I haven't updated in awhile, mostly because I've been rather busy. I've also been relatively pain-free for most of the time.
The worst came last Wednesday, when we learned a move in t'ai chi called "Finding a snake in the grass." It is a variation of the crouch step, only...lower. Pretty much as low as you can get. You stick one leg straight out, bend the other one down, and then slowly shift your weight to your other leg, then stand up. Whether or not you get the idea from this description, the point is, my thigh muscles were screaming at me. It was a good workout, but...wow. They hurt for two days.
My main problem has been whatever decided to settle in my lungs. I've been coughing, with vigor, for a good two weeks now. I have an appointment today to address that, along with another issue, which may or may not be mentioned here.
I'm down to one or two sra sessions left. I'm also down to the last two weeks of college. Lots of change ahead for me.
Today was a very exhausting day, as well. When I walked in, the first thing I saw were sparring gloves and mitts. We spent the first 15 minutes punching each other's hands. It was pretty fun, I'll admit. Still exhausting. After that, we proceeded to work on certain steps in the form. One of them being the aformentioned thigh-killer. We did this...too many times. I didn't kill my legs as bad this time, though, since I didn't go all the way down. Don't get me wrong, though, my legs still hurt.
At least the worst thing that I have to do today is walk around. I've worked out enough today already.
2008-12-01
2008-11-12
More In-depth Description-Dr. Frank Jarrell
This is a comment that I received a few days ago from the Director of SRA-Dr. Frank Jarrell. While it is a bit technical, it is an extremely good description of SRA, and I feel that it needs to be posted on the main site.
Hello Amy,
My name is Dr. Frank Jarrell. A colleague of mine in Atlanta, GA forwarded your blog reference to SRA and indicated that you were new to SRA and that I may want to assist in explaining the process to you.
First, I want to compliment you on a tremendous looking website/blog. It is very professional in design.
SRA Attachment Point Therapy (APT) is one of several procedures available to various professions to reduce the Axial Spinal Reflex (a cord mediated withdraw reflex) and its' adverse effects on nerve, muscle and joint.
When your therapist is applying mild pressure to the tendon attachment points in a given reflex pattern, he or she is stimulating receptors in the muscle, tendons and deeper tissues in a controlled fashion to produce a specific physiological response in the muscles, joints, and nerves.
One receptor stimulated in this procedure, that for low grade pain, conveys information through the spinal cord and on to the pain analgesic centers of the brain.
More specifically, the paraaquaduct grey portion of the Thalamus, a part of the brain stem. This area will release neurotransmitters and analgesics that are transported back to the spinal cord and cause the "fading pain" effect of this technique. As the point is held longer the chemical build-up will cause a drop in tone or tightness in multiple muscles associated with the reflex ("lengthening response").
Although it is a procedure that triggers nerve stimulation and nerve induced nerotransmitter release, the actual pressure is not on the nerves per say, it is on the muscle and tendon end points.
The level of pain should be well below the "splinting" or tension reaction stage and should be relatively comfortable. Pain that causes splinting (as in deep tissue work or injury) releases a different set of neurochemicals that trigger adrenaline and other fight or flight responses.
All points worked are specific to the assessment she performed in the beginning of the session. Not following the charts would be completely ineffective.
The web site is devoted mostly to professional continuing education and therefore does not have a great amount of information available to the general public. We will provide more access in the near future as people indicate the need.
Mild soreness after the first or second session is not uncommon and is noted more in those with lower than average core body temperatures. Please inform your therapist if this persists. She will need to apply a lighter pressure during your sessions.
I hope this information helps in your understanding of this exciting and new approach to pain and dysfunction.
Please feel free to discuss this more with your therapist or contact us at info@spinalreflex.com.
My staff and myself will assist you as best we can.
Sincerely,
Dr. Frank Jarrell
Director of Spinal Reflex Institute, Intl.
Hello Amy,
My name is Dr. Frank Jarrell. A colleague of mine in Atlanta, GA forwarded your blog reference to SRA and indicated that you were new to SRA and that I may want to assist in explaining the process to you.
First, I want to compliment you on a tremendous looking website/blog. It is very professional in design.
SRA Attachment Point Therapy (APT) is one of several procedures available to various professions to reduce the Axial Spinal Reflex (a cord mediated withdraw reflex) and its' adverse effects on nerve, muscle and joint.
When your therapist is applying mild pressure to the tendon attachment points in a given reflex pattern, he or she is stimulating receptors in the muscle, tendons and deeper tissues in a controlled fashion to produce a specific physiological response in the muscles, joints, and nerves.
One receptor stimulated in this procedure, that for low grade pain, conveys information through the spinal cord and on to the pain analgesic centers of the brain.
More specifically, the paraaquaduct grey portion of the Thalamus, a part of the brain stem. This area will release neurotransmitters and analgesics that are transported back to the spinal cord and cause the "fading pain" effect of this technique. As the point is held longer the chemical build-up will cause a drop in tone or tightness in multiple muscles associated with the reflex ("lengthening response").
Although it is a procedure that triggers nerve stimulation and nerve induced nerotransmitter release, the actual pressure is not on the nerves per say, it is on the muscle and tendon end points.
The level of pain should be well below the "splinting" or tension reaction stage and should be relatively comfortable. Pain that causes splinting (as in deep tissue work or injury) releases a different set of neurochemicals that trigger adrenaline and other fight or flight responses.
All points worked are specific to the assessment she performed in the beginning of the session. Not following the charts would be completely ineffective.
The web site is devoted mostly to professional continuing education and therefore does not have a great amount of information available to the general public. We will provide more access in the near future as people indicate the need.
Mild soreness after the first or second session is not uncommon and is noted more in those with lower than average core body temperatures. Please inform your therapist if this persists. She will need to apply a lighter pressure during your sessions.
I hope this information helps in your understanding of this exciting and new approach to pain and dysfunction.
Please feel free to discuss this more with your therapist or contact us at info@spinalreflex.com.
My staff and myself will assist you as best we can.
Sincerely,
Dr. Frank Jarrell
Director of Spinal Reflex Institute, Intl.
The Return
I've been doing so well lately with pain. Tonight changed that.
I have a massive cramp in my lower right side of my back, which kind is creeping up the rest of my back. It's almost to spasm level. I have no idea what is causing it. Hopefully, it is just an isolated incident. The next few days will answer that question.
I have antibiotics for my budding sinus infection, and I bought a multivitamin. This is now what I'm taking daily:
Multivitamin
Iron Supplement
Zithromax (allergy meds)
Tri-Sprintec
Plus Z-pack (antibiotics)
As needed:
Hydrocodone
Cyclobenazpiene
Albuterol (inhaler for asthma)
Goodness.
Anyway, I took my hydrocodone, which is sort of working. I hope it does. This is the last thing that I need right now.
I have a massive cramp in my lower right side of my back, which kind is creeping up the rest of my back. It's almost to spasm level. I have no idea what is causing it. Hopefully, it is just an isolated incident. The next few days will answer that question.
I have antibiotics for my budding sinus infection, and I bought a multivitamin. This is now what I'm taking daily:
Multivitamin
Iron Supplement
Zithromax (allergy meds)
Tri-Sprintec
Plus Z-pack (antibiotics)
As needed:
Hydrocodone
Cyclobenazpiene
Albuterol (inhaler for asthma)
Goodness.
Anyway, I took my hydrocodone, which is sort of working. I hope it does. This is the last thing that I need right now.
Yesterday, I had some pain, but not enough to really bother me. It was mostly evident when I moved in the wrong way; I felt little twinges of pain.
I'm getting sick again. I've been coughing (with substance) since last night, and I'm getting congested as well. It's probably going to lead to another sinus infection. Joy. I'm sure that all of this isn't helping my back, either.
I feel okay pain-wise so far today, but whatever bug I caught this time is running me down. I didn't go to t'ai chi, mostly because I don't think I could make it through an hour of working out feeling the way that I do.
Something I wanted to mention: there was a comment left on my blog explaining SRA in a lot more detail. I will post this in the main posts soon, but I want to do a little research, first. I hope to have that up in the next couple days or so.
I'm getting sick again. I've been coughing (with substance) since last night, and I'm getting congested as well. It's probably going to lead to another sinus infection. Joy. I'm sure that all of this isn't helping my back, either.
I feel okay pain-wise so far today, but whatever bug I caught this time is running me down. I didn't go to t'ai chi, mostly because I don't think I could make it through an hour of working out feeling the way that I do.
Something I wanted to mention: there was a comment left on my blog explaining SRA in a lot more detail. I will post this in the main posts soon, but I want to do a little research, first. I hope to have that up in the next couple days or so.
2008-11-10
The Third Day
Third day of my SRA thing today.
I went in feeling pretty stiff and sore. T'ai chi, and the walk to and from, really wore me out. That, combined with changing weather and stress, are a triple threat that takes a lot of willpower to deal with.
I had given the therapist the link to this site, and she checked it in the meantime. Not only did my x-ray help her out immensely, she was both impressed and excited that I've been documenting my story. Hearing that makes me very happy. If this treatment works, she believes that my story will help other people dealing with the same issues as I am. I am more than happy to contribute to furthering knowledge on this new type of treatment and the uses it has.
The pain didn't really come back until about half an hour after I left. Even then, it was fatigue pain for the most part, until about an hour ago. That, though, has a separate cause, since my back hurts when I get stressed, and I was under a great deal of that tonight. Hopefully, a good night's sleep will help that, as will turning in the project that caused the night's stress levels to peak.
Hopefully, I won't hurt much tomorrow. Publication design critique will be pretty much painful even without back pain.
I went in feeling pretty stiff and sore. T'ai chi, and the walk to and from, really wore me out. That, combined with changing weather and stress, are a triple threat that takes a lot of willpower to deal with.
I had given the therapist the link to this site, and she checked it in the meantime. Not only did my x-ray help her out immensely, she was both impressed and excited that I've been documenting my story. Hearing that makes me very happy. If this treatment works, she believes that my story will help other people dealing with the same issues as I am. I am more than happy to contribute to furthering knowledge on this new type of treatment and the uses it has.
The pain didn't really come back until about half an hour after I left. Even then, it was fatigue pain for the most part, until about an hour ago. That, though, has a separate cause, since my back hurts when I get stressed, and I was under a great deal of that tonight. Hopefully, a good night's sleep will help that, as will turning in the project that caused the night's stress levels to peak.
Hopefully, I won't hurt much tomorrow. Publication design critique will be pretty much painful even without back pain.
Different Types of Pain
I feel that it's time to clarify the 3 types of pain that I experience. This will help me be more specific in my descriptions, as well as better document what I'm dealing with.
Fatigue Pain - This type of pain is the soreness after a physical activity, such as running or, say, t'ai chi. This type of pain occurs when your muscles are tired. This type of pain isn't entirely unpleasant, because it's usually accompanied by a relaxation of said muscles.
Nerve Pain - If you've never had this, I envy you. This type of pain is sharp, stabbing, and persistent. This is the type of pain that I had when I had my herniated disk.
Cramp Pain - Everyone's had it at some point in their life. It can be a dull ache to full blown waves of pain. This, by far, is the most common pain I experience. This is the pain that debilitates you. It also persists no matter what you do. This muscle cramping is what leads to the spasms that I've had so many times in the past. This is what I will keep stressing: This is the pain that rules my life. This is the pain that debilitates me. This is the pain I live with every day.
Fatigue Pain - This type of pain is the soreness after a physical activity, such as running or, say, t'ai chi. This type of pain occurs when your muscles are tired. This type of pain isn't entirely unpleasant, because it's usually accompanied by a relaxation of said muscles.
Nerve Pain - If you've never had this, I envy you. This type of pain is sharp, stabbing, and persistent. This is the type of pain that I had when I had my herniated disk.
Cramp Pain - Everyone's had it at some point in their life. It can be a dull ache to full blown waves of pain. This, by far, is the most common pain I experience. This is the pain that debilitates you. It also persists no matter what you do. This muscle cramping is what leads to the spasms that I've had so many times in the past. This is what I will keep stressing: This is the pain that rules my life. This is the pain that debilitates me. This is the pain I live with every day.
2008-11-08
Giving in
Most of the day yesterday and today, I've been really sore.
I think it's partially due to the fact that the weather changed so drastically. This has affected me before in a negative way, so it's a very good possibility.
I finally gave in and took some hydrocodone. I was so stiff and sore that I could hardly move. The high has hit me, so I may take it easy for awhile. If the pain goes away, I might try some t'ai chi to relax me a little. Or do some stretching, if I feel up to it.
I don't feel so bad that I broke my two week streak of no painkillers. I needed them, and that's what they're for. I have proved that I have the willpower to not take them all the time, so that's what matters, right?
I was going to go out tonight, but I'm too tired and sore to make it until 2. Another moment in the countless times that I've been restricted by my pain. Let's hope that these times continue to become less frequent.
I work tomorrow. Hopefully, I will do okay.
I think it's partially due to the fact that the weather changed so drastically. This has affected me before in a negative way, so it's a very good possibility.
I finally gave in and took some hydrocodone. I was so stiff and sore that I could hardly move. The high has hit me, so I may take it easy for awhile. If the pain goes away, I might try some t'ai chi to relax me a little. Or do some stretching, if I feel up to it.
I don't feel so bad that I broke my two week streak of no painkillers. I needed them, and that's what they're for. I have proved that I have the willpower to not take them all the time, so that's what matters, right?
I was going to go out tonight, but I'm too tired and sore to make it until 2. Another moment in the countless times that I've been restricted by my pain. Let's hope that these times continue to become less frequent.
I work tomorrow. Hopefully, I will do okay.
2008-11-07
I've been pretty sore for the last couple of days. It almost overwhelmed me at work today, but I managed to make it through. I work tomorrow, too, but only for 3 hours or so, and then nothing after that. I'm looking forward to sleeping in a little and also resting my body most of the day. (My mind, however, will have to be put to good use)
Hopefully soreness does not interfere with my plans tonight.
Hopefully soreness does not interfere with my plans tonight.
2008-11-05
I'm happy to report that there was none of the surface skin pain that I had the first time that I had the SRA treatment. I didn't really hurt much at all yesterday, but I did spend a good deal of my time sitting down. Today will be more of a test.
I decided to park in a lot south of campus and walk to all of my classes today, as opposed to driving to my first class and then parking. This is signifigant, because not only do I have to carry my work-out clothes with me all day, it is a long way to walk. Since I'm such a visual person, I took a map of campus and drew out everywhere I have to walk today:
Sorry about the crappyness, I didn't put much effort into it)
T'ai chi was a lot easier today, mainly because we didn't do those kicks that we did on Monday. We went over the forms we've learned so far, added one more, then he taught us meditation techniques. That was pretty cool, actually. I knew how to do what he was teaching, but I still enjoyed it.
Currently, I'm exhausted, but I'm not in a significant amount of pain. The pain that I have is the "after exercise" type, not the muscle cramp type. This is good.
I have a class, my internship, and then I work at Piazza at 5. The test of how the treatment is working will come then. Let's hope that I can continue the streak of not taking painkillers.
I decided to park in a lot south of campus and walk to all of my classes today, as opposed to driving to my first class and then parking. This is signifigant, because not only do I have to carry my work-out clothes with me all day, it is a long way to walk. Since I'm such a visual person, I took a map of campus and drew out everywhere I have to walk today:
Sorry about the crappyness, I didn't put much effort into it)
T'ai chi was a lot easier today, mainly because we didn't do those kicks that we did on Monday. We went over the forms we've learned so far, added one more, then he taught us meditation techniques. That was pretty cool, actually. I knew how to do what he was teaching, but I still enjoyed it.
Currently, I'm exhausted, but I'm not in a significant amount of pain. The pain that I have is the "after exercise" type, not the muscle cramp type. This is good.
I have a class, my internship, and then I work at Piazza at 5. The test of how the treatment is working will come then. Let's hope that I can continue the streak of not taking painkillers.
2008-11-03
Second Day
I just recently got back from my SRA session.
The second one went about the same as the first one. I felt more relaxed after the treatment, certainly. It's too early to say whether or not I'll have the same pains as last time.
Right now, I'm sore, but I think that's more a factor of t'ai chi plus the appointment today. It's not the muscle cramp pain that I generally have. It's actually more like the pain you'd feel after a workout. Certainly not bad enough to cause too many problems.
I'm going to try to update this more. Especially if there are changes. I should probably try to document what hurts when and where and at what level of pain on a daily basis. In an ideal world, I suppose, but we'll see how that works out with the mountain of stuff I already do.
Update for sure, later.
The second one went about the same as the first one. I felt more relaxed after the treatment, certainly. It's too early to say whether or not I'll have the same pains as last time.
Right now, I'm sore, but I think that's more a factor of t'ai chi plus the appointment today. It's not the muscle cramp pain that I generally have. It's actually more like the pain you'd feel after a workout. Certainly not bad enough to cause too many problems.
I'm going to try to update this more. Especially if there are changes. I should probably try to document what hurts when and where and at what level of pain on a daily basis. In an ideal world, I suppose, but we'll see how that works out with the mountain of stuff I already do.
Update for sure, later.
Spinal Reflex Analysis (SRA)
Spinal reflex analysis, or SRA, is the technique that the therapist is performing. This is the description from spinalreflexanalysis.com:
"Where all other therapies currently focus on simple reflex reactions, Spinal Reflex Analysis (SRA) focuses on the ASR, the root cause of these reactions. SRA is a fast and extremely accurate system of identifying the involved axial spinal reflex and 'turning them off' through specific SRA based treatment programs."
Basically, she's working directly with the nerves to "turn them off". What this means is, my muscles won't hurt nearly as much. I also think that it will prevent them from getting to the pain stage so easily.
I have only had one treatment, which was last Friday. I didn't say too much about it then, mainly because I wanted to have the information in once place. I did find the one site dedicated to SRA, but i didn't find a whole lot of information besides that. This is a new treatment, so I'm really not that surprised. I will post the link in the sidebar and try to describe it as best I can.
She places her finger on a specific nerve, in a specific pattern. To begin with, the pain level is about a 4 or so...just under flinching away stage. She keeps her finger on that place, and asks me to move my eyes in a certain pattern. The way she explained it to me, moving the eyes stimulates the nerves in your brain, and the pain gradually fades to nothing. She continues this through a certain pattern for about an hour. I looked for a graphic of this on the internet, but I didn't find one in the couple minutes that I looked. I will try to get the copy of the one she gave me on here eventually.
When I went in last week, I was really sore and really tense. When I left, I was pretty relaxed. That night, and the next day, my muscles felt okay, but my skin was really tender. I think it might have something to do with the release of lactic acid and other chemicals from my achy muscles. My eyes also hurt a little, I'm assuming since I moved them around so much. We will see if this happens again, and if that reaction is normal.
I have not taken my painkillers for a couple weeks now. Not that I haven't been in enough pain to take them: I have. But I think that my t'ai chi, combined with the SRA is helping me to remain relaxed enough to keep the pain at a bearable level. I hope this will improve over time.
My second SRA appointment is today. I'll post sometime after that.
"Where all other therapies currently focus on simple reflex reactions, Spinal Reflex Analysis (SRA) focuses on the ASR, the root cause of these reactions. SRA is a fast and extremely accurate system of identifying the involved axial spinal reflex and 'turning them off' through specific SRA based treatment programs."
Basically, she's working directly with the nerves to "turn them off". What this means is, my muscles won't hurt nearly as much. I also think that it will prevent them from getting to the pain stage so easily.
I have only had one treatment, which was last Friday. I didn't say too much about it then, mainly because I wanted to have the information in once place. I did find the one site dedicated to SRA, but i didn't find a whole lot of information besides that. This is a new treatment, so I'm really not that surprised. I will post the link in the sidebar and try to describe it as best I can.
She places her finger on a specific nerve, in a specific pattern. To begin with, the pain level is about a 4 or so...just under flinching away stage. She keeps her finger on that place, and asks me to move my eyes in a certain pattern. The way she explained it to me, moving the eyes stimulates the nerves in your brain, and the pain gradually fades to nothing. She continues this through a certain pattern for about an hour. I looked for a graphic of this on the internet, but I didn't find one in the couple minutes that I looked. I will try to get the copy of the one she gave me on here eventually.
When I went in last week, I was really sore and really tense. When I left, I was pretty relaxed. That night, and the next day, my muscles felt okay, but my skin was really tender. I think it might have something to do with the release of lactic acid and other chemicals from my achy muscles. My eyes also hurt a little, I'm assuming since I moved them around so much. We will see if this happens again, and if that reaction is normal.
I have not taken my painkillers for a couple weeks now. Not that I haven't been in enough pain to take them: I have. But I think that my t'ai chi, combined with the SRA is helping me to remain relaxed enough to keep the pain at a bearable level. I hope this will improve over time.
My second SRA appointment is today. I'll post sometime after that.
2008-10-24
Memory Problems, Too?
I was going to post an entry with links and all kinds of information about my therapy that I had today. I was sort of constructing the phrases in my mind while I was on my drive back to campus, complete with any diagrams I found and information available. One problem, though:
I forgot what my therapy is called, and I left the sheet in the car.
So, pretty pictures later. I'll wait to explain it until I have some diagrams or...something.
I forgot what my therapy is called, and I left the sheet in the car.
So, pretty pictures later. I'll wait to explain it until I have some diagrams or...something.
I forgot to post about this earlier.
Wednesday, I made the decision that I would try my hardest not to take hydrocodone. This was going to be a tall order, since I was scheduled to work twice at one job and once at another, plus 2 classes. But hey, if i can make it through a day like that, then I can make it through pretty much any day.
I only worked an hour in the morning, so while I was sore, I didn't stand up long enough to really let it get bad. It was the walk to T'ai Chi that felt really...interesting. Mind you, it was raining pretty hard, so not only was I sore, but cold and wet as well. Once I got there and changed, though, it was a lot better.
My poor leg muscles got their first real workout in a very long time. However, the results were not what you might think. Yes, I was very tired, but afterwards, I felt more relaxed than I have in a long time. And I had no pain for a few hours. It was amazing.
I didn't begin hurting again until my second shift at Piazza. I knew this one would hurt. I didn't start hurting until about an hour in, and it hit me pretty hard. I remedied this situation by reflecting back to how I was standing during t'ai chi, and it really helped. And I managed to meet my goal; I did not take painkillers that day.
In fact, I haven't taken any since Monday.
I will most likely need them Sunday, but I want to see how I do. Wish me luck, this is a very difficult thing to do.
Wednesday, I made the decision that I would try my hardest not to take hydrocodone. This was going to be a tall order, since I was scheduled to work twice at one job and once at another, plus 2 classes. But hey, if i can make it through a day like that, then I can make it through pretty much any day.
I only worked an hour in the morning, so while I was sore, I didn't stand up long enough to really let it get bad. It was the walk to T'ai Chi that felt really...interesting. Mind you, it was raining pretty hard, so not only was I sore, but cold and wet as well. Once I got there and changed, though, it was a lot better.
My poor leg muscles got their first real workout in a very long time. However, the results were not what you might think. Yes, I was very tired, but afterwards, I felt more relaxed than I have in a long time. And I had no pain for a few hours. It was amazing.
I didn't begin hurting again until my second shift at Piazza. I knew this one would hurt. I didn't start hurting until about an hour in, and it hit me pretty hard. I remedied this situation by reflecting back to how I was standing during t'ai chi, and it really helped. And I managed to meet my goal; I did not take painkillers that day.
In fact, I haven't taken any since Monday.
I will most likely need them Sunday, but I want to see how I do. Wish me luck, this is a very difficult thing to do.
2008-10-20
A New Step
Yay for being at work and doing something else.
First of all, an update on my various illnesses. I think the tonsillitis has been beaten, but I managed to get a sinus infection because of my allergies shortly after that went away. So, I'm on my 4th round of antibiotics, along with various allergy meds and some nasal spray. I'm also taking iron suppliments for the anemia. While I'm still very tired, I do feel a lot better than I did last week.
I started my t'ai chi class today. This martial art, I think, will be very beneficial to me, because it teaches balance and stregthens your core body. I only did the steps for about 20 minutes today, but I'm already exhausted from it. I think it will really help, and I'm looking forward to actually getting into it.
I continue to have back, knee, and foot problems, though they've seemed to reach a plataeu on how bad they've gotten. I'm happy to say that my feet haven't caused me immense amounts of pain lately, but I can feel the cramps sometimes. I do not have arthritis, which I figured, so it's most likely related to my back.
The main reason for this post is to mention a new treatment option for me. The physician that I've been going to for a couple weeks now refered me to a massage therapist that works with nerves. Basically, from my understanding, this technique will "turn off" the nerves that cause me so much pain. It sounds valid enough to try, and I am willing to try new things to get this pain under control.
I must admit that, lately, it's been weighing on me pretty heavily. I've always tried to be as optimistic as possible, but I do have my times where it gets to me. An example of this is on Saturday night, I was out with my friends, just hanging out at a local bar, and I had to take the hydrocodone for my back (I was DD already for several reasons, so I hadn't been drinking. Just letting you know). One thing about the hydrocodone that I've noticed is that whatever emotion I am feeling is intensified. Meaning, if I'm happy, I'm really happy, and if I'm irritated, I'm really irritated. This can get hard to control. I prefer not to have my emotions and actions be influenced by external forces, such as, say, painkillers, so even the little bit that I took it out on my friends made me unhappy. It is another reason to try to get off of my painkillers as soon as I can. There are just so many good reasons to not be on them. But I digress.
Massage appointment is on Friday. We will see how it goes.
First of all, an update on my various illnesses. I think the tonsillitis has been beaten, but I managed to get a sinus infection because of my allergies shortly after that went away. So, I'm on my 4th round of antibiotics, along with various allergy meds and some nasal spray. I'm also taking iron suppliments for the anemia. While I'm still very tired, I do feel a lot better than I did last week.
I started my t'ai chi class today. This martial art, I think, will be very beneficial to me, because it teaches balance and stregthens your core body. I only did the steps for about 20 minutes today, but I'm already exhausted from it. I think it will really help, and I'm looking forward to actually getting into it.
I continue to have back, knee, and foot problems, though they've seemed to reach a plataeu on how bad they've gotten. I'm happy to say that my feet haven't caused me immense amounts of pain lately, but I can feel the cramps sometimes. I do not have arthritis, which I figured, so it's most likely related to my back.
The main reason for this post is to mention a new treatment option for me. The physician that I've been going to for a couple weeks now refered me to a massage therapist that works with nerves. Basically, from my understanding, this technique will "turn off" the nerves that cause me so much pain. It sounds valid enough to try, and I am willing to try new things to get this pain under control.
I must admit that, lately, it's been weighing on me pretty heavily. I've always tried to be as optimistic as possible, but I do have my times where it gets to me. An example of this is on Saturday night, I was out with my friends, just hanging out at a local bar, and I had to take the hydrocodone for my back (I was DD already for several reasons, so I hadn't been drinking. Just letting you know). One thing about the hydrocodone that I've noticed is that whatever emotion I am feeling is intensified. Meaning, if I'm happy, I'm really happy, and if I'm irritated, I'm really irritated. This can get hard to control. I prefer not to have my emotions and actions be influenced by external forces, such as, say, painkillers, so even the little bit that I took it out on my friends made me unhappy. It is another reason to try to get off of my painkillers as soon as I can. There are just so many good reasons to not be on them. But I digress.
Massage appointment is on Friday. We will see how it goes.
2008-09-29
Pile it on
So, my problems, lately, have been increasing. Not all back related.
First off, I've had tonsillitis for a month now. I've manage to suppress it rather efficiently with antibiotics, but it just keeps coming back. I'm about to start my third round of them tonight. We did do tests, so we know it's not strep or mono. Thank goodness for that.
I've also been having problems with my feet in the last week. My arches have been swollen and at times I can barely walk. I woke up with this problem on Thursday and it just hasn't gone away. It may or not be related to my back. I'm talking to my surgeon on Wednesday anyway, so I'll mention it to him. The health clinic is going to do tests for arthritis >.<
I also found out that I'm mildly anemic. Which just adds to the fun.
I found an internship where I sit, and went back to Piazza, where I stand. I'm going to be a pile of mush by the end of this semester. Or passed out on the street. Probably the second one.
First off, I've had tonsillitis for a month now. I've manage to suppress it rather efficiently with antibiotics, but it just keeps coming back. I'm about to start my third round of them tonight. We did do tests, so we know it's not strep or mono. Thank goodness for that.
I've also been having problems with my feet in the last week. My arches have been swollen and at times I can barely walk. I woke up with this problem on Thursday and it just hasn't gone away. It may or not be related to my back. I'm talking to my surgeon on Wednesday anyway, so I'll mention it to him. The health clinic is going to do tests for arthritis >.<
I also found out that I'm mildly anemic. Which just adds to the fun.
I found an internship where I sit, and went back to Piazza, where I stand. I'm going to be a pile of mush by the end of this semester. Or passed out on the street. Probably the second one.
2008-08-08
Solution, please.
A few things to say.
First of all, I managed to land myself a job at a local mexican place. It's a fast food job, meaning lots of standing and lots of moving. We all know what that means for my back.
So, knowing this, I took my hydrocodone in advance today. That got me through my shift, no problem. The problem happened tonight, when I decided not to take a second dose for when I went out to karaoke.
I was fine for the first couple hours. The pain came on slowly, almost so I began to ignore it. However, it has grown into a beast which I can hardly deal with. I barely kept my composure at the bar, and certainly lost it when I got to my car. The drive home was torturous, as well. Even sitting here is pretty bad.
I guess tonight is an example of exactly how bad this gets. Especially when I choose to bear the pain. I've said before how much I want a solution, and this just cements that so much more.
So now, once again, I wait. For relief, and maybe some pain-free sleep.
First of all, I managed to land myself a job at a local mexican place. It's a fast food job, meaning lots of standing and lots of moving. We all know what that means for my back.
So, knowing this, I took my hydrocodone in advance today. That got me through my shift, no problem. The problem happened tonight, when I decided not to take a second dose for when I went out to karaoke.
I was fine for the first couple hours. The pain came on slowly, almost so I began to ignore it. However, it has grown into a beast which I can hardly deal with. I barely kept my composure at the bar, and certainly lost it when I got to my car. The drive home was torturous, as well. Even sitting here is pretty bad.
I guess tonight is an example of exactly how bad this gets. Especially when I choose to bear the pain. I've said before how much I want a solution, and this just cements that so much more.
So now, once again, I wait. For relief, and maybe some pain-free sleep.
2008-07-28
Familiar Path
It's painfully obvious that I haven't updated in awhile. I really don't have that much to say.
It's been about a month or so since I finished my traction therapy. I can now tell that it hasn't really done much to help me out. I'm not terribly surprised, since traction is focused on the lumbar vertebra, which, I have stressed many times, is not the location of the majority of my pain. It seems that, once again, the red herring of my herniated disc ruled out the thoracic pain around my curve. They even said that "Sometimes the nerves that the disc pinches can cause pain in the upper back, too."
Do any of these people really listen to what I say?
To their credit, they gave me exercises to work on my mid-back. However, they're difficult to do on what I have at home, and my back hurts a lot worse after I do them. I've tried to keep up on them, I really have, but when I'm already in pain before I start, it makes the prospect of continuing to aggravate it less than appealing.
So, where am I now? Right back where I started. Taking painkillers and living every day in fear of hurting myself. Truly, that expensive and risky surgery is possibly the only solution, and that won't be possible again for at least a few years.
In the last few weeks, I've had to take my painkillers almost every time I've gone out. It only continues to get worse. I guess all I can do now is continue to live as best I can.
And wait.
It's been about a month or so since I finished my traction therapy. I can now tell that it hasn't really done much to help me out. I'm not terribly surprised, since traction is focused on the lumbar vertebra, which, I have stressed many times, is not the location of the majority of my pain. It seems that, once again, the red herring of my herniated disc ruled out the thoracic pain around my curve. They even said that "Sometimes the nerves that the disc pinches can cause pain in the upper back, too."
Do any of these people really listen to what I say?
To their credit, they gave me exercises to work on my mid-back. However, they're difficult to do on what I have at home, and my back hurts a lot worse after I do them. I've tried to keep up on them, I really have, but when I'm already in pain before I start, it makes the prospect of continuing to aggravate it less than appealing.
So, where am I now? Right back where I started. Taking painkillers and living every day in fear of hurting myself. Truly, that expensive and risky surgery is possibly the only solution, and that won't be possible again for at least a few years.
In the last few weeks, I've had to take my painkillers almost every time I've gone out. It only continues to get worse. I guess all I can do now is continue to live as best I can.
And wait.
2008-05-27
Big Traction and Intimidating Equipment
My day started just the way I suspected it would: in pain. I brought it on myself, since I decided to go knee boarding yesterday. I still believe it was completely worth it. Most of the pain has ended up in my arms, which doesn't surprise me in the least.
So, as I proceeded to get up and take some of the usual painkiller, I realized that there was a little pain in my back, but certainly not as bad as the aforementioned arm pain. And not as bad as a usual work day.
So, I had a pretty good idea where this place was that I was going when I left this morning, but apparently, not a good enough of an idea. In true Amy fashion, I managed to get myself lost. The problem was...I went way too far down Ridgeway. Figures. After a phone call to the office and some directions, I managed to find the place. And after I circled the building, I managed to find the entrance. And after I walked down the wrong hallway, I managed to find the right area. I was embarrassingly 15 minutes late for my appointment, but at least I won't get lost again.
They started off my therapy by laying on a heat pad, which felt amazing. The physical therapist came in and started asking me questions, then finally explained what traction really is. I'll get to that later.
They then took me to the traction machine. This is a rather intimidating-looking piece of equipment. They put two harnesses on me, one around my hips, and one that went the whole length of my back. I was then attached to the machine. This is where it all got kind of medieval. Traction works by stretching your back. Which means...the attach the harness to one end of the machine, which pulls with a certain weight. There are padded posts under your arms, which holds your upper body in place. You are then told to relax as the machine pulls for 60 seconds, then releases for about 40 seconds or so. Rinse and repeat.
All of this is well and good, except for the nerve in my lumbar region that got pinched somehow. The pain started about 10 minutes in, and by 15 minutes it was so excruciating that I couldn't take it anymore. They had to take me off of the machine. They think the cause was the lumbar cushion was inflated too much. In my next appointment tomorrow, they're going to lower the pull weight and deflate the cushion a little. I really hope it works.
All of this is for my lower back, which for some reason, they think they need to do this for. My herniated disk has always been a red herring of sorts: a lot of people focus on that and not the more painful scoliosis pain. I brought this up, and as I suspected, they were focusing more on this less painful area of my back.
My session finished with a 15 minute relaxation time on some cold packs and electrodes. It helped a little.
Tomorrow we are also going to start some exercises with a ball for my scoliosis pain, while continuing the traction for my lower spine. They are also going to continue the electrode therapy. We'll see if the traction goes any better tomorrow.
So, as I proceeded to get up and take some of the usual painkiller, I realized that there was a little pain in my back, but certainly not as bad as the aforementioned arm pain. And not as bad as a usual work day.
So, I had a pretty good idea where this place was that I was going when I left this morning, but apparently, not a good enough of an idea. In true Amy fashion, I managed to get myself lost. The problem was...I went way too far down Ridgeway. Figures. After a phone call to the office and some directions, I managed to find the place. And after I circled the building, I managed to find the entrance. And after I walked down the wrong hallway, I managed to find the right area. I was embarrassingly 15 minutes late for my appointment, but at least I won't get lost again.
They started off my therapy by laying on a heat pad, which felt amazing. The physical therapist came in and started asking me questions, then finally explained what traction really is. I'll get to that later.
They then took me to the traction machine. This is a rather intimidating-looking piece of equipment. They put two harnesses on me, one around my hips, and one that went the whole length of my back. I was then attached to the machine. This is where it all got kind of medieval. Traction works by stretching your back. Which means...the attach the harness to one end of the machine, which pulls with a certain weight. There are padded posts under your arms, which holds your upper body in place. You are then told to relax as the machine pulls for 60 seconds, then releases for about 40 seconds or so. Rinse and repeat.
All of this is well and good, except for the nerve in my lumbar region that got pinched somehow. The pain started about 10 minutes in, and by 15 minutes it was so excruciating that I couldn't take it anymore. They had to take me off of the machine. They think the cause was the lumbar cushion was inflated too much. In my next appointment tomorrow, they're going to lower the pull weight and deflate the cushion a little. I really hope it works.
All of this is for my lower back, which for some reason, they think they need to do this for. My herniated disk has always been a red herring of sorts: a lot of people focus on that and not the more painful scoliosis pain. I brought this up, and as I suspected, they were focusing more on this less painful area of my back.
My session finished with a 15 minute relaxation time on some cold packs and electrodes. It helped a little.
Tomorrow we are also going to start some exercises with a ball for my scoliosis pain, while continuing the traction for my lower spine. They are also going to continue the electrode therapy. We'll see if the traction goes any better tomorrow.
2008-05-23
A New Course
I decided to try other options than surgery. Now just isn't a good time anymore.
The surgeon prescribed a type of treatment called "big traction". I'm not really sure what it is. I have my first appointment at 10 on Tuesday, so I suppose I'll find out then.
The next option is cortisone shots. I guess these last for about 3 months. The downside is possible hormone imbalance. Fun stuff. I guess we'll have to see if it gets to that point.
I guess I'm going to try everything there is to try to relieve this pain. If these options don't work, then I will reconsider surgery. Although at this point, I'm not really sure when that would happen.
The surgeon prescribed a type of treatment called "big traction". I'm not really sure what it is. I have my first appointment at 10 on Tuesday, so I suppose I'll find out then.
The next option is cortisone shots. I guess these last for about 3 months. The downside is possible hormone imbalance. Fun stuff. I guess we'll have to see if it gets to that point.
I guess I'm going to try everything there is to try to relieve this pain. If these options don't work, then I will reconsider surgery. Although at this point, I'm not really sure when that would happen.
2008-05-21
Decision
Today is the day that I talk to my surgeon.
The surgery is scheduled for 2 and a half weeks away, but I haven't been able to do anything because I've been waiting for today. The office called me back last week and asked me to come in to talk to them. I guess they're worried that I don't understand what's going on.
I probably don't.
I don't know what to do anymore. There's reasons for and a against this thing, and I don't feel I can weigh the options until later today.
Stressful? Na, not at all...
The surgery is scheduled for 2 and a half weeks away, but I haven't been able to do anything because I've been waiting for today. The office called me back last week and asked me to come in to talk to them. I guess they're worried that I don't understand what's going on.
I probably don't.
I don't know what to do anymore. There's reasons for and a against this thing, and I don't feel I can weigh the options until later today.
Stressful? Na, not at all...
2008-05-14
Crunch Time
It's been awhile, huh?
I finished out the semester following a very simple routine. Take hydrocodone every day I worked, and suffer through the day.
So, now I'm done with class and that job, so I have a bit of time to rest before my (rescheduled) surgery on June 6th. Yeah, I forgot to mention that bit. But anyway, I've been trying to figure out arrangements, and things seem to be changing. For one, I will be unable to go to my mom's, since I won't be able to take stairs. The other option is my grandma's, which is probably better since she has experience with stuff like this. I can't ride in a car for more than 15 minutes. That's the problem. My grandma lives in Cedar Rapids...which, for those who don't know, is an hour away. Mom gave me a solution-ride in a van with a mattress in the back, but I have yet to pass that by the surgeon. Other than that...I have no other options. Certainly none in Cedar Falls. Time will only tell how that works out.
So, the reality is, I'm helpless for about a month. I can't even shower for 2 weeks...someone has to bathe me. I can't lift over 8 lbs or so, and I can't drive for a month. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared out of my wits. But I made this decision, and I'm going to stick with it.
So...what's left this month? I need to get my second opinion, I need to have a physical, and I need to arrange stuff. I'll be lucky if I don't lose my mind before June 6th.
I finished out the semester following a very simple routine. Take hydrocodone every day I worked, and suffer through the day.
So, now I'm done with class and that job, so I have a bit of time to rest before my (rescheduled) surgery on June 6th. Yeah, I forgot to mention that bit. But anyway, I've been trying to figure out arrangements, and things seem to be changing. For one, I will be unable to go to my mom's, since I won't be able to take stairs. The other option is my grandma's, which is probably better since she has experience with stuff like this. I can't ride in a car for more than 15 minutes. That's the problem. My grandma lives in Cedar Rapids...which, for those who don't know, is an hour away. Mom gave me a solution-ride in a van with a mattress in the back, but I have yet to pass that by the surgeon. Other than that...I have no other options. Certainly none in Cedar Falls. Time will only tell how that works out.
So, the reality is, I'm helpless for about a month. I can't even shower for 2 weeks...someone has to bathe me. I can't lift over 8 lbs or so, and I can't drive for a month. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared out of my wits. But I made this decision, and I'm going to stick with it.
So...what's left this month? I need to get my second opinion, I need to have a physical, and I need to arrange stuff. I'll be lucky if I don't lose my mind before June 6th.
2008-03-28
Continuation
I'm on my second dose of hydrocodone today. Wonderful.
I still have 3 more hours to work. I think I'm going to go lay down on a couch until I start again. I just really want this day to be over.
I still have 3 more hours to work. I think I'm going to go lay down on a couch until I start again. I just really want this day to be over.
Drawing the Line
I've realized lately that I've come to a decision I've had to make before. That decision is: How hard do I really push myself?
I've had a love/hate relationship with work pretty much throughout college. Mostly hate. But since I'm mostly supporting myself, I really need to work. All of the jobs I've had involve standing on my feet, which, of course, begins to affect my back. Most of this school year, I've been struggling to make it through over 4 hours of work without some sort of pain. This week, especially, has been tough.
So, how much should I really work? How much is too much? I'm pushing that limit right now, and I have a feeling that I'm about to find it again. I've been at my limits before.
So, as I go in for an 8 hour work day, I guess it's something I'll really have to keep in mind. I've picked up several extra shifts already, and I'm considering more. I know certain people will tell me not to push myself, but I hate being indebted to someone else. I want to be able to live somewhat normally, and I guess that's a big reason I'm having surgery.
I've had a love/hate relationship with work pretty much throughout college. Mostly hate. But since I'm mostly supporting myself, I really need to work. All of the jobs I've had involve standing on my feet, which, of course, begins to affect my back. Most of this school year, I've been struggling to make it through over 4 hours of work without some sort of pain. This week, especially, has been tough.
So, how much should I really work? How much is too much? I'm pushing that limit right now, and I have a feeling that I'm about to find it again. I've been at my limits before.
So, as I go in for an 8 hour work day, I guess it's something I'll really have to keep in mind. I've picked up several extra shifts already, and I'm considering more. I know certain people will tell me not to push myself, but I hate being indebted to someone else. I want to be able to live somewhat normally, and I guess that's a big reason I'm having surgery.
2008-03-26
Set in Stone
My surgery is May 23rd.
I will be in the hospital for about a week, then I will be going to stay with someone, probably my mom. After that, I should be coming back to CF. If anyone wants to visit, I will be eternally grateful to you.
Now that the ball is rolling, I feel a bit apprehensive. But you better believe that I'm glad about it. In what seems like a push for the decision, my back hurt today. A lot. Almost unbearably.
This went will change my life. Bring it on, I'm as ready as to can be.
I will be in the hospital for about a week, then I will be going to stay with someone, probably my mom. After that, I should be coming back to CF. If anyone wants to visit, I will be eternally grateful to you.
Now that the ball is rolling, I feel a bit apprehensive. But you better believe that I'm glad about it. In what seems like a push for the decision, my back hurt today. A lot. Almost unbearably.
This went will change my life. Bring it on, I'm as ready as to can be.
2008-03-06
Giving In
I gave in at about 12:30 today. I couldn't stand the pain any longer.
I just took some more hydrocodone about 10 minutes ago. I'm going out tonight, so we'll see what happens.
I just took some more hydrocodone about 10 minutes ago. I'm going out tonight, so we'll see what happens.
Willpower
I'm in pain again today.
It's mostly my upper-middle back, but my left leg hurts, too. I really hope I can get through this day without painkillers, but I honestly don't know. I don't have to work, so that may help, but it's getting really bad. Plus, I have to walk everywhere today.
It's now 9:30. Lets see how long my willpower lasts.
It's mostly my upper-middle back, but my left leg hurts, too. I really hope I can get through this day without painkillers, but I honestly don't know. I don't have to work, so that may help, but it's getting really bad. Plus, I have to walk everywhere today.
It's now 9:30. Lets see how long my willpower lasts.
2008-03-05
The Come Back
It's days like this that make me want to do something about this condition.
I was in a great deal of pain earlier. So much so that 2 hydrocodone didn't take care of it.I'm okay now, but it hurt very badly while I was at work.Not only my back, but all the way down my right leg and my left knee. All of my usual pains, but at once.
I'm high right now, and I don't like it. Better than debilitating pain, I suppose.
I'm very glad that something will be done about this.
I was in a great deal of pain earlier. So much so that 2 hydrocodone didn't take care of it.I'm okay now, but it hurt very badly while I was at work.Not only my back, but all the way down my right leg and my left knee. All of my usual pains, but at once.
I'm high right now, and I don't like it. Better than debilitating pain, I suppose.
I'm very glad that something will be done about this.
2008-02-27
Wheels in Motion
I began my day with a 20 minute drive to get x-rays done. They were long x-rays, to be able to view my entire spine. Not only that, we did flex x-rays, basically with me leaning to the side and back and such. It was uncomfortable, it was early, but at least we got it done.
I had to take hydrocodone at work today, since I've been going non-stop since 7 AM and I'm completely worn out because of it. I'm still feeling some residual effects and it's not that pleasant. I suppose it's better than being in pain.
My orthopedic surgeon appointment was at 2 today. We looked at my x-rays, and then he talked to me about my schedule for the rest of the year. He then told me to think very seriously about the surgery, and that he's going to begin looking at all of the x-rays to determine the best course of surgery. I will go back on the 26th of March. That is when we will begin to schedule things.
So, at this point, I need to find another surgeon to give me the second opinion that my dad is asking for. I somehow have to get this pulled off in the next two weeks, before spring break.
I don't have copies of the x-rays to post. They're really not anything too special.
Things are starting to finally move forward. I'm glad.
I had to take hydrocodone at work today, since I've been going non-stop since 7 AM and I'm completely worn out because of it. I'm still feeling some residual effects and it's not that pleasant. I suppose it's better than being in pain.
My orthopedic surgeon appointment was at 2 today. We looked at my x-rays, and then he talked to me about my schedule for the rest of the year. He then told me to think very seriously about the surgery, and that he's going to begin looking at all of the x-rays to determine the best course of surgery. I will go back on the 26th of March. That is when we will begin to schedule things.
So, at this point, I need to find another surgeon to give me the second opinion that my dad is asking for. I somehow have to get this pulled off in the next two weeks, before spring break.
I don't have copies of the x-rays to post. They're really not anything too special.
Things are starting to finally move forward. I'm glad.
2008-02-26
Ice
Yes, ice. Wonderful in a glass. Not wonderful on a sidewalk. Ice is terrible for anyone to fall on. However, I have a feeling that, if I were to fall, I would be in a great deal of pain.
I'm amazed I haven't fallen yet. I've gotten very close a few times. Of course, I've been hyper-careful, just because the consequences could be very, very bad.
The crap on the sidewalks continues to melt and freeze, so I think it'll be around for awhile. Lucky me.
I'm amazed I haven't fallen yet. I've gotten very close a few times. Of course, I've been hyper-careful, just because the consequences could be very, very bad.
The crap on the sidewalks continues to melt and freeze, so I think it'll be around for awhile. Lucky me.
2008-02-20
Boo Mandarin Chicken Day
Cooking over 100 lbs of chicken in a wok is not so good for my back. Granted, it was only 12 lbs at a time...but still.
Looks like I'll be resting for a bit before I go out tonight.
Looks like I'll be resting for a bit before I go out tonight.
2008-02-16
Lucky Break
My day could have been crappy. It wasn't.
I went roller skating for my step-sister in law's (whew) birthday party. I was afraid that my back would hurt, or that my ankle would hurt. Neither happened. My back had a bit of soreness, but that's all. I just managed to wear myself out and get a couple blisters. It was a good time.
I need to go skating more.
I went roller skating for my step-sister in law's (whew) birthday party. I was afraid that my back would hurt, or that my ankle would hurt. Neither happened. My back had a bit of soreness, but that's all. I just managed to wear myself out and get a couple blisters. It was a good time.
I need to go skating more.
2008-02-15
Build-up
It's about 45 minutes before I'm supposed to start work. As usual, I'll be working about 6 hours today.
So, the fact that my back is already hurting is not a good thing.
It's not bad, yet. But the only thing that I've done so far today is sit on my butt at a computer. I've taken some ibuprofen, and I really hope that it helps. I guess I'll have an update about it later.
I hope my back doesn't hurt tomorrow. I'm going roller skating for the first time in many years, and I would really like to enjoy it. My left ankle will be a bit of a problem, too (I sprained it about 3 years ago). I guess, like everything else, we will see.
*edit*
Well, It's about 2, and the ibuprofen did it's job for the most part. The pain is coming back, but it's not too bad, so I won't take anything for awhile. We'll see after I go back to work.
So, the fact that my back is already hurting is not a good thing.
It's not bad, yet. But the only thing that I've done so far today is sit on my butt at a computer. I've taken some ibuprofen, and I really hope that it helps. I guess I'll have an update about it later.
I hope my back doesn't hurt tomorrow. I'm going roller skating for the first time in many years, and I would really like to enjoy it. My left ankle will be a bit of a problem, too (I sprained it about 3 years ago). I guess, like everything else, we will see.
*edit*
Well, It's about 2, and the ibuprofen did it's job for the most part. The pain is coming back, but it's not too bad, so I won't take anything for awhile. We'll see after I go back to work.
2008-02-06
Fed Up
I'm not dealing with the pain today.
Some days, I feel up to suffering through the pain for the sake of my pride. I don't want to take painkillers, and I want to be able to stand it on my own. It's a Buddhist thing, I guess.
Today, however, I just wanted to not hurt. I'm so sick of it. I guess, today, the side effects of the hydrocodone are outweighed by the pain. Being in pain drains me and makes my day terrible. I'm tired of it.
I don't plan on making this a habit. Tomorrow, I'll probably be okay with just suffering through as usual.
Some days, I feel up to suffering through the pain for the sake of my pride. I don't want to take painkillers, and I want to be able to stand it on my own. It's a Buddhist thing, I guess.
Today, however, I just wanted to not hurt. I'm so sick of it. I guess, today, the side effects of the hydrocodone are outweighed by the pain. Being in pain drains me and makes my day terrible. I'm tired of it.
I don't plan on making this a habit. Tomorrow, I'll probably be okay with just suffering through as usual.
2008-02-05
Departure
This will be short, since class will eventually get back on topic soon.
I had to call in to work yesterday because of being sick. I really didn't want to miss 5 hours of valuable work, but I really had no choice. I was hacking my lungs out and it really did a number on my back. I had to take hydrocodone last night...again. I'm lucky I didn't have to go anywhere.
At least I'm not sick today.
I posted a long article right before this, so I'll leave you with less reading for this one.
I had to call in to work yesterday because of being sick. I really didn't want to miss 5 hours of valuable work, but I really had no choice. I was hacking my lungs out and it really did a number on my back. I had to take hydrocodone last night...again. I'm lucky I didn't have to go anywhere.
At least I'm not sick today.
I posted a long article right before this, so I'll leave you with less reading for this one.
Scientists Find Link Between Pre-1970s Diagnostic X-rays for Scoliosis and Breast Cancer Mortality
From what I can tell, this is mainly for pre-1970, but it really makes you think:
Scientists Find Link Between Pre-1970s Diagnostic X-rays for Scoliosis and Breast Cancer Mortality
Researchers have found that women with scoliosis, or abnormal curvature of the spine, who were exposed to multiple diagnostic X-rays during childhood and adolescence may be at increased risk of dying of breast cancer. The study appears in the Aug. 15, 2000, issue of the journal Spine*. Authors included scientists from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Md.; the Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis, Minn.; the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas; Information Management Services in Silver Spring, Md.; and the U.S. Scoliosis Cohort Study Collaborators, a group of physicians from 14 orthopedic medical centers across the country.
The 5,466 women in the study, who received an average of 24.7 X-rays, were found to have a 70 percent higher risk of breast cancer than women in the general population. There were 77 breast cancer deaths among the patients, compared to 46 expected deaths based on U.S. mortality rates. Patients were younger than 20 years old when they were diagnosed with scoliosis between 1912 and 1965. The mean age for scoliosis diagnosis in this study was 10.6 years, and the average length of follow-up was 40.1 years. Follow-up was complete for 89 percent of patients.
"These findings provide yet another indication that radiation exposure, especially in childhood, is associated with increased breast cancer risk later in life, and that the amount of risk is proportional to radiation dose," said Michele M. Doody, M.S., from NCI's Radiation Epidemiology Branch and the principal investigator of the study. Reported risks for exposures after age 40 are much lower.
Scoliosis occurs in approximately 2 percent of girls and 0.5 percent of boys. It is commonly diagnosed in early adolescence and may gradually progress as rapid growth occurs. Scoliosis patients typically undergo routine X-rays of the spine throughout their adolescent growth spurt to monitor curvature progression so that corrective action may be taken.
The researchers found that the risk of dying from breast cancer increased significantly with the number of X-rays. The vast majority (89 percent) of exams in this study involved definite or probable radiation exposure to the breast. Patients who had 50 or more exams had nearly four times the risk of dying from breast cancer as women in the general population. The number of exams per patient ranged from zero to 618. Six hundred forty-four patients had no recorded exams.
Similarly, the risk of dying of breast cancer increased with increasing estimated cumulative radiation dose to the breast. Patients who received doses of greater than 20 centigray (cGy) had more than three times the chance of dying from breast cancer than women in the general population. The estimated cumulative dose of radiation ranged from zero to 170 cGy; the average was 10.8 cGy**
This is by far the largest group of scoliosis patients followed to date. The number of X-rays that each patient received was tabulated through detailed review of the medical records and films, and the breast doses were estimated using actual machine parameters derived from one medical center (University Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Hershey, Pa.). Information was available during most of the calendar time periods covered.
Part of the increased risk of dying from breast cancer may be due to other breast cancer risk factors, said Doody. Breast cancer risk in the general population tends to be higher for women who have not experienced a full-term pregnancy or whose first full-term pregnancy was at age 30 or older. Based on questionnaire responses by 3,100 women in the study who were alive at the end of the follow-up period, it appears that women with more severe scoliosis were less likely to have given birth than those with less severe disease. Since severity of scoliosis also correlates with number of X-rays and radiation dose to the breast, it is possible that some of the observed breast cancer excess could be related to reproductive history.
Almost all of the X-rays received in this study were taken before 1976, when the dose to patients was considerably higher than with current techniques. For example, the estimated breast dose from a full-spine anteroposterior view (facing the X-ray machine) in 1940 to 1959 was about six times higher than an anteroposterior view in 1976 to 1989 and 200 times higher than a posteroanterior (turned with back facing the X-ray machine) view in 1976 to 1989. Although radiation exposures to breast tissue are much lower today than during the time period covered by this study, they are not insignificant. The authors recommend that efforts to reduce exposures continue by having patients stand with their backs to the X-ray machine, carefully limiting the portion of the body exposed to the radiation beam, and shielding the breasts. Repeat exposures should also be minimized wherever possible.
Scientists Find Link Between Pre-1970s Diagnostic X-rays for Scoliosis and Breast Cancer Mortality
Researchers have found that women with scoliosis, or abnormal curvature of the spine, who were exposed to multiple diagnostic X-rays during childhood and adolescence may be at increased risk of dying of breast cancer. The study appears in the Aug. 15, 2000, issue of the journal Spine*. Authors included scientists from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Bethesda, Md.; the Twin Cities Spine Center in Minneapolis, Minn.; the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas; Information Management Services in Silver Spring, Md.; and the U.S. Scoliosis Cohort Study Collaborators, a group of physicians from 14 orthopedic medical centers across the country.
The 5,466 women in the study, who received an average of 24.7 X-rays, were found to have a 70 percent higher risk of breast cancer than women in the general population. There were 77 breast cancer deaths among the patients, compared to 46 expected deaths based on U.S. mortality rates. Patients were younger than 20 years old when they were diagnosed with scoliosis between 1912 and 1965. The mean age for scoliosis diagnosis in this study was 10.6 years, and the average length of follow-up was 40.1 years. Follow-up was complete for 89 percent of patients.
"These findings provide yet another indication that radiation exposure, especially in childhood, is associated with increased breast cancer risk later in life, and that the amount of risk is proportional to radiation dose," said Michele M. Doody, M.S., from NCI's Radiation Epidemiology Branch and the principal investigator of the study. Reported risks for exposures after age 40 are much lower.
Scoliosis occurs in approximately 2 percent of girls and 0.5 percent of boys. It is commonly diagnosed in early adolescence and may gradually progress as rapid growth occurs. Scoliosis patients typically undergo routine X-rays of the spine throughout their adolescent growth spurt to monitor curvature progression so that corrective action may be taken.
The researchers found that the risk of dying from breast cancer increased significantly with the number of X-rays. The vast majority (89 percent) of exams in this study involved definite or probable radiation exposure to the breast. Patients who had 50 or more exams had nearly four times the risk of dying from breast cancer as women in the general population. The number of exams per patient ranged from zero to 618. Six hundred forty-four patients had no recorded exams.
Similarly, the risk of dying of breast cancer increased with increasing estimated cumulative radiation dose to the breast. Patients who received doses of greater than 20 centigray (cGy) had more than three times the chance of dying from breast cancer than women in the general population. The estimated cumulative dose of radiation ranged from zero to 170 cGy; the average was 10.8 cGy**
This is by far the largest group of scoliosis patients followed to date. The number of X-rays that each patient received was tabulated through detailed review of the medical records and films, and the breast doses were estimated using actual machine parameters derived from one medical center (University Hospital Rehabilitation Center, Hershey, Pa.). Information was available during most of the calendar time periods covered.
Part of the increased risk of dying from breast cancer may be due to other breast cancer risk factors, said Doody. Breast cancer risk in the general population tends to be higher for women who have not experienced a full-term pregnancy or whose first full-term pregnancy was at age 30 or older. Based on questionnaire responses by 3,100 women in the study who were alive at the end of the follow-up period, it appears that women with more severe scoliosis were less likely to have given birth than those with less severe disease. Since severity of scoliosis also correlates with number of X-rays and radiation dose to the breast, it is possible that some of the observed breast cancer excess could be related to reproductive history.
Almost all of the X-rays received in this study were taken before 1976, when the dose to patients was considerably higher than with current techniques. For example, the estimated breast dose from a full-spine anteroposterior view (facing the X-ray machine) in 1940 to 1959 was about six times higher than an anteroposterior view in 1976 to 1989 and 200 times higher than a posteroanterior (turned with back facing the X-ray machine) view in 1976 to 1989. Although radiation exposures to breast tissue are much lower today than during the time period covered by this study, they are not insignificant. The authors recommend that efforts to reduce exposures continue by having patients stand with their backs to the X-ray machine, carefully limiting the portion of the body exposed to the radiation beam, and shielding the breasts. Repeat exposures should also be minimized wherever possible.
2008-02-03
A Different Source
The last couple of days have been pretty crappy. I've managed to catch something. Whether it's a cold or the flu has yet to be determined, but I'm exhausted. I've heard that illness goes for the weakest part of your body. Which explains why it hit my lungs first. I also have asthma, for those of you who don't know. On both Friday and today at work, my back has also hurt quite a bit. It seems more like the aches and pains of illness, though. It still doesn't make it any better.
I really hope that I'm not seriously sick. I really need to be able to go to work and class.
I really hope that I'm not seriously sick. I really need to be able to go to work and class.
2008-01-30
Focus Change
Well, I had my monthly appointment with my surgeon today, and we're finally getting somewhere.
The disk pain is almost gone. Now, the focus is, once again, on the scoliosis. In the last month, that's what's been causing me the most pain. Even today. Just another reminder that I really want to get something done about this.
He didn't cover anything I didn't already know. He mentioned that it wouldn't take away all the pain, just 70% at the best. Any amount of permanent relief will be a major help. He also told me the type of procedure: the spinal fusion, and that it would take awhile to recover from. As I have mentioned before. He also asked me to start considering when I would have it done. I already have the answer to that too: Summer. After all of that, he said "It sounds like you've thought a lot about this, which means that it really is affecting your life in a significant way." Also very true.
So, what's the next step? I'm going to get some more comprehensive x-rays done, including a full back, side bending and movement. I'm also going to go back in a month, probably to discuss the x-rays. Another thing: Dad wants me to get another opinion, which I am inclined to agree with. After that...maybe, finally, something will get done about this.
On a bit of a side note, there was a little replica sitting in the exam room. It's of a herniated disk. The disk that it's on is the same one I have, but the side is on the right instead of the left. Take a look:
Just gives you an idea.
The disk pain is almost gone. Now, the focus is, once again, on the scoliosis. In the last month, that's what's been causing me the most pain. Even today. Just another reminder that I really want to get something done about this.
He didn't cover anything I didn't already know. He mentioned that it wouldn't take away all the pain, just 70% at the best. Any amount of permanent relief will be a major help. He also told me the type of procedure: the spinal fusion, and that it would take awhile to recover from. As I have mentioned before. He also asked me to start considering when I would have it done. I already have the answer to that too: Summer. After all of that, he said "It sounds like you've thought a lot about this, which means that it really is affecting your life in a significant way." Also very true.
So, what's the next step? I'm going to get some more comprehensive x-rays done, including a full back, side bending and movement. I'm also going to go back in a month, probably to discuss the x-rays. Another thing: Dad wants me to get another opinion, which I am inclined to agree with. After that...maybe, finally, something will get done about this.
On a bit of a side note, there was a little replica sitting in the exam room. It's of a herniated disk. The disk that it's on is the same one I have, but the side is on the right instead of the left. Take a look:
Just gives you an idea.
2008-01-29
Sensitivity
Today was much better, pain-wise.
I think the unusually warm weather had something to do with yesterday's pain. It was a good 40 degrees warmer than it has been. I have had problems with my knees being sensitive to precipitation, maybe this is similar.
Maybe I should try my hand at weather prediction. :)
I think the unusually warm weather had something to do with yesterday's pain. It was a good 40 degrees warmer than it has been. I have had problems with my knees being sensitive to precipitation, maybe this is similar.
Maybe I should try my hand at weather prediction. :)
2008-01-28
Speaking Too Soon
It only figures that I have back pain two days before my appointment.
It was pretty bad today so far. I had to take hydrocodone for the first time in about a month, so the full force of the side effects is hitting me right about now. I really don't like it at all. I would rather not take anything, but I can only take so much before I cave and take something. Especially when I'm at work.
I'm done working today, so hopefully I don't have to take anymore.
It was pretty bad today so far. I had to take hydrocodone for the first time in about a month, so the full force of the side effects is hitting me right about now. I really don't like it at all. I would rather not take anything, but I can only take so much before I cave and take something. Especially when I'm at work.
I'm done working today, so hopefully I don't have to take anymore.
2008-01-26
Change of Pace
Most of what I post on here is negative. I realize this. I don't really ever post anything positive here, because that's not really the nature of this blog.
So, I'm going to change it up a bit.
I'm doing really well. Surprisingly, in fact. Over the last week or so, I've only hurt a little bit, and I haven't had to take anything for the pain. I haven't changed anything...I'm working and going to class just like before.
Will the pain come back? Inevitably. And probably soon. But for now, I'll just enjoy the relatively lower pain days that seem to be coming my way.
So, I'm going to change it up a bit.
I'm doing really well. Surprisingly, in fact. Over the last week or so, I've only hurt a little bit, and I haven't had to take anything for the pain. I haven't changed anything...I'm working and going to class just like before.
Will the pain come back? Inevitably. And probably soon. But for now, I'll just enjoy the relatively lower pain days that seem to be coming my way.
2008-01-17
My back hurt really bad at work yesterday. And I mean really bad. I'm not entirely sure why, but it was worse than it usually is. I suppose, though, that some days I'm just going to have to deal with it. I really hope it starts getting better, though.
I guess the good news is that my herniated disk doesn't hurt much anymore. I haven't really even noticed much pain there. I'm sure, though, that if I did something stupid like trying to lift 50 lbs or so, that it would resurface very quickly.
I don't have work today, but I do have class. That, paired with the fact that I got lots of sleep last night, should help. I hope so.
I guess the good news is that my herniated disk doesn't hurt much anymore. I haven't really even noticed much pain there. I'm sure, though, that if I did something stupid like trying to lift 50 lbs or so, that it would resurface very quickly.
I don't have work today, but I do have class. That, paired with the fact that I got lots of sleep last night, should help. I hope so.
2008-01-14
Predicted Outcome
I suppose I'm not surprised that my back is hurting right now. It's my first true day back at work (by that, I mean that I worked more than an hour and a half), and I worked for a good 5 and a half hours today. It didn't start hurting until about 12:30 or so, which means I worked 3 1/2 hours without any pain. I guess that's a good start.
I knew this would happen. I've known for awhile. It's my first day really working and being out for an extended period of time since I got done with finals week. I just hope I get used to it.
The pain is very widespread through my mid-back. My knees also ache a bit. This is the old pain. The disk pain hasn't surfaced...yet. Give it time...
I took ibuprofen for it, but as expected, it didn't do a damn thing.
I knew this would happen. I've known for awhile. It's my first day really working and being out for an extended period of time since I got done with finals week. I just hope I get used to it.
The pain is very widespread through my mid-back. My knees also ache a bit. This is the old pain. The disk pain hasn't surfaced...yet. Give it time...
I took ibuprofen for it, but as expected, it didn't do a damn thing.
2008-01-13
A new bit of info
I found this very interesting:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/06/070614100445.htm
Basically, they think a deformed gene causes the physical deformity. Very interesting. Could this be the solution to the "unknown cause" of most cases of scoliosis?
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/06/070614100445.htm
Basically, they think a deformed gene causes the physical deformity. Very interesting. Could this be the solution to the "unknown cause" of most cases of scoliosis?
2008-01-10
Day of Reckoning....Or maybe not
So, today was the first day of work in a month. I thought I would be there for about 4 or 5 hours, so I was prepared for some pain when I left.
I was there for an hour.
I am in some amount of pain right now, but I doubt it's because of work. It's not so bad, but I'm aware that it could get worse, so I guess tonight is a night I stay home and rest.
Here's hoping work isn't bad tomorrow, either. I think I only work for an hour and a half, so it's not really that big of a deal.
I was there for an hour.
I am in some amount of pain right now, but I doubt it's because of work. It's not so bad, but I'm aware that it could get worse, so I guess tonight is a night I stay home and rest.
Here's hoping work isn't bad tomorrow, either. I think I only work for an hour and a half, so it's not really that big of a deal.
2008-01-08
Not-so Good Dreams
I'm not entirely sure why, but the last two nights, the dreaming has been back. The only reason I mention this here is that it's been wreaking havoc on my back. It's not good to wake up with back pain. While it hasn't been terrible, it certainly hasn't been great. I have noticed that getting out and moving around helps a little, as long as I don't exert myself. At this point, I'm not entirely sure how work will go. I'm just happy that my job isn't very physical, besides being on my feet. I suppose we'll have to see.
That's all things are, lately. "Wait and see what happens." I guess I'm okay with waiting, as long as, in the end, something gets done about it.
That's all things are, lately. "Wait and see what happens." I guess I'm okay with waiting, as long as, in the end, something gets done about it.
2008-01-05
Nostalgia
The pain that's been bothering me for 5 years is here. The dull, intense pain that spreads the entire middle of my back along the spine. The pain that causes my muscles to tighten to the point of stone-hard. The pain that causes my back spasms.
This is the pain that drove me to finally go talk to a surgeon.
It doesn't matter where I sit. My couch, my friend's couch, my chair, my car...it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter how I sit, how much I stretch, or how much I move or don't move. Nothing helps.
Usually, when it's this bad, it almost inevitably comes down to spasms. I know a lot of you have seen them. I know a lot of you have not. I do have limited control over them. But repressing them hurts more than just letting them go. When I'm at home, I will usually let them run their course. They go for an hour, sometimes an hour and a half. I'm lucid during the whole thing.
Once they start, I have a muscle relaxant I take. It's called flexeril or cyclobenzaprine (I'll call it cyclo for short). The effect is a rag-doll relaxation that makes my limbs turn to jelly, but my back relax to what would be considered "normal". Sometimes, it makes me tired. I do know one thing, though. I can't usually do much after it starts working.
So, right now, I'm waiting for the hydrocodone and the cyclo to kick in. My back hasn't spasmed, yet. It got very close when I was at my friend's house, it was pretty close when I was in my car, and it has twitched a few times since then. There's not much the cyclo will do to stop it, but at least it will take the edge off the pain. At this point, it's a waiting game. I know it will spasm. I just hope it's not terribly bad.
I'll post an update tomorrow if anything happens.
*edit*
It's now the next day, and nothing happened. I managed to catch it in time. I usually don't. It still hurts, though.
This is the pain that drove me to finally go talk to a surgeon.
It doesn't matter where I sit. My couch, my friend's couch, my chair, my car...it doesn't matter. It doesn't matter how I sit, how much I stretch, or how much I move or don't move. Nothing helps.
Usually, when it's this bad, it almost inevitably comes down to spasms. I know a lot of you have seen them. I know a lot of you have not. I do have limited control over them. But repressing them hurts more than just letting them go. When I'm at home, I will usually let them run their course. They go for an hour, sometimes an hour and a half. I'm lucid during the whole thing.
Once they start, I have a muscle relaxant I take. It's called flexeril or cyclobenzaprine (I'll call it cyclo for short). The effect is a rag-doll relaxation that makes my limbs turn to jelly, but my back relax to what would be considered "normal". Sometimes, it makes me tired. I do know one thing, though. I can't usually do much after it starts working.
So, right now, I'm waiting for the hydrocodone and the cyclo to kick in. My back hasn't spasmed, yet. It got very close when I was at my friend's house, it was pretty close when I was in my car, and it has twitched a few times since then. There's not much the cyclo will do to stop it, but at least it will take the edge off the pain. At this point, it's a waiting game. I know it will spasm. I just hope it's not terribly bad.
I'll post an update tomorrow if anything happens.
*edit*
It's now the next day, and nothing happened. I managed to catch it in time. I usually don't. It still hurts, though.
2008-01-02
Mind Dump
The appointment today went about as I expected. I waited an hour to see the doctor, and the only thing he decided was further observation. I'm actually happy about that. Hasty decisions aren't a good thing.
I go back on January 30th. The office is moving to the area between the Dome and the Wellness Center, which is great news. That means that it's now on campus.
After my appointment, I went to my storage garage and got my bass guitar out. I plan on learning how to play it. It's in my car until I clean up my room a little more. I was also going to get some wire shelves, but I couldn't find some pieces in the really low light. It was also just a little too cold.
As for now, I'm going to take some hydrocodone and deal with the high while I'm home. We'll see if I feel better tomorrow. If I do, I need to clean up my apartment more.
I go back on January 30th. The office is moving to the area between the Dome and the Wellness Center, which is great news. That means that it's now on campus.
After my appointment, I went to my storage garage and got my bass guitar out. I plan on learning how to play it. It's in my car until I clean up my room a little more. I was also going to get some wire shelves, but I couldn't find some pieces in the really low light. It was also just a little too cold.
As for now, I'm going to take some hydrocodone and deal with the high while I'm home. We'll see if I feel better tomorrow. If I do, I need to clean up my apartment more.
Appointment Day
I go to the surgeon today. I'm actually leaving in about 10 minutes.
It only figures that I hurt on the day of my appointment. It's not terrible, but I'm not so happy about it. I took one hydrocodone, because I don't want to be too high to drive. It's taken the edge off, but I still hurt.
I'm not sure what he's going to say. I will certainly post after I get back.
It only figures that I hurt on the day of my appointment. It's not terrible, but I'm not so happy about it. I took one hydrocodone, because I don't want to be too high to drive. It's taken the edge off, but I still hurt.
I'm not sure what he's going to say. I will certainly post after I get back.
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