Bad day

DebbieL

I have osteoarthritis in my lower back L5S1 . I had never suffered back pain for more than a couple of days. In 2017 I got shingles on my lower back. I recovered and started with lower back pain in Jan 2018 - I was 52. It continued to get worse. After having back pain for over a year and many trips to the doctors I was finally referred for MRI scan and was devastated to learn I had Osteoarthritis. The only suggestion the doctor made was “some physio” . Which hadn’t made a difference so far. After complaining I was referred to a back physio specialist who “gave me some life back” Most days I can manage without painkillers, although I need them every night. Today I have had painkillers through the day and heat pads and slept a bit. Hopefully tomorrow will be back to normal. Which is pain when I get up but usually not too bad when I’ve got going.

[Deleted User]

Hi @DebbieL, welcome to the Online Community! It's lovely to have you here with us.

It's great to hear that working with your specialist physio made such a positive difference to your lower back pain. I'm sorry that you're having a bad day with it - I notice you originally posted this last night, how are you feeling today?

Here are some links you might find useful:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-spine/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

Please do continue to engage in the Online Community and keep us all updated, it's good to talk.

Best wishes, Sarah (moderator)

DebbieL

A new day and a better day. Been walking along the beaches in Scotland. Had some hip and back pain afterwards but only for a while. So good to be out in the fresh air. Still need co-codamol and nortriptyline to sleep but a much better day 😊