back pain and numbness

about 8 years ago, i started getting back pain frequently. one morning i woke up with very bad pain, and went to the doctors. (i am 25 by the way) they did an mri. i was 16 or 17 at the time, so i dont remember all of the details. but from what i understood at the time, i had a disk that was herniated.it healed itself, as far as i know., because they didnt do anything for me, and it doesnt bother me anymore... sorry if i sound stupid here, it was when i was young.
anyway, ever since, my back always bothers me. i cant sleep most nights because i wake in pain. i have a tempurpedic bed, which is supposed to be good for your back. on another note, alot of times, mostly when im standing still, ( i am a short order cook, so it mostly happens when im cooking on the grill) i will get a tingly-numb feeling in my upper back. it will tingle for a few minutes, then i will get a numb pain, then it will just hurt all over my back. does anyone know of any causes, etc? any help would be great. thanks!

[Adam Tanase, D.C.]

Despite what the infomercials and salesmen tell you, I am not a fan of Tempurpedic mattresses. They might very well serve their purpose for astronauts on relatively brief shuttle missions in outer space, but I do not recommend them to my patients.

As for the herniated disc that healed itself and the upper back tingling sensations, they could be completely unrelated. Chances are, the posture you're standing in throughout the day has allowed for minor structural changes to your spine. As a result, muscles may be tightened on one side, with surrounding nerve irritation , thereby creating the discomfort you've described.

I'd recommend consulting with a local chiropractor. If you can find a local doctor in this website, that would be a good place to start: www.UpCspine.com

Warm wishes,
AT