Approximately one year ago, I had a serious accident and fell down a metal staircase. Since then, I have yet to find an answer to my predicament. I have chronic back pain, acute stomach ache, and, as a twenty-one year old, am feeling lost and desperate. In the past year I have been to several GP’s on numerous occasions, had a camera inserted into my bladder as I was passing blood, undergone various physiotherapies, and took up yoga and swimming.

I used to be an avid runner, and partake in many marathons, but that has since gone out of the window. I have been living in Southampton as a student for the past three years, during which time I have suffered anxiety attacks and chest-pains, and consequently been on a series of tablets during my first year. Having recovered from this ailment, I had my accident at the end of my second year and have been suffering every day since then. I have lost partial feeling in my legs and arms, and securing a part time job to fund myself has been extremely difficult.

I don’t wish to blow my own trumpet by any stretch of the imagination, but before my accident I considered myself as an intelligent, humorous, attractive and fun person to be around, but in the past year I have descended into a bitter, decrepit mess. When I return to Sheffield, my home and place of birth (and yes, I am laying this on extremely thick…!), I plan to try and get my life back on track. I need help, and I thought, after a year of trying various options, that reflexology, as opposed to osetiotherapy and chiropractic treatment, would be my best bet.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I have not dispatched all that many posts in my year’s membership, but I have dropped in on my beloved forum frequently, and I turn to you now. (Yes, I am fully aware that I am a drama queen! Desperation will do that to you, I promise!)

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And so far no reply....

Thanks...

Yup, I viewed! Feel for you mate but haven't a clue how to help! Sorry. I'm sure fellow forumers will come to your aid when more are on-line later in the day.

Good Luck

Cheers Monroe - I appreciate it ;)

Just remembered, there is a 'Pain Control' clinic I think it's based at one of the hospitals so you could ask your Sheffield GP to refer you there?

Not sure about reflexology, but what about acupuncture?

Hello Pilon,

Welcome back to the forum.

I am unable to give any advice on reflexology - hopefully it will only be matter of time before some posts with information.

You've had it tough! I have been off work 3 years now with a condition which has dramatically altered my life. An ear infection robbed me of my hearing in one ear, and destroyed my balance. I have learned to walk without falling over, and overcome severe nasuea and other difficulties. Still some way to go, but keep persevering.

You strike me as someone who will also wants to overcome your own difficulties and changed circumstances. The hospital consultant I first saw said there was nothing that could be done to help me. He was wrong. Now, with intensive physiotherapy, I have improved - though I will never be cured. So hold onto your determination to keep going, keep fighting, and may your search produce the answers you seek.

I wish you every success Pilon.

Red

Sorry Pilon - I viewed and have ran a search coz there was a similar thread running a few days ago about back pain etc....but looking at it I don't think it offers you enough help as just recommending chiropractice etc

Have you tried alternative therapies like rieki or acupuncture...run a few searches and see what you can find as I must get off to bed now....

hey chin up kid and try not to get too down about it...I have back pain everyday and it's not nice and I fully understand your frustration...

:wink:

Hey up Sheish and redrobbo!

Thank you for your kind words - they are very much appreciated and help to motivate me more than you can imagine!

(I am laying it on über-thick again, but I promise you I am speaking from the heart! Eeh, I'm a sensitive soul!)

I would try a consultaion with a neurologist. If you have a trapped nerve in your spine the pain can manifest itself in different places. When I had this condition the neurologist said-
"The symptons can be bizzare"
My sympathies, pain is miserable.

Hi Pilon.

Like you I have suffered with cronic back pain for the past three years have misplaced vertibraes (excuse spelling)
went every were to try and get help in the end went to a osteopath and he worked wonderes he also suggested I bought a TENS machine that I could use at home.

I couldnt live without it now half a hour on the tens machine and free of pain I even go out with it on as no one can see it
dont know if this might help you but as they only cost about £30 it might be worth a try I bought mine from boots chemist and they were really helpfull explaing it to me
hope you are free from pain soon .

TENS Machine= www.spine-inc.com/glossary/t/tens.html

Looks good I might get one too.

It's difficult to know what to say that will help you but i'm sure no-one thinks you are a drama queen - if you were you wouldn't know it yourself! I think you should keep pestering your doctors. They could have missed something thats fixable. Being in constant nagging pain is depressing so lay it on as thick as possible, maybe you are trying to be too brave!

Definately get referred to the pain control clinic - it's based at the Northern General I think.

Not sure about reflexology, but did know of someone (friend of friend) who got relief from acupuncture (sp??). Just make sure if you do try it that it's a very reputable practise.

From personal experience i have found that of all the options and medical perspectives you have mentioned can help some or most individuals - Have u had a degree of improvement or pain alleviation at any specific point?

What works for one does not necessarily work for another otherwise we would have universal remedies.

In my formative years it was almost universally recommended that for back pain, to go swimming because that is good for the back -

I always found swimming to be ok but was always in severe pain immediately after and for days or weeks after and that flew in the face of medical thinking at the tme.

Chiropractics and accupuncturists were considered heretics and reflexology had never been heard of heard of - and of course these are expensive.

I think i have experienced all the recommended treatments at one time or another and am almost now resigned to pain management and sometimes that is something as ordinary as consuming alcohol or having a smoke of a therapeutic herb. (I do not habitually do either)

i dont know the mechanics or science of why that would work and nor do i really care because its only a variant on the prescription chemicals - a means of altering the body chemistry / mindstate and inducing pain relief - not cure but respite.

Its your body - one owner - Try anything try everything in search of cure and dont accept advice purely on the grounds that it is from a professional nor reject advice purely because it seems implausible as per Aroma therapy spiritual healing or reiki.

The latter are probably up for the same ridicule just as the chiropractors and Accupuncturists once were before they become more socially acceptable and mainstream.

u r probably in the best place for help because responses are derived from life experience and what works for the rspondnts

When you have found what works or works best for you- even if it is not action on the pain but a distraction from it then take your own advice of "what works for me."

Also do not be afraid to say what does not work for you because in the future you may be assisting others based on your life experience.

All the best.

The pain control clinic IS at the Northern General hospital, perhaps they can help you. I hope they can anyway. Dont give up, you are only young with a lot of life to enjoy in front of you. Best wishes.

I have relexology, but I don't think it can realy help with a bad back, especailly if it's a physical problem like a trapped nerve or something, reflexology is all about opening-up the energy channels and removeing toxins in your body by massaaging your feet. However, I'ts probably worth a try just for the relaxation side of it, you never know.

I think you need to see a proper chiropracter as they might be able to just twist you back into shape.

Pilon: Gosh... its awful to see someone who has been so vibrant in life so rapidy go downhill.

I completely feel for have having once been a very fit and lively individual myself.

I was diagnosed with ME in May 2001 and have really suffered with pain since, although now I have managed to pull myself through it having been on various anti-depressants of differing strengths (which I would never personally go on again!!!).
I dont go running anymore or partying till the early hours but I have had to change my lifestyle.

I saw numerous doctors/practitioners/experts to be met by diverse attitudes, some being very helpful to others making me feel like a hypocondriac and that I had mental problems which I can say are obviously not true.

The reasons I share my ilness with you is for you to see that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. No matter how low you feel and I know pain is not the biggest problem..... its the depression which comes with the pain and the inability to live your life as you once led it.

Life is a very rocky road with allsorts of obsticles which are placed in our path but we are hardy creatures and can overcome them with a little assistance. Friends and family are invaluable in helping us but you must be humble and ask for the help. People really do care.

I know Iam harping on but I do know how pain can make you feel and although its probably not been that long that you have suffered and that you are only young but believe me it does wear you down and the depression can get worse if you dont deal with it. Hopefully you wont ever experience it as you say your young and intelligent so may be able to get your head around it easier than I did.

I am not a medical practitioner but do believe in holistic therapy as I said before the mind is a wonderful tool and can, I believe, help you deal with pain.

*** Write down all the things that make you happy and are achievable. make a mental note to try and do these things regularly.

(My dog helped me .... yes I know Iam sad but he really did, if I felt down I would take him for a walk and he would have me smiling in no time jumping in rivers and acting kinda scatty!)

*** The money side of things can also prey on your mind, have you thought about seeking benefits. If you have physical disabilities then are you claiming all the monies you are due? Again this can help you.

The pain clinic which several members have mentioned I'am sure would help but considering my GP said she would refer me about 12 months ago and Iam still waiting.

*** Rethink what you want out of life.... really want.... then go for it. The saying the best things in life are free... its true they really are.

and one more thing SMILE...... frowning makes you ugly and I should know I have more wrinkles now than Ive ever had.

I hope this has helped but if you want to pm me feel free.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

:)

Have you searched on the net for relevant books in association to dealing with pain.

:|

Front page header womans weekly BEAT BACK PAIN FOREVER.
Page 22.
Gives a comprehensive guide to just about everything to do with backs including simple pilates exercises to beat back pain.

Actually my gym instructress also advised me to try pilates as i cant use some of the gym equipment because of my hip dysplacia and lower back pain from it.

But this magazine article looks really good.
it goes into everything.

I have a friend who tried acupuncture after a neck injury, it really helped and has now been proven to help by scientists, its no longer mumbo jumbo.

Hallamshire hospital have at least one hypnotherapist who can teach self hypnosise for pain relief.

My dad had a visit from her after major plastic surgery and hasnt had pain since using the technique.

Dr Shrecker at the Newfield Green Surgery has an acupuncture clinic, on the NHS.

Just want to say a big 'thank you' to all that posted in this thread and for all the PM's you've sent me over the past few days with your sound advice and similar tales of woe.

I feel very humbled by so many of you; I've realised there are so many people out there suffering far more than I, and your bravery and determination astounds me.

I will take your words of wisdom and use them as best as I can.

Ah Good Luck Pilon....:D

I was referred to 'The Back School' at Manor Clinic which was slightly tedious but helps with your mental health in relation to your problem as well as coping and muscle strengthening for the problem area. Run by back experts.
I can also agree that TENS is worth a shot, plus aromatherapy could help with your stomach. Might sound a bit hippy but what have you got to lose?
There's also several drugs which while being treated can relax the back, and newly developed 'incorrect' muscles, enough to benefit form treatment in the long term. A side effect is that they are also antidepressants which means they can become addictive but they really help. Your GP can recommend.
I had an accident in my mid teens and the damage was permanent, you'll get to a stage where it ceases to matter so much.

I have a prolasped disc in my lower back and was treated 4 years ago the surgeon said i would have it the rest of my life and there would not be any operation that will cure it, I was put on a physio course for three months and this helped tremendously. I still do the sit ups and leg raiser's today and I my life is on track.
Dont give up hope theres always a solution.

I'm pretty youngish (20's) and over the last two years have suffered from on/off back and hip pain. doctors seem to think that you are making it up which I find really annoying and frustrating. I've tried not to take any pain killers as I did not want to mask the pain...I felt that if something is wrong it is better to find the cause then cover up the pain.

My problem is slowly getting better through no help of any doctor/ physio, whatever I did appears to be healing itself slowly. I know how dreadful it is to feel so helpless and trapped, all I can say is try whatever you think will help and be more pushy then I was. Keep yourself going out with mates/ and work even if it hurts and does not seem to be that enjoyable, you will laugh and it helps with the pain.

Without my boyf being really understanding and helping me out when I found it hard to walk I don't know how I would of got along.

I hope you get sorted soon.

i have been on holiday and have just read your post.

There are Pain ' Management 'Clinics at the Northern General and the Hallamshire Hospital, you do need a referral from your G.P

i was one of the first patients when the one in the Hallamshire opened,and what a priviledge to attend this marvellous clinic Accupunture, AquaTherapy, Physiotherapy, Psychiatric, Psychological Support.

i have Spinal Injuries, Arthritis, and have suffered Chronic Pain every day for the last 19yrs,you dont get a day off not even a Bank Holiday Ha!Ha!

I strongly suggest you ask your GP for a referral to a Clinic,the catchment area you live in will dictate to a certain extent which one you attend.
You will probably have to wait for an appointment but you can have Physiotherapy while you wait

you get educated about you body,mind,pain etc. Your life does change and how you embrace the change is up
to you.
you learn about Pacing, Resting,having limitations but this doesnt need to be negative, it depends on YOUR outlook
i used to get angry and frustrated ...I cant do this, i cant do that....now i look at what i can do

please feel free to get in touch with me if you need a bit of support and understanding

take care of yourself ...this is your pain nobody else knows how it affects you,you can learn how to manage to live your life with it

Love and Blessings

Hi Pilon - just passing on a recommendation from a friend (who can't access the forum at the moment but who saw your thread last week) :


Can you tell him/her to try AMATSU (www.amatsu.co.uk) and to pm me if he wants tel no/ mobile of Amatsu practitioner in Sheffield. £30 per session, well worth it.

If you want to know more then PM Daisy. For what it's worth she has been saying how much the sessions have helped her :)

Get some heavy duty co-codamol - that ought to do it.

Originally posted by peter_19_73
I have a friend who tried acupuncture after a neck injury, it really helped and has now been proven to help by scientists, its no longer mumbo jumbo.

Hallamshire hospital have at least one hypnotherapist who can teach self hypnosise for pain relief.

My dad had a visit from her after major plastic surgery and hasnt had pain since using the technique.

Dr Shrecker at the Newfield Green Surgery has an acupuncture clinic, on the NHS.

Peter, could you pm me the details of this hypnotherapist please? I get terrible pain and have been ill AGAIN today! I could really do with a way to get over it and have thought about hypnosis but didn't realise you can get it at the hospital, is it on the NHS?

Thanks,
Lottie

Hi Pilon
I have just joined the forum and the first message I read was about your pain.
By this time I hope you have found some ease from some sorce.
I have had back pain for thirty years,oseopathy,pain killers,massage, reflexolgy,accupressure, epidural injections and now accupuncture.
I have two bulging discs along with other back pain issues and arthritis all thro.Operation is no option,the discs are too close to nerves.
I was a very good swimmer,swimming every day,I ran for my school and have been active ever since ,til I reached the age of 30.Then back pain.
After years of drugs for these problems,causing other problems,I was in a viscious circle of drugs, pains, hospitals, all to no avail.
I was then refered to the NORTHERN GENERAL HOSPITAL,to a consultant of cronic back pain.
Along with treatment I attend classes of manageing your back pain.
All was very helpful . Here we learned about the tens machine and how to use it and on loan.
We learned all about the medications we were on and how it affects you,relaxation classes and how to control that pain.
When to rest when to excersize with the excersises shown.
It was good to mix with people with the same problems,to share ideas.
I now have rusulted to accupunture,after one day of not being able to move at all for pain dissabling me,it worked immediately,but very expensive.
So I wish you well and hope this message has helped and hope by now you will have found how to manage your pain.

Get some heavy duty co-codamol - that ought to do it.

Please don't, it isn't really suitable for chronic pain as it causes constipation. It's good for one off and occasional acute pain.

As everyone else says, ask for a referral to the pain clinic. GP's are a nightmare they don't like giving referrals unless you ask for them (and many people don't even know they need them). They should be able to sort you out :thumbsup:

Hi Pilon.
Can't really add much to what everybody else has posted re solutions, but thought I'd post anyway to offer sympathies and urge you not to give up, which fortuntely you don't seem anywhere near doing.

Agree with others that Acupuncture could bring some relief , though not a cure.

Understand the depression.My mother suffered a blood clot in her spine which initially left her paralyzed from the neck down and doctors said she'd never stand again, let alone walk. Not surprisingly she was very depressed at first but being a positive person she battled on and with various physiotherapy and rehabilitation over a period of a year she can now actually walk with the aid of a walking- frame for short distances. And all this at 86 yrs age!

So no one can pretend it will be easy, but "keep on truckin", so to speak.

Hi Pilon,

I suffered from constant and acute nerve pain in my back and legs for about two years until a friend of mine recommended acupuncture. He recommended The College Of Oriental Medicine at 59 Whitham Road in Broomhill. I had treatment for about three months and the pain gradually subsided and over the following months disappeared completely. I have had only two relapses in the five years since (both as a result of playing squash) and both cleared up within about a week.

Would highly recommend this clinic. Their number is 267 1171.

Hi Pilon.

Like you I have suffered with cronic back pain for the past three years have misplaced vertibraes (excuse spelling)
went every were to try and get help in the end went to a osteopath and he worked wonderes he also suggested I bought a TENS machine that I could use at home.

I couldnt live without it now half a hour on the tens machine and free of pain I even go out with it on as no one can see it
dont know if this might help you but as they only cost about £30 it might be worth a try I bought mine from boots chemist and they were really helpfull explaing it to me
hope you are free from pain soon .

I have a disc prob in my back and my TENS machine is invaluable. Mine is also a Boots model and gives lots of options for different frequencies etc. I have also had acupuncture and found that very helpful. I also suffer from fibromyalgia, so I have lots of pain. The TENS is great because it is relaxing as well.

I have had Reflexology in the past and found it very good for stress and through this, it helped a long standing problem with asthma. This was before my back injury though, so I dont know how it would help with that.

I think you can see a physio and get them to help you to position the TENS machine to your best advantage if you wanted expert help. But the booklet in the boots machine gives you lots of options.

If I was going to choose an alternative therapy for back problems I would choose acupuncture and/or TENS.

Hi Pilon,
I see that this was an old thread.
How about an update?