Acute lower back pain

[tigerlelly]

I have suffered from severe lower back pain on and off (mostly off, thank goodness) for about 7 years. This episode which began on Wednesday morning is the worst ever and I am popping pills and prescription anti-inflammatories like sweeties. Today it is worse and I can hardly walk. I receive conflicting advice from the medical professionals; some say lie flat others keep moving, some say sit with knees higher than your hips and others lower than your hips, sleep on your back/side/ with/without a rolled towel under my knees. can any other sufferers share some self-help tips. Are there any easy exercises to help relieve it. I usually lie on the floor or a frim bed and bring my knees up to my chin but I can't even do that at the moment.
Many thanks.

[jackthehat]

Have the cause never been diagnosed ?

[Sqad]

Get into the position that is most comfortable....as JTH has said......have you been investigated.........MRI scan ect?

[tigerlelly]

Muscle spasms protecting the back or so they say. It usually goes after a few days but this time is getting worse.

[jno]

in the longer term, have you tried an osteopath or chiropractor? Back pain is pretty much their speciality.

[tigerlelly]

Forgot to say I have had two different types of cancer both of which meant I had to be cut right down the middle so I do not have the strong muscles to keep my back supported.

[tigerlelly]

Yes, jno but am unable to get to either one at the moment.

[icemaiden]

Hi tigertelly.
I get these awful muscle spasms as well. They were getting to the point were like you it was effecting my everyday life and not to mention, very painful. (I had a two level spinal fusion three years ago so all do do with that)

Last October I went back to my GP who has prescribed me Amitriptyline, normally prescribed for depression. I was a bit dubious about taking them but I have to say it has helped enormously. I take one, or if it's bad two,every night. 10mg tablets.
It helps the muscles to relax and not get so tight and painful.

But as Sqad and jackthehat have said, really need to know why it's happening.

[Sqad]

I think that you have mentioned that you have had treatment for some cancer disorder.......could you elucidate?

If I am wrong forget my post.