Living with degenerative back issues

Hi catweazle, I feel for you. I have had a progressively painful back for over 30 years. It was originally from a car accident. Then the disc was prolapsed and pressing on the spinal cord. It got worse. I had spinal surgery 20 years ago, but although it did relieve some pain (a bit) it didn't make it better by any means and I have struggled ever since. Now it just gets worse as the years go by and I am in constant pain. I also have bad arthritis which means both hips are disintegrating. Painkillers don't really help, I have Volterol on prescription which maybe helps a tiny bit. In the end I think you just have to keep going because there's no alternative. I also have progressive MS. I distract myself writing and try to live one day at a time. I hope you find something that helps. If you do please share it here.

That's not helpful for you. You really need to be getting help and pain relief. Sorry you are no nearer getting that. What can you try ? Well... acupuncture can help, but you need to see someone who is properly qualified in Chinese Medicine, not just a physiotherapist who has gone on a weekend course (sorry to anyone who is upset by that comment). TENS can help with pain, but you have to use it daily and more than once a day probably. An osteopath could maybe help with pain as well. The thing is they all cost money and that in itself is a problem for many of us. I know that doing back exercises (see YouTube), sitting without your legs crossed, being careful not to do anything to pull, twist or strain the back, avoiding any standing (if indeed you stand at all) will all help. I have a memory foam mattress topper which really helps comfort in bed. You can also get back braces that may help. I hope you find relief from pain soon.