[wisewoman]

I have times when I have more pain then others, times when I need good drugs and times when I don't. But it seems I am having more and more regular pain. For example I was folding laundry tonight. Not a strenuous job. My back ached and I was getting annoyed. Well, company came and I rested for a while and was better. I just spent 10 minutes straightening up my room before I climbed into bed and it's off like a race horse again!

Doc told me due to degenerative disks to lift no more the 25 pounds. Yeah, that's easy. I try to do good things for my back. I am upset about pain no matter what. I have no narcotics in the house now as both docs I know were out most of the week. I have my son bringing home baby aspirin for the dog and I will take a bunch of those. Advil I know kills my tummy and tylenol works like water.

Rambling, what on earth is a poor girl to do? I am getting tired of PAIN!

[SleepsWithButterFlies]

I am sorry wisewoman ....do you eat with the advil ? that may help the tunmmy stuff same with Aleve

[wi_fighter]

I agree with Sleeps. If ibuprofen works, try taking a single tablet (so hopefully your stomach won't get as ripped up like with a full dose) with an antacid at the same time and see if it helps.

Has your doc sent you to physical therapy to learn body mechanics that put less strain on your back? That might help too.

[wisewoman]

Yes to P.T. I buprofen is okay for 2-3 days then whamo I have tummy trouble. I had my first ulcer at 17 and I am a few years older now, (HMMM) I have been so stressed that my muscles are contracting and in spasm and I can't even breath normal. I hate all of this. Thanks wi

[jennie]

I get muscles spasms all the time. They used to require chiropractor manipulation and stimulation (from the these electrode thingies) and medications. Now, I don't use any meds for the pain because I've learned how to prevent further injury.

Things I do:
* Stretch (when waking & going to sleep)
* Hot baths (when back becomes stiff)
* Proper posture (lifting, moving, and sitting techniques)
* Resting (recognize and respect when I'm unable to complete a task)
* Breathing exercises (when pain starts and while moving)
* Bracing self when needed
* Massage chair
* Keep stress under control

I think the most important thing is preventing further strain, pain, and injury. Once the pain subsides and you keep doing the suggestions above, you'll not need as much (or not at all) medications to manage your pain.