Lower back pain

Hi. I'm 29 and I've had lower back problems and pain since I was about 8 years old. I went to see a neurologist and he sent me for an MRI. He got the results back and I have 2 bulging discs and one is pinching my s1 nerve and the other is pinching the s2 nerve, and I have arthritis in my lower back. He told me to do physical therapy but ever since I have been doing the physical therapy it's only been making it hurt worse. I told my neurologist that but he still wants me to continue to do it. Could anyone give me some advice on what to do? Should I find another neurologist? Should I have back surgery? I don't know what else to do. I'm tired of being in pain all the time. Thanks

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

I would suggest the same management as your doctor. If the pain is acute or severe you may take rest for a few days and try some anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery is not indicated for mild-moderate cases and physiotherapy may be tried for sometime before other options are considered. If physiotherapy still seems to aggravate your symptoms, I would suggest considering another physiotherapist before giving up the option and considering alternative therapies.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!

[clacurelle]

I read all of your comments and it breaks my heart!! I am 37 yr old mother of three boys and I am recovering from my most recent of 4 spinal fusions. I have tried every medication available and either I build up a tolerance to it or the pain just returns. I have also tried many alternative practices like acupunture, acupressure, massage, ect. I just recently began cryotherapy and I swear it works better than any other method of pain control. I know it has it's skeptics but it is a science that more people with back issues should check into. I go in a cryogenic chamber for 3 minutes at 200 degrees below zero every day...I'm going to give it a shot for 2 months...I will keep you posted. God bless all of you in pain!!!

[squirtatious]

I'm sorry for ur pain, I can relate. Have u sought chiropractic care as another avenue of care to check out?