Bad back.....again!

[Rickyy]

Stu R said:

Your GP. It really depends on what the their assessment is so far and what you've been prescribed. If it's just thrown in the 'general aches and pains' category and you've been bunged some painkillers, it's probably worth getting either a second opinion or going back to your GP and explaining your concerns because it's been reoccurring for 4 years, and due to the physical nature of your work etc and that you're not getting any relief - chances are you'll get referral to a specialist anyway, but if not don't be afraid to suggest that's what you want.

I certainly wouldn't seek any treatments until the cause has been fully diagnosed, but you do need to address pain management too if you're not getting any relief from what you've been prescribed, or if OTC meds offer less relief than required. Treating the symptoms alone is a very NHS approach to back pain unfortunately.

I think I'll push for a specialist, I'm self employed too, so can't really afford to be off work!

I was given anti-inflammatories (sp?)this time. The pain did go within a few days, but I'm worried about how often it happens and the fact it is triggered by relatively light work. I'm very conscious about my lifting technique after I initially injured it.

Thank you to everyone for your advice.

[E38Ross]

if you wanted to travel to Pontypridd you could also go to the Welsh institute of chiropractic which offer cheap treatment, it's supervised by qualified chiropractors and, rest assured, they're often far more thorough than ANY physio/osteopath/chiropractor out in practice you'd pay for. the only downsides are less experience (but the clinical tutors help with that) and the new patient consultation is very, very long....usually just shy of 2 hours but it's incredibly thorough. i'm sure if you mentioned me you may also get some free treatments or a free initial consultation.

[Rickyy]

E38Ross said:

if you wanted to travel to Pontypridd you could also go to the Welsh institute of chiropractic which offer cheap treatment, it's supervised by qualified chiropractors and, rest assured, they're often far more thorough than ANY physio/osteopath/chiropractor out in practice you'd pay for. the only downsides are less experience (but the clinical tutors help with that) and the new patient consultation is very, very long....usually just shy of 2 hours but it's incredibly thorough. i'm sure if you mentioned me you may also get some free treatments or a free initial consultation.

Hi Ross, any chance of some more info on this place? I didn't get your PM as I had my profile set to an old email address.

The pain in my lower back went a few days after I started this topic, no doubt it will return. For the last Month and a bit I've been getting pain around my left shoulder blade if I've been walking or standing for too long. I've got to stop putting it off and get it seen to! Its on my to do list along with seeing the doctor about my constant clicking wrist and occasional stiffness in hands!