked into the hospital. Well, after X-Rays were done it was found out that I had broke my back. Not only broke it, but it was a compression fracture at L1. L1 just was not there anymore. I was transported to Thomas Jefferson to have a fusion done. I had a T12 L2 fusion done and was sent home about 2 weeks later. I was supposed follow up with the doctors, but I never did. The man I was with was a jerk and, well, you don't need to hear about him. So anyway here we are in 2008 and I now have a lot of pain from my back surgery. I still have the rods and screws back there, but the top screw is broke, (I found that out in 2008 when I had X-Rays done after I left the jerk). I have also found out that I have arthritis in my back and also scoliosis, it's an 's' curve type. I don't know if it was caused by the fusion or not. I've been on so many medications and pain killers and nothing really works. I have so many different doctors. I have my primary, a pain management, a rheumatologist, and a neurologist. Oh yeah I also have a mental health counselor to help me see things straight. I don't know if things will get better, I hope they will. I had one orthopedic doctor that was going to operate and take the hardware out and re-do the old surgery, but his neurosurgeon didn't take my insurance. One doctor says the pain is from the broke screw, one says the arthritis, I don't know. I just keep going from doctor to doctor. I just got a new rheumatologist so I'll see how he works out. Anyway that's my story. I guess my surgery was a success considering that I lived a full life and had 3 children since the surgery and the pain just started about 4 years ago. so feel free to write back or whatever.Donna

A: Hi Donna, Thanks for sharing your story with us and I wish you well in your future treatment. I understand that you view your life as successful, based on your accomplishments, but there is no reason to accept ongoing back pain if you can be rid of it. Remember to keep searching for a cure and never give up. My thoughts are with you. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I'm an acupuncturist and I treat back pain all the time. I find it works a lot better than aspirin. Keep in mind that a lot of success depends on the technique of the individual practitioner. This is unfortunately also why it's hard to pin down and effect (pardon the pun) in a study. I appreciate a good study and I want to see proof as much as anyone. I understand that patients who come to me are self-selected. But as far as pure placebo? Too many patients come to me thoroughly NOT expecting it to work, having been through a gamut of unsuccessful treatments and it works anyway. Why should the placebo effect suddenly kick in for my particular modality? And in the case of someone who is actively skeptical? Here is another point to consider: sometimes I won't get a result until I change the protocol and select different points, or even one point. And the wammo! dramatic success. This is clearly not placebo at work because the patient has no knowledge or input and would have no reason to react one way or the other to a different point location on, say, treatment number six. Furthermore, it is also the case in western medicine that there is variability in outcome based on the skill of the surgeon. People are well advised to research a surgeon before undergoing, say, spinal fusion, or even a rhizotomy. There is talent as well as training in all medicine.William

A: Hi William, Thank you for your letter. You make some very valid points and I especially agree with you concerning the skill of any particular practitioner having a drastic effect on the success of the treatment. However, the majority of back pain is psychosomatic, not structural, and any physical treatment which enacts relief is purely symptomatic and akin to an aspirin or bandaid. I have never seen a case where acupuncture is able to address the underlying psycho-emotional causation of a neuralgia or myositis syndrome. Placebo has been studied meticulously and comes into play in the most illogical ways sometimes. For patients with psychosomatic pain, all physical treatments, including surgery, might work through the power of placebo. Unfortunately, the vast majority of these patients will either suffer a relapse of the original symptoms or (far harder to accurately study...) the development of a secondary or new primary pain syndrome to fulfill the symptom imperative. I send you my very best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: i have just returned from my doctors and he has informed me that the pain i have in my legs is not sciatica but i have arthritis in my spine , he has told me what to do but i am worried as i know that arthritis can end up making you crippled so i don't know what to d. Yvonne

A: Hi Yvonne, What type of arthritis were you diagnosed with? The more diagnostic detail, the better I can advise you...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have a 22 mm (2.2cm) herniation at L-5 with migration caused by medical malpractice. The disk gel material has been pushed out down the back of the spine. It got better over a year then 3 weeks ago it regressed to hell. My question is ONCE THE GEL MATERIAL PUSHES OUT DOES IT EVER REGENERATE AND COME BACK? I've been to 5 quacks and not 1 of them could answer this question. Thanks. -Michael

A: Hi Michael, No the nucleus pulposus material will not regenerate. The bulge might shrink, but any core material which ruptures out of the outer wall is lost. Any doctor should be able to answer that simple question, so I think you opinion of them is well justified. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

COMMENT: In 2002, I started noticing a tingle at the junction of my back and buttocks on the right side of my body. It stayed constant in this state for around six months. Then, one day, I felt a pain that I had never felt before...the tingling that I felt became a knife wedged in between my back and buttocks. My girlfriend at the time urged me to go and see her chiropractor, so I relented and we saw her. She took an x-ray of my back and determined that it was out of alignment, so eight weeks and $300 later, my back pain was so unbearable that I could not sit or stand for any considerable amount of time. I had to lay down wherever I was, be it at work or at school. I finally went to see my doctor, and he tried muscle relaxers, as well as steroid shots, which proved ineffective. I was then referred to a D.O. who looked at my MRI and advised me of surgery. I asked him about non-invasive techniques, and he said that those options weren't viable due to the size of the herniation (12 mm), and that I probably would have been a better candidate if I hadn't had the 'adjustments' that the chiropractor had administered. So, I went in for surgery, which was about 2 weeks after seeing the doctor, had my discectomy (minimally invasive), and was out of the hospital around 9 the next morning. I felt great, and was back in class that same day I left the hospital. Then, the physical therapy; I had been debilitated so long that I had a bad case of atrophy in my right leg. Six weeks of physical therapy, and I was back to normal. I had been enjoying a back pain-free life until about two weeks ago, when I re-injured myself helping a friend move and a heavy object's box fell apart and left me hurting again...Mike

A: Hi Mike, I am happy to hear that your surgery provided you such instant and long lasting relief. I am also sorry to hear about your recent relapse. I hope you can find faster and less invasive resolution this time around. Let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Dear Sir, I am suffering with 2 herniated discs in my neck at 6 and 7 as scan shows since long time age, and I have every day back pain and headache.please can you advise me? is there any permanent solution? or that needs an operation? Mohamad

A: Hi Mohamad, I typically do not recommend surgery for herniated discs, but you will have to talk to your doctor regarding the specifics of your own case. Just remember to consider all your options carefully before making a choice. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: My wife has had rather nasty back pain on off for years, but it has always been temporary. She has always attributed it to an accident she had on the farm as a child in which a hay wagon rolled over her. This January things changed. She developed a terrible lower back pain that didn't go away. For weeks she had spasms that had her writhing on the floor. She went to a chiropractor (her standard treatment in the past) but that didn't work. Then she went to a massage therapist for weeks but that didn't seem to affect things either. She's been gradually getting better but it's improving so slowly, it could be the end of the year or even longer before she feels substantially better. She has always maintained her health well, always walked vigorously for exercise, is in good shape (not overweight) and really is the last person in the world to deserve this. It's now summer and she's becoming depressed that she can't do more than walk once around the block without getting into pain.

I myself formerly suffered from minor lower back pains occasionally (quarterly or so) and was getting to the point where every year I'd have a painful freeze-up episode that would take several visits to the chiropractor to solve. Then I started swimming regularly (about 5 years ago) and have not had a single incident of either minor or major back pain since. I have recommended swimming avidly to my wife but she refuses because she hates to be in the water. She tried swimming for one month several years ago to try to help a more minor situation, but it didn't help and so she's convinced that this would just be an aggravation for her. But this really bothers me because if it would work for her as well as it did for me, it would cost only $20 a month and she would be totally pain free at no risk.

I don't know where to turn. Chiropractors recommend chiropractic. Massage therapists recommend massage. The guys with the back-stretching machines recommend a $5000 12-week back stretch. The guys with the turn-you-upside-down machines recommend being upside down. Surgeons recommend surgery. I have found nothing but a bunch of vested interests, both locally and on the web. Your site is the only place where I've found a person with apparently nothing to gain recommending a cheap/free therapy that I know is effective at least in my own case, but unfortunately I can't force her to use that. I need to either find an objective practitioner (not someone vested in one particular type of cure), preferably someone who understands non-surgical solutions, or I need to find a way to get my wife to swim (a swimming-as-therapy support group?). Can you help me? David

A: Hi David, I appreciate your well thought out letter. What has your wife been diagnosed with in the past? Has there ever been a diagnosis as to why she has pain? I always recommend an MRI whenever possible, just so that you know what your are dealing with...

All that aside, I think swimming is excellent, but it is obviously not her thing, so it will NOT be therapeutic in her case. I would recommend knowledge therapy, since I feel there might be some underlying causation which she might be aware of, but does not associate directly with her back pain. This is common with such long standing pain complaints such as hers... If you have more diagnostic info available, please send it along and I will do my best to help. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am a 48 yr old female farmer. 5ft.120lbs,and only slightly overweight. Severe back pain and muscle spasms that radiate up my back began last fall with periodic fever at night. As I work the pain decreased only to return at night. Worst in the morning. Several months later fever is gone as are muscle spasms but I get little sleep from pain. What can I do, and what is it? Is it ok to continue lifting heavy loads? My G.P. who didn't examine me said everyone gets this and don't worry about it. I'm not worried, just in pain and tired. Andrea

A: Hi Andrea, Everyone does not get this and the fever might indicate something far worse than simple back pain. I recommend you fire that GP and find a doctor who will give you a proper exam and the time of day...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Can an emotional event in your life cause sciatica? Beth

A: Hi Beth, Definitely. Lots of information on this topic in my "psychological back pain" and "knowledge therapy" sections. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have been training for golf ,for hopefully going pro. i practice every day and about a month ago my back started to hurt i thought it was a pulled muscle i gave it 3 days to heal when i went back to golf it didn't really hurt later it didn't at all hurt .but soon it started hurting again like a pulled muscle did it not heal completely or do i need to stretch my back more often. or is my swing causing it to re-injure i am only 15 i feel like i should not be having back issues but i am 6'4 tall and my flexibility isn't the greatest i also started to do weight training to strengthen my back with light weights what should i do and not do. Trent

A: Hi Trent, There are no particular stretches or exercises which will guarantee having no back pain from golf. Basically, you must just hope that the symptoms your are experiencing are temporary and not lined to any chronic physical or psycho-emotional concern. I was right around your age when I developed my back pain, so I know it is a time of great emotional turmoil. If the symptoms continue, I recommend a full exam by a qualified physician to rule out any serious structural causes. I wish you luck on your game. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi. For the past 10 years or so I have had an extremely painful pinpoint area in my lower left back. It only strikes me when I bend or twist to that exact point, which I can locate with my finger tip. This pain is like being shot with a taiser gun or a muscle spasm which feels like it's tying itself into a knot, but can go away within minutes or can stay for days with pain such as a bad sunburn. Over the past 10 years or so it only gives me problems if I ever hit that exact position, but usually goes away within minutes if I get out of that position. I have been working out with no problems, lifting weights and aerobics until now. It seems that now, besides this area, I have developed a constant mild general pins and needles pain which is more noticeable while sitting. And on top of that I seem to get other pains in other areas of my back for no reason, like the day after a lifting weights workout when you're sore and also a pain in my ribs. Plus I have a very stiff and painful bottom of my spin which I can feel as I bend straight down as far as I can go. I got my back checked and they took an MRI. The doctor said everything looks normal with the slight exception of something pretty close to a nerve, which,"shouldn't be causing me any problems at all". So I asked him what is causing all this pain and he said I have a sprain and I should go for physical therapy. Well there's no way I just have a sprain which has lasted for 10 years, so I don't know what it is. I have recently tried self physical therapy (recommended lower back stretches) which has made my back more flexible until yesterday when I must've hit that specific angle in my lower left back, which has been tender for the past 3 days. Is there any possible advice you might have for me, since I have no idea what is wrong? Thx. Alan

A: Hi Alan, The condition sounds to me like it could be one of 2 things. Being that for many years it was very specific, that sound like a physical structural issue, but should have been something very obvious on the MRI. If the doctors cleared you on that, I suspect it might be the second option...There is a very good chance you have build up a conditioned response to hurting that particular area when you move or touch it a certain way. This is a psychosomatic condition. Obviously, it has been successful, but something has caused it to escalate and expand in symptomology. If this is the reality of the condition, knowledge therapy is the route to go. I does not sound like a muscle sprain to me either...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: March of 2007 I has a severe fall.My chest hit a large cement flower pot and I was taken to the hospital where it was found I was bleeding internally and they had to remove my spleen. A few months later my back started to bother me and on June 2nd 2008 I had to have back surgery. Now this was supposed to be for a flattened disc they found but instead they removed a cyst found on my spine. Could all these new problems have anything to do with my accident in March of 2007? and why did the cyst not show up in the MRI. Sincerely, Dolores.

A: Hi Dolores, These events may or may not have anything to do with your accident. There is no way for me to know. As far as why the cyst did not show up on the MRI, you would have to ask your doctor. It sounds very strange to me indeed. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I was dealing with constant back + leg pain for over 4 years. While working in heavy construction it became unbearable. I couldn't take medications to ease the pain because of the nature of my work. I had many tests prior to surgery. discogram which i do not recommend for anyone! I laminotomy,diskectomy,+foramintomy performed. They sent me home hours after the surgery. I was surprised to say the least , but with Ins CO'S the way they are it did not shock me. i FELT RELIEF as soon as I woke up .I do feel much relief after 2 mos. I pushed myself to the limit with walking + physical exercise. I am very concerned about returning to heavy construction + risking the wellness that i have welcomed. I did get laid off from my job . Maybe it was a blessing in disguise. I'm just not sure if I SHOULD CONTINUE IN MY LINE OF WORK. Rob

A: Hi Rob, Thanks for writing with some info about your own particular story. I am so happy to hear that the surgery went well for you and I hope the relief lasts forever. It is always good to get a positive result from something as serious as a surgical procedure. I send you my best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: hi, my name is Rumi. a week back i had the worst pain ever, starting from my lower back, hips, butt thighs till my knees. i had to go to the hospital in emergency at 2:00 AM and i got 2 pain killer injections which finally relieved the pain. i had UTI due to which the doctor thought i might have some kidney problem and got my urine tested but the tests were clear. i had to take some antibiotics... the pain didn't come back but i keep experiencing similar pain every now and then but its not as severe as that one but i am scared it will repeat. what is it? is it sciatica or stones in the kidney? please help, Rumi

A: Hi Rumi, It is difficult to tell if the UTI and kidney concerns might be coincidental or related. The back and leg pain is unlikely to be from kidney stones or any one particular spinal cause. I recommend going for a complete check up and having a battery of diagnostic work done. If they can eliminate anything serious from the equation, there is nothing to worry about, which should resolve your relapses...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am glad I found this web site, and wish I had found it earlier because it provides a lot of information. However, upon reading some of the articles, I feel that you think most back and spine pain is psychological in origin. I have a very serious physical cause for my spinal problems (degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, etc.), and permanent disabling nerve damage as a result. The diagnosis was related to nearly every bone in my neck. Without the surgery I had, I would be in a wheelchair, probably paralyzed from the neck down. Without pain pills and muscle relaxants, I'm in agony.But the only part of me that's been closely studied with X-Rays, MRI's and a CT scan is my neck. My back pain may or may not be related to my neck problems, but I don't think it's psychological. I do know, however, that my pain gets worse when I'm tired, tense, upset, or angry. In that respect, there is definitely a component of my pain that is psychological.However, I would be careful about trying to convince people their problems are all in their mind. My symptoms were so bizarre and so extensive that for a long time doctors could not figure out what was wrong with me, and I often thought I was imagining some of those symptoms. The symptoms ranged from sharp sudden pain in various parts of my body to muscle spasms, twitches, tics, shaking hands, headaches, facial pain, numbness in my arms and legs, stiffness, incontinence, etc. Thinking some of this was my imagination caused me to delay treatment because I didn't realize I had such a serious medical problem. By the time I saw a neurosurgeon about my neck, I was on the verge of paralysis, barely able to use my arms or my right leg, and in horrible pain. The most severe of my symptoms came on very suddenly after a long period in which the symptoms crept up on me gradually. The surgeon basically treated me as an emergency patient, scheduling an operating room the minute he saw my MRI results.My neck problems involved all the bones of my neck except C2-C3. Because my spinal cord was already severely compressed, a minor slip-and-fall accident could have resulted in complete paralysis or even death.If people reading your website have a serious physical problem like mine, yet you convince them the pain is psychological, they may delay treatment like I did and end up with the permanent nerve damage and chronic pain that I now have, or worse yet end up paralyzed or dead. I hope that somewhere on your web site you tell people about danger signs to look for that should cause them to forget about mind over matter and get help through surgery. For example, incontinence is a big red flag and if you've got exaggerated reflexes (when the doctor taps your knee, for instance), it indicates spinal cord damage. Sharon

A: Hi Sharon, All this objective info about structural instances of back pain, spinal cord damage, cauda equina syndrome, etc is already on there. Maybe, you just missed it. In fact, I have written an entire new informational resource with many articles ready to be published on complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries... Your case is extreme and certainly represents less than one tenth of one percent of most back pain patients. Remember also that there is nothing correct about considering that psychosomatic pain is "all in your mind" as you put it. That is exactly the myth I am trying to dispel with this site. Psychosomatic pain can be exactly like yours...extreme and bodily, with the only difference being a psychological causation, not a structural one. It is the most common type of back pain hands down...

I wish you well on your recovery and I am so happy you have decided to share some of your story with me. I send you my best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Reply: Hi, Since my message contained very strong reservations, feel free to NOT publish it on your web site because I don't want to scare people who would benefit from alternative cures. Fusion surgery of your neck is extremely scary, and I surely wouldn't have it done unless it was needed. But in my case the consequences of not having the surgery were scarier.

Yes, I think I do have a fairly rare condition, yet I run into people quite often who have similar problems and have had surgery to fuse their neck. My neurosurgeon told me he had done 3,000 such surgeries. So it might not be as rare as one would think. Only recently, I have met three other people who have had cervical spine fusion surgery. Of the three, two continued to have pain that required daily medication -- one of them takes prescription morphine and the other uses Lyrica. I met the third person by happenstance at a restaurant, and he didn't say whether he continued to have pain, but he said he was very glad he had the surgery. Of the four of us, myself included, only the woman who used morphine regretted having had surgery, and though she has been told she needs additional surgery, she refuses to do it. In my opinion, she'd probably feel less pain if she'd agree to the additional surgery.

However, I am definitely of the opinion that a person's mental attitude towards pain is at least 50 percent of the problem, or 50 percent of the cure, and that pain causes more pain due to muscles tensing up around the site of the injury. Stress, anxiety, and depression can cause pain or add to the pain you've already got from a serious spinal problem such as mine. Dwelling on pain makes it feel worse, but sometimes pain gets so bad that you dwell on it even if you don't want to do that. It can just about swallow you up. I'm a very out-doorsy person and love to go fishing and camping, work in my yard, barbecue, walk my dog, etc. When I'm able, I do the things I most enjoy even though I know it will result in vastly increased pain afterwards. But during those activities, I am having such a good time that I often don't take any notice of my pain. Until afterwards.

I learned from physical therapy that there are many drug-free things you can do that help with pain, ranging from exercises to posture adjustments, and even to the way you get in and out of bed. But there were also some types of exercise I was told NOT to do because they would cause more harm than good. I am particularly in favor of the use of pain pills, though, because yesterday I had finally been able to get a prescription for Vicodin and Flexeril after going for months with no type of pain control other than Ibuprofen and aspirin, which do not help whatsoever. The main reason I had to endure this was that I have no insurance and no "family doctor" right now, and the doctors I've gone to are very reluctant to prescribe appropriate pain control because of the dangers and risks such as those you cite on your website. I haven't tried all the possible solutions, such as Lyrica, because they cost too much. I can usually afford the cheap opioid pain relievers such as hydrocodone, yet have had trouble getting prescriptions for them. One doctor told me it's because I have chronic pain, not regular pain, so she could not prescribe hydrocodone or oxycodone, though they work very well for me if combined with a muscle relaxant. The last two pain pill prescriptions I got were for Darvocet, which are almost as useless as aspirin and only have any effect at all if taken in conjunction with other prescription pain killers or muscle relaxants. I've discovered that Tramadol is also completely useless to me, unless combined with Darvocet, and even then the combination is not very effective. The relief I felt after taking that first dosage of Vicodin (hydrocodone) with Flexeril (muscle relaxant) yesterday was astonishing and dramatic, even though it was not a complete cure for the pain. I was so accustomed to constant severe pain that I had no idea I was in that much pain until some of it went away after I took the pain meds. I feel so much better now that I plan to write a sincere thank-you note to the doctor who prescribed them.

I have had this very painful condition for years before it was treated, yet prior to late 2006, I had refused almost all offers of pain control prescriptions and had almost never taken prescription pain meds. But then I discovered that my pain not only made me miserable, but also made my blood pressure increase so much it became life-threatening, and that taking a pain pill -- not a blood pressure med -- brought it down to normal almost instantly. I resent that because there are many people who abuse pain medication or take it for recreational use, there's become a stigma about it and it's harder to get for those of us who need it most. It wasn't so long ago that doctors didn't even recognize the need for pain control, even for people with terminal cancer. And conditions such as fibromyalgia were not taken seriously and sometimes went untreated. Even now, I think some doctors do major surgery on infants without giving them pain meds afterwards, which shows there is still a misunderstanding of how important pain control can be.I feel that some of your comments on your web site perpetuate the fears and stigmas associated with the use of pain meds that make them so hard for some of us to acquire. Not everybody who takes pain pills abuses them or takes more than the prescribed amount. In fact, I take less than the prescribed amount -- I break them apart, and also break apart the muscle relaxants, so that I take only the amount I need, in order to tolerate my pain and perform routine daily activities such as cleaning the house, cooking, grocery shopping, etc. I only take the entire prescribed amount after doing activities that cause a big increase in my pain, such as working in my yard. On days when I can tolerate my pain, I take no pain meds at all. In the past year, using the methods just described, I've been able to stretch a month's supply of pain meds into a 6-month supply. This prevents me from developing a tolerance and is also important because I know I would have a hard time getting a refill, so I have to use them very sparingly. I can hardly fault Rush Limbaugh for the time he was accused of "doctor-shopping" for pain pills, because when you need them you need them, yet they are often very difficult to get. It's true that you can become addicted to them, but like all other medical treatments, doctors need to measure the benefits against the risks. When you can no longer do routine activities due to pain, I think the benefits outweigh the risks.

In my case, I've found oxycodone to be way more effective than morphine (I got both of these in the hospital following surgery). But it's very unlikely I will ever find a doctor willing to prescribe oxycodone or oxycontin on an ongoing basis. Hydrocodone is a good second choice, if mixed with a muscle relaxant, because it provides enough pain relief that the pain is at least tolerable. But hydrocodone is also hard for me to get on a regular basis. Drugs such as Darvocet and Tramadol are easier to obtain, but neither of these works for me in and of themselves. However, they do provide a small measure of pain control if mixed with a second type of prescription pain reliever -- either a muscle relaxant or the Darvocet and Tramadol broken in half so that I can take a half of each at the same time, combined with 2 or 3 ibuprofen. The pain doesn't go away and often remains somewhat intolerable, but it lessens enough that I'd rather have these types of drugs than to have nothing at all. I've also tried the antidepressant Cymbalta, which is a surprisingly good pain reliever but has a lot of unwanted side effects.

I don't know if you want to print this, but the very best pain reliever for nerve pain seems to be marijuana. I've tried it and it is absolutely the only drug that completely rid me of pain for a while. But I don't use it because I cannot stand the effects -- the "high" you get -- though many people smoke it just to get that high. Yuck. I hate feeling like that. I'd rather have the pain.I wish there was a version of pot that you could use that didn't make you high, but since the government and medical community look askance at marijuana, I doubt they'll ever figure out what makes it such a great nerve pain drug and will never determine how to re-create the pain control effect without it producing a "high." They'll also never acknowledge that it has this effect, and will never fully legalize its use.The woman I met who used morphine for pain control combined it with smoking pot, because the morphine didn't completely relieve her pain (note that I myself found morphine to be less effective than oxycodone).For those who can control their pain with no surgery and no drugs at all, more power to you. I wish I could remember those days. Sharon

A: Hi Sharon, Thank you for the long and detailed reply. As I said before and repeat again, you are not typical of an "average" back pain patient in many ways...You can not please everyone with every bit of information provided. What I try to do is target the articles to (logically) help the largest audience and patients who display the most common factors. Among these are people who demonstrate clear psychosomatic pain and those who get into trouble with pain relievers. I am sure your experiences are valid and your surgeon's, as well. But, as you cite 4 examples of people with similar situations and your surgeon cites 3000 over the course of a career, it is a small pool and there is no knowing how many of these 3000 are misdiagnosed and never required surgery. Statistics say at least 75%...Meanwhile I speak to at least that many (5000+) every month for years now...(just like I am speaking to you..in great detail...) My point is this. I appreciate all your words and suggestions and will take them to heart. However, I continue on the path I have laid out, not by accident, but instead by purposeful intention, since I have seen the most good realized from this path. My advice is not applicable to all and might only be partially applicable to some, but the ones who can benefit are legion...I am sure you can understand this. Sharon, please stay in touch with me and let me know how you are doing. I would love to publish your original letter and your reply, since it does present a valuable opinion which might help someone out there and therefore embraces my policy or objectivity and assistance for all. I send you my very best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hello, I had a 3 level spinal fusion when I was 39. I have 2 cages ,8 skews and 2 rods. I have terrible arthritis and have had it since my twenties. Needless to say, the older I get the more pain I am in. I am fused completely. My bone graft always hurts. My left leg is numb with pins and needles all the time. I now am having muscle tremors. I hate to complain but I am in so much pain. Now, my low back is on fire which goes to the hip error and down my left leg. Some days my left leg is 3 times bigger than my right. My left foot is always swollen and I have pins and needles in it 24/7. Now, I am noting numbness. I go back to the spine doctor tomorrow. Could not see him only his PA. Is there any hope for me to get back to normal. I am now 45 and life is getting to hard for me.Thanks in advance for listening to me.Have a wonderful night. Ann

A: Hi Ann, This is a classic case of failed back surgery syndrome and no surprise it is due to a fusion procedure. There is always hope for returning to normal, but after such an invasive surgery, it is obviously an uphill battle. Out of curiosity, what was the condition your doctor was trying to treat when you has the fusion performed? Is it the spinal osteoarthritis or something else? I would be very interested in seeing your pre-op MRI report...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: when is it in my chair,i have pulling of nerves or a short stress in muscle on lower left back just above hip.its frequently comes four to five times a day.i have also left ankle front side bit painful when i lift my ankle.is both related to each other.what might be cause,please help me out, imthiyaz

A: Hi Imthiyaz, Yes, the conditions might be related and typically are. The cause might be spinal, such as a herniated disc, or could be something as innocent as simple ischemia. I recommend you go to your doctor for a complete exam and let me know what the diagnosis is. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I had a hard fall at work 2 months ago and hurt my back bad. Went to ER and they did an x-ray and said it was tissue damage? After 2 months of being in extreme pain and going to physio and extensive rehab they thought I was able to star work. Well I tried it and the first day at work with very limited duties, I was unable to do them and went to my Doctor right after work. He took x-rays and I have 2 fractured disks L1 and L4. don't know why the ER missed this. What are my best options now for recovery? randi

A: Hi Randi, The things you are telling me do not make sense, so I think there must be some terminology problems here. Discs do not fracture, vertebrae fracture. Discs also do not show up on x-rays, so do you mean you have 2 fractured vertebrae? If this is correct, try to provide me with as much of your actual diagnosis as possible so that I may advise you correctly. Especially important is the nature and location of the fractures...on the facet joint or the vertebral body itself?...Thanks and will look forward to getting more info from you, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: My husband has had 2 back surgeries The last one he had a fusion and 2 pins inserted in his lower back. that was 4 years ago and he is still having as much pain if not more than before the surgery. Is there anything that can be done to help him? I would like to see him without pain and to be able to get through the day without pain medication. Thank you, Louise

A: Hi Louise, I would like that also. Unfortunately, failed back surgery is very common and your husband is one of millions suffering these endless symptoms, especially from spinal fusion. It is a barbaric practice. I wish I had an answer for how to cure him, but I do not. All I can do is recommend that he keep looking for a specialist who might take interest in his care. I wish I had the chance to speak to you or him BEFORE the operation. I send you my best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: sir age 48,diabetic,obese 100 kg,mild cardiac ;lumber spondo...pl inform appropriate treatment and pain killer which can not increase diabetes and cardiac problem P.Kumar

A: Hi P Kumar, These are issues which you must discuss with your doctor, but it would be far better to rid yourself of the obesity rather than allow it to limit your treatment options. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi friend I'm fortunate that i found your site.Since last 10 months i had been suffering from back pain.I saw qualified doctors who suggested me for various tests like X-Ray,U.S.G but found nothing so important to get panic.Then i showed to a doc. who tell me to go for MRI,the result obtained from MRI writes "Small posterocentral disc protrusion L2/3 I.V disc leading to thecal sac indentation".I'm under treatment of that doctor and seems to be better but, sometimes whenever i play or do rigorous work the pain in lower back increases a lot.Doctor suggest me some back care and exercise which I'm doing regularly........Can i be completely recover what is your suggestion regarding MRI..what should i do to start playing again..I'm very nervous please help me......My back is still paining....Is there be anything serious. waseem

A: Hi Waseem, I doubt that the small disc herniation is even the source of pain..not for 10 months already. It does not seem serious to me. I recommend knowledge therapy and see how that works for you, since medical care is not doing much to help. Let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Since one year, I have back pain only at one particular spot I am not able to move back /stretch my right hand. Several tests like chest X-ray, Scanning whole abdomen, blood and urine tests etc., are normal. But sometimes, i will get uncontrollable back pain at that time i take painkillers, it will reduce to some extent, but not completely. Again i will get my pain.I took homeopathy treatment and allopathic treatment. But no use. They are not able to get conclusions. I have one small kid 21/2 yr old. After delivery i got back pain. Is that related in any way.......If I lie down and relax to a certain extent I get relief. Again pain comes back. Please suggest me. Waiting for your reply. Regards, gayathri

A: Hi Gayathri, I doubt that your hand problem has anything to do with your delivery. Most pregnancy and birth related back concerns occur in the lower spine, while your hand is related to the lower cervical / upper thoracic spine. Where exactly is your pain? Did you have an MRI, as well? Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I had a discectomy in may and the doctor said he had to put a pin in my back Why? this my 3rd back surgery, Elizabeth

A: Hi Elizabeth, If you are asking me why the doctor put a pin in your back, I would have no idea. There are many possible reasons for this and I recommend you ask your doctor about his or her reason directly. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hello my name is Kristin and I am 15 yrs old. I have written to you before in regards to my scolioses. My top curve is 30 degrees. (At least the last time I went to the dr) anyway I have been doing lots of pt and it has helped with the pain some even if hands on stuff only works for a day to relive stiffness etc. I'm writing because lately I have had some trouble breathing. Ive read only severe curves cause this but I was wondering because my curve is high in my spine it preses on one of my lungs or compressing it or something. Either that if its because of my bad hunched posture. I'm pretty sure it's because of my back because this hasn't happened before. Any suggestions or comments would greatly appreciated! Thank you, sincerely,Kristin

A: Hi Kristin, This is certainly possible, but highly unlikely from a 30 degree curvature. I recommend you ask to your doctor about this occurrence. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, I'm so glad I found your site! "They" i.e. doctors, were moving me to the old folks home with their scary diagnosis. They got it all wrong! I have sciatica type symptoms which I have had on and off since my 30's. My last attack left me with numbness in my left leg. I got an MRI and an EMG. The EMG has somehow left me with twitching in the leg. When the doctor saw the test results she jumped on the degenerative disk disease as a diagnosis. I was never to run (I've been running for 30 yrs) or bike again in my life. I was essentially now an old lady who would have to be very careful if I wanted to keep walking. She chose to listen only to the symptoms that fit her diagnosis and ignored the rest.I don't know what's wrong, but it's not back pain, rather it is the hip and left leg. I've had x-rays and there's nothing wrong with the hip itself. I have no solution at this time, but I want to thank you for putting up this site it really helped me to put the DDD diagnosis in perspective. Luhren

A: Hi Luhren, Your are very welcome and I am happy it helped you. I recommend trying knowledge therapy for the hip pain. Dr. Sarno has quite a bit of hip specific information in his book "Healing Back Pain" Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: To start out with I have had lower back pain for most of my life. I was seeing a chiropractor in the 8th grade which I think made the pains worse. At the age of 20 I went to see another one. He took x-rays of my back and told me several problems he found..examples... disc out of line most of the way down my spine, tail bone too low ( and I can really tell that one a lot of times just sitting down). But I was able to live with most of that pain. A little over a year ago I injured my back while working. I was trying to throw something too heavy up and twisted wrong when I did. I felt an instant pain in the thoracic region of my back. X-rays really didn't show anything. The MRI showed a few bulging disc. I went through PT and pain pills and anti imflammatories. None of which helped. Since it was an accident at work workers comp was handling my medical care. After frustrations of being pulled around with nothing done I had settled with them. The last doctor that I had seen gave me permanent restrictions of not being able to lift over 10 pounds again. The pain is getting worse and I don't know what to do. I don't have insurance to go see a doctor. It starts right next to my spine and goes under my right shoulder blade. To touch it brings me to tears even just the pillow on my bed hurts it. The first doctor told me it was just in my head it shouldn't be that tender to touch. Any ideas of what could be going on and how to get relief? They told me they couldn't do surgery because of where the disc were bulging at. But I have to do something. This pain is really interfering with my life. The lower back pain is even getting worse. If I lay on my stomach to sleep at night when I wake the next morning my back is locked up and I cant move for a while without screaming out in pain. I am only 31 years old I have too much of my life to live like this. Nicole

A: Hi Nicole, Judging from what you have told me, along with what the doctors are saying, I recommend knowledge therapy for you. There is no cost involved and no risk. I think this treatment will help you tremendously, if you devote yourself to it. I wish you well and stay in touch to let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Subsequent to a foraminotomy on C7/T1 (7/10/07) I have had severe/constant muscle spasms in the rhomboid/levator muscles - right adjacent to where the surgery was done. I have seen many different practitioners over the past eleven months in an effort to get the muscle spasm to release. They have not been successful and(frustratingly) have suggested a range of reasons for the spasms and suggested different reasons and modalities, all to no avail. It is my considered opinion that the muscles went into spasm from being cut on and have not released to date. Do you know of or have you heard of any treatment that my help me out of this mess? I appreciate your attention to this. Mike

A: Hi Mike, I have heard of this happening more times than I can remember. This is one of the many reasons why I virtually never recommend surgery for any type of back pain. Unfortunately, I have not heard much about successful resolution of failed back surgery syndrome, which is what you are suffering from. Dr. Sarno has enjoyed some success dealing with these types of issues using his TMS approach, but very little else has shown real promise. I wish I had better news...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hello, I have a few herniated discs in my neck and in my lower back. To be more specific, I have 3 herniated and 3 bulging in my neck. and two in my lower back. Despite how bad that sounds, I really don't suffer from any major pain and stay away from exercises in the gym that generally bother my neck (ex shoulder presses..I usually go really light when it comes to that particular exercise). I can tell from my mri that I have DDD because of the color of my disc's in my neck that go from light grey to black in my cervical spine. I guess my question is, Is there any way to stop the further degeneration of my discs. What sort of supplements should I be taking for disc's (supplement wise) I appreciate your feed back. Kalvin

A: Hi Kalvin, Many recommend glucosamine and chondroitin to help in maintaining healthy discs. I am not 100% convinced, since I tried this myself with no results, but it surely will not hurt you to try. The cost can prohibitive for some, since quality G&C supplements are expensive. Otherwise, I would not be too concerned about the DDD. Your attitude is great and if you can maintain that easy going nature, I doubt you will ever have any serious problems. Also, smoking is really bad for the discs, so if you do smoke, you might consider quitting. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: What did you do to get rid of the pain? My family started having some stressful times and my pain began. Everytime I even talk about the issue or think about it the pain starts. No pain medicine works, Linda

A: Hi Linda, You can read about my cure, Knowledge therapy, here:
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/chronic-lumbar-back-pain.html
and
http://www.cure-back-pain.org/alternative-medicine-for-back-pain.html
Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Can you help? I had a discectomy in 1991 and have had a couple of occassions afterwards when I had very severe bouts of pain but nothing really in the last 3 years. I now have a very high pain threshold. My question is - I was involved in a road traffic accident 5 weeks ago & it caused me very bad pain in my back. My docotor (GP) said it could be torn scar tissue. I also have pain when I urinate & feel as though I need to visit the toilet alot throughout the day & night. I feel if I wait I would wet myself. Is this normal & how long is it likely to last? Thanks, Tracey

A: Hi Tracey, Without knowing the extent of your original condition or even the location, it is difficult to advise you. However, the symptoms you are describing could be a serious matter and should be referred to your doctor ASAP. I recommend an MRI of the area to check for any large scale complications. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have a herniated disc at L5-S1 and am in quite a lot of pain.I purchased an Inversion Table and ever since I started to fully invert the pain has gotten worse.Could I be irritating the injury somehow and should I stop using the table.Thanks Bruce

A: Hi Bruce, I am not a big fan of inversion, although many patients swear by it. I doubt you are doing anything to aggravate the pain with the table, but it is unlikely that you are doing anything at all to help it either. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I'm a 42 year old female, with normal BMI and I walk 3 miles 5-6 times a week. For the last 5 months I have had intermittent lower right back/buttock pain. The pain is in the buttock area occurs on occasion while sitting for long periods and is dull. When walking I occasionally get a stabbing pain which radiates down my right thigh in the front (not back) and stops at the knee. The pain is always first felt near my SI joint. My doctor ordered X-rays and the preliminary findings reported to me was "Loss of normal lumbar curvature - no disc space narrowing". Would this be the cause of my pain? What causes a loss of curvature? Can this be corrected? Sue

A: Hi Sue, This is very normal. Lordosis is often blamed for pain, but rarely causes it. Usually, the condition is caused by muscular tension relating to subconscious stress. There are physical reasons for loss of the normal lordosis to occur as well, but your doctor would have found these easily. I have had a "straight lumbar spine and neck" for years and this was often blamed for my pain. Obviously, it was not the actual cause...I would not be concerned, but if the pain continues, I would recommend knowledge therapy. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am a 52 year old female. Early this morning I experienced sudden excruiting pain between my shoulders and a severe burning, similar to heartburn, in my chest. I felt as if I were going to faint. The pain left abruptly after about 5 minutes and I could here swooshing noise in my ears. That abruptly stopped also. Could it be my heart? Deborah

A: Hi Deborah, You should report any sudden symptoms such as these to your doctor for immediate evaluation. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I've read much on your site and still don't know what you offer. Is it a book, product or just a forum? I am in great pain, have bulging discs in the lumbar region, have had back trouble for years and would heal quickly an back to 100% in a short time. This time is different, more debilitating, persistant, and painful for 6 weeks now with no end in site. I will be starting PT today. What can you offer me? Glen

A: Hi Glen, My site is a free informational resource set up to help people just like you. I am not trying to sell you anything. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have been diagnosed with spondylosis,lumbar sacral spine l3-4,l5,s1,DDD, doctor suggested a spinal cord stimulator.I've already had injections and the nerve burnt from my left leg to my brain to no avail.he has me on vicodin,norco,peracet and flexeril which i don't like taking.an operation is not a choice after hearing the extent of recovery and the odds of it being satisfactory. any suggestions would be appreciated for i am in extreme pain. Tom

A: Hi Tom, Do you have MRI results available? If so , I would like to look at the report. Thanks, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi I am a vet affairs disability, with what i think is Lumber spinal stenosis.Ive be diagnosed with lower lumber disc disease as well as Thoracic spondylosis.My problem is ,is that my Dr continues to avoid treatment for this.Ive 5 steroid injections in my lower back in 07,but this has not made any difference.I have pain down to my right ankle,from my lower back,with pins and needles.This has got considerable worse in the last 15 months.Iam 43 yrs of age,2 boys 11 and 14.I really need to go to a Dr that is going to treat me and not send me off to numerous other Drs,just to spread the Vet Affairs payments around.I am desperate and very depressed,which is what my Dr seems to be concerned with than trying to fix or at least alleviate my pain.Can you help me please? I live in nsw around an 1 hour north of Sydney,easy travel by train or car thanks again. Kerrie

A: Hi Kerrie, Yes this is the problem with Vets benefits all around the world I am afraid. Often poor medical service and very few satisfied customers. It is a shame indeed...

What exactly are you hoping for the doctor to do? If you have read the site, you will know that medical management of pain is FAR more common than a cure for any back pain, regardless of vet status or not. Most doctors consider surgery their only real curative option and this is a terrible consideration.

If you have MRI results available, I will be happy to take a look and let you know what I think. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: My pain in the right side of the back started few days after having a sharp pain in my right abdominal area. Now i started doing the back excercises did give me a temporary relief but as soon as i stopped doing excercises it came back. Nothing comes up in ultra sound and Xray and my doctor is not sugesting anything further? And thats bothering me its been 6 months. I can work out, can play cricket, golf nothing changes its a mild pain. Any possible reason what may cause this pain? how can i work towards getting it fixed? Robbie

A: Hi Robbie, A correct diagnosis is always needed, otherwise you do not know what you are trying to fix. If the doctor found nothing and exercise gives temporary relief, it is most likely an ischemia syndrome. In this case, knowledge therapy is the only effective cure. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hello, Four years ago at the age of 24 I was diagnosed with Grade 1 Mild Spondylothesis at the L5 to S1 vertebrae. After some physical therapy I did great, until now. For the last two months my back has started to bother me again. I went to my primary physician to have another x-ray done to see if my condition is getting worse The x-ray report stated that I had a 6 centimeter (2.36 inch) slip at the L5 to S1. I asked my physician if I was still at a grade 1 or if my slip has worsened. He said he did not understand how the grades worked and how to convert the centimeters into percentage. Can you please let me know what grade a 6 centimeter slip is and with Spondylothesis is it normal to have pain flare ups from time to time? Also, is it common for the slipped to worsen over time? Any help would be appreciated. Brandy

A: Hi Brandy, Spondylolisthesis can worsen over time, although the drastic change in yours is very usual. You are definitely beyond grade 1 at this point. I can not tell you the exact grade, since it is a relative measure of percentage as you know, and I do not have the measurements of your normal vertebrae. Your physician should be able to figure this out easily if they have your test results...

Spondy is generally a pain free condition, but at this advanced stage, pain is certainly possible. Being that your doctor does not seem to have much insight into the condition, you might consider seeing a specialist. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: hi, my name is Rachel. I have read 3 of the books on TMS that you have highlighted on your website, so thanks for this information. However, i am still suffering pain on my left lower back, buttock and back of left leg. I have had this problem for over 5 months now, and have been to several physical therapists and no one has helped stop the pain. I believe it is psychosomatic, and the pain has became less frequent, but when i try to get back into my running i still get pain in my left lower back area. It is frustrating and i feel in total despair and i very depressed as a result. Please could you let me know of any possible way of getting over this problem. Can there be anything else wrong with me, and will it go away? Rachel

A: Hi Rachel, I would have no way of knowing if there is anything else wrong with you, but it sounds like it might very well be psychosomatic to me. My recommendation is to re-read the books DAILY. In order to heal my pain, I read Dr. Sarno everyday for weeks. I do not know if you read my book, but the entire process is clearly outlined in there. Some patients find it a bit more "spelled out" compared to other sources. If you have read my book, read it again...and again...and again... till the material really sinks in. I am not kidding, this is really the best method of curing the pain. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: hi,my name is Stacey,i`m 16,and my doctor tells me i have pinched nerve. my symptoms are back pain(severe) that is accompanied by head aches,i`m also finding that i often become dizzy very easily, and sometimes for no reason what so ever.is this really all because of a pinched nerve?if so is there any possible(preferably non-surgical) treatments i can get for it in or around newfoundland?i just want the pain and dizziness to stop! Stacey

A: Hi Stacey, How did the doctor come to the conclusion that you had a pinched nerve? Was an MRI or CT scan performed? A pinched nerve might be the reason for these symptoms, but then again, it might not. Regardless, surgery should not even be a thought in your head. Let me know about the diagnostic process used and if you do have MRI results, send them along. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi, My son had an accident at the age of 7, which he suffered fractures to his L1-L4. On discharge of hospital he had healed well and i have had NO problems since then, He is now 12. Are his bones even more tender where he has to be EXTRA careful in any activities he choses? thank you Susan

A: Hi Susan, You should ask his doctor for specific advice, but generally, if he has healed, he should be completely fine and should not be any more or les careful than any other boy his age. In essence, he should do everything boys do...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi, I am 42 and had a micodiscectomy and partial laminectomy on left side of L5-S1 in May 07 stemming from an accident which ruptured 2 discs. I felt great for about a week after surgery (I did have rest and therapy before considering this procedure) then all my symptoms came back, some are worse. I had another MRI this past April which states I have failed back surgery which my surgeon had thought. The new Mri also says I have abnormal T1 and T2 hypo signal intensity changes on left side of the lamina, asymmetrical thickening of nerve root at this level, hypo sig. intensity at L5-S1 compromising the left side of the spinal formina and lesion around the lamina. I have also have muscle atrophy in the entire left leg, last measurement of loss was 1and half inches in both thigh and calf. My lower back (skin) looks dark bruised and Have discoloration all across the back and about 8 inches wide Blotchy looking. I am in pain management but they are telling me there is nothing else that can be done, I have pain across the hips and lower back and left. leg which is constant moderate to severe depending on what and how much I do. I take pecocet10 for the pain but it works only to make it bearable, Do I have any choices left or is he correct that it will continue to get worse and finally paralysis? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated Thank you sincerely Ward

A: Hi Ward, I am very sorry to hear of your situation. As far as your prognosis, it is difficult to say, but the symptoms do not sound good to me. I hope they at least stabilize, rather than continue to deteriorate. I hate to sound like a broken record, but your case is yet another of the many letters I get about failed back surgery. Of all the topics on the site, this one is very sensitive for me, since it is an ongoing concern of huge proportions. Surgeons continue to ruin lives with unnecessary and inappropriate surgeries. There seems to be no end to this madness and virtually no accountability. I really feel for you, my friend...

I wish you the best and please stay in touch to let me know how you are doing, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi I really appreciate what you're doing on your site.What a great help you're providing us back pain sufferers, for that I thank you!I've had 2 episodes of severe lower back pain (I'm going through a really bad one right now) so acute I couldn't even stand up in the first stage.The pain is located on the right lower back and gets worse when I walk or stand up from bed in the morning.Doctors say the damage is in the muscle, and it certainly feels tense.I took some muscle relaxants and anti inflammatory drugs but after 2 weeks I'm still very limited to do any physical work and the pain is still there.Can you give me some advise on how to handle it and recover?Thanks again and God bless. Camilo.

A: Hi Camilo, Back muscle pain is typically induced by subconscious stress more than by injury, but a physical incident can cause a muscular problem anywhere in the body. Typically, muscle relaxants and especially anti-inflammatories are useless for back pain. As long as you don't have a spinal causation for your pain, I recommend some light activity and not too much worry. If the pain does not resolve or comes back frequently, I think knowledge therapy would be a good option to investigate. Stay in touch and let me know how you are doing. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have upper back and shoulder pain that feels like a lot of pins are sticking me.No ointments seem to help.Can you tell me what this pain is and what's causing it,please ?Thank you very much.I also took Aleve and it didn't help either. Carmen

A: Hi Carmen, I can not diagnoses a condition, but to me it sounds like either a muscular or neurological concern. This type of symptom is common in oxygen deprivation syndromes, especially if it is affecting a large area of the back. I always recommend getting a thorough check up with MRI of the spine whenever possible, but I think knowledge therapy might also be a good place to start. Aleve is not going to do anything...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hello, I hurt my back a month ago lifting someone. I took PT for two weeks and every time that they tried to increase exercises it would increasingly get worse, so they would have to back off every time and then they put me on some table to do some back extensions which was an electric table and every time my back would be in that down ward motion it would really hurt my low back and I would start to get sharp shooting pains down my left leg. Now it has been over a week since I last went to therapy and since then I have had an MRI. The findings were on L4-L5 There is narrowing to the left with a mild eccentric disc bulge and findings of fluid on the Left facet joint. On L3-L4 there is an eccentric disc bulge to the Left with underlying broad based bulging of the disc minimally deforms the thecal sac. Mild bilateral neural foraminal narrowing to the left and greater to the right. Could you please tell me what this means and do you think with the findings that this is on a nerve? Thank you. Julie

A: Hi Julie, Forgive me the comment I make so often, but it still surprises me that doctors do not adequately explain these diagnoses to their patients...It is just yet another reason to be completely exasperated with the back pain industry...

Anyway, back to your problem and I apologize for my ranting...

The English translation of your MRI shows 2 mild bulging discs in your lower back. One is touching the sac which surrounds your spinal cord. Both are narrowing the opening through which the nerve roots leave the spinal column. Personally, this condition is so common and I do not see any cause for concern. I would advise that you go easy but stay active. I do not agree with the specific exercises usually given for this type of injury and find them counterproductive. My advice is that the pain should resolve in 6 to 8 weeks total...once you stop aggravating it. remember...I am not a doctor...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: hi, I'm a 19 yr.old woman who just recently started having chronic back and neck pain, along with headaches. the doctors told me i had chronic migraine headaches. but thats a little of the pain. i feel the pain is more from my back and my neck. it never stops popping for more than 5 minuets at a time. my neck and back has been popping, or making noises when i just breathe every few minuets. i don't move to make it pop or put any pressure. this has been going on for now 3 months and no one has been able to help me. so i started my own research. i do have a VERY ABNORMAL tailbone. but the doctors never did anything for me. they say ill be alright. but my whole life i never could sit for more than a hour. never could sit straight-always on my buttocks.and never have layed on my back. its always on my side or stomach, and that don't even help with the pain.I'm in so much pain, even just sitting at this computer. and im desperate for answers. please help me. Jacqueline

A: Hi Jacqueline, Maybe you could elaborate on what a VERY ABNORMAL tailbone means. What exactly is the problems with it? I do not see how it would play a role in your other symptoms, but just to be sure...Have you had an MRI done of the upper spine? If so, what did the results say? This will assist me in helping you. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

COMMENT: I got severe lower backache a month ago. After I got the pain I lifted some weight and sciatic nerve got pulled, numbness below the knee and tingling sensation. After a month bed rest, the numbness and nerve pulling come down. Now when I sit, there is much inconvenience or I do not know is that pain in the spinal cord. Veeresh

A: Hi Veeresh, I am sorry to hear about your pain, but I hope you feel better soon. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: To whom it may concern, I live in Malta and 27years old. I've had back pain for the last 4years.... everyday of my life. I went to physiotherapists, surgeons, specialists and all kind of professional people but nobody seems to know what is my problem. For the last three weeks the pain has also increased. I couldn't go to work, i couldn't take a shower properly, i couldn't bend and wear my socks..... i couldn't do nothing. After my doctor gave me coltramyl and other pills. now i can take a shower (but not my feet)but cant do anything else. Now i have finished the pills and still in pain.I'm taking 2-4 distalgesic painkillers everyday to reduce a little bit the pain. Its true that i am overweight and that is part of the problem. I'm on a diet and i'm losing weight. But sometimes I'm not sure if the extra weight is the problem because I'm in pain when I'm sit down ,when i have to stand up or when I'm in bed and in all three cases my weight is not on my body. On the other hand I'm not in pain when i walk. I cannot understand but I'm near a depression because I'm only 27 and i cannot do anything and I'm still in great pain..... pain that you cannot imagine. I already did an MRI and found only that there is not so much space between the last two discs and they told me that it should not result all the pain that I'm feeling. I went to all the best specialists in Malta but no positive result. :( Please please help me. Waiting for your reply. Thanks for your time reading my email. Anne Marie

A: Hi Anne Marie, As long as your MRI comes back ok, with just normal disc degeneration, I am fairly confident that your pain is most likely ischemic. This is the most common type of pain and the best treatment is knowledge therapy. This is the same method I used to cure my chronic back pain after 18 years suffering. Let me know how it works out for you. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I have an "s" shaped spine that is giving me a lot of pain through the rib and back area. Also have a pinched nerve and bone spurs. Can you help me? Shirley

A: Hi Shirley, An S shape is normal for a spine. What type of help are you looking for? Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: How do I find the best doctor to perform surgery on my back if it is needed? Bruce

A: Hi Bruce, If it is needed, then I recommend interviewing several surgeons, both for their opinion on which procedure is most suited and to ascertain their qualifications. Obviously, large surgical markets will have a much better and larger pool of talent to choose from...Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: i am 38- and when i was 19 i broke my back- L5? and and 26 had a hernia,i have back pain a lot,right now i have spasms going on-since fri- its tue,i pulled something- i think. so i use a heating pad-ice pack doans- back pills flexerol- from drtiger balm- like ben gay and i take long hot baths,but it only seems to help for a little while- please if you have any suggestions let me know- thanks-and your site is so bookmarked John

A: Hi John, Without knowing too much about your condition or whether this is a common event for you or not, I can only advise you generally.... Acute spasms like you are experiencing are usually from oxygen deprivation, but can also result from a muscular injury. The best thing to do is what you have been doing. Try to stay calm and comfortable and wait for the worst to pass. Once that stage is over, you must do everything you can to rehabilitate your body and mind to prevent a recurrence. Best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: I am 77 yrs old, had physical therapy and a MRI. The Dr. determined that Spinal Fusion was the only way to go for slipped discs and Degenerative arthritis and narrowing of the spinal column in the lumbar section.Had the surgery on Aug.7,2007. Used narcotic oxycontin. Stopped taking them and went on over the counter pills.Sometimes they help and sometimes not.I have wound up with Lordosis or Sway back condition.Have tried to walk upright, but it hurts too much.Can I ever get back to the normal upright position without hurting 0r without taking pills. Can exercises fix this problem?How many pages is the Pdf that you offer? Frances

A: Hi Frances, I am sorry to hear about your condition. It is no surprise however, as this is one of many problems which affect postoperative patients, especially from fusion procedures. I am not sure how to advise you on exercise or other therapies. The structure of your spine has been altered, so it might or might not respond well to these modalities. The PDF file is approximately 80 pages, give or take. I do think that getting off the pills was a very good decision. I wish you the best, Sensei Adam Rostocki

Q: Hi,My problem is not so much back pain as other symptoms. Earlier this year, something happened to me which caused neck problems and problems in my shoulders and upper arms - down to the elbows. I went to a MD twice. He gave me muscle relaxers but they did no good. I self medicated by using Ibuprofen, muscle rubs, pain patches, etc. For 3 months, I could hardly move my arms. It got really worse at nighttime. I could not sleep without taking PM capsules. I have gotten better but still not cured. I was unable to do any upper body exercises during that time and I have lost all muscle tone and strength in my upper body. I don't know what happened to me but the only thing that I did out of the ordinary was to buy and use a few times, one of those rotating stools called a 'Red'. You sit on the stool, hold to side handles and rotate your body. It was supposed to slim down the waistline. I don't know if I got whiplash or have a pinched muscle. The doctor did not help me at all. He did threaten to do an MRI but being under insured, I could not afford it. If you have any suggestions, I would love to hear them. Thank you. Best regards,BJ

A: Hi BJ, Unfortunately, the MRI would be a great thing to have, since it would give everyone an accurate picture of what is going on in your neck. Without the test, it is difficult to advise you. You might want to consider knowledge therapy, since it is free and very effective. No harm in trying...Let me know how you are doing in a few weeks, Sensei Adam Rostocki

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