Lower Back

I am a 28 year old 6'2" male of reasonable fitness. Two years ago, whilst (over) exerting myself in the gym I damaged my lower back. Although the injury did not feel that serious at the time, the resulting condition has degenerated over time leaving me, now, in a considerable amount of pain.

The injury was caused whilst squatting with weights on my shoulders. I was wearing a support belt and perhaps this is what provided me the false sense of security that encouraged me to push too hard. Upon one lift my back arched quite unnaturally. The strength in my legs could not be supported by my lower back and for want of a better description, it felt as if my back collapsed slightly as I continued the lift. There was a small amount of pain at that time, though actually not much.

For the past 2 years the pain has got worse and worse.....and worse. Moreover, I have a loss of stability in this area which provides a horrible feeling of unease and reduces my confidence on my feet. There is a pronounced dip in my spine in the location of the source of the pain. Moreover now the pain has spread to my hips, legs and knees. A numb and miserable pain. My knees feel like they are under a great deal of pressure. Especially when standing still or walking slowly. Weirdly this pain goes when I walk at my normal speed. Additionally lower back feels weak and feeble and participation in any rigorous sports or lifting of any nature has not been possible for more than one year. More recently I have started to notice that my leg alignment is not what it used to be....

Although it is quite difficult to describe, it feels as if my hips have shifted backwards and upwards. It feels as if the the top part of my upper leg (where I suppose it joins my hip) has shifted outwards; and my knees inwards. My legs don't appear to be as straight as they used to be. Additionally, when lifting my knee, the plane in which my lower leg moves looks rather awkward.

Shortly after the injury I had an MRI scan, the results of which I am able to post upon request. I suspect things may look a little different now however (this is almost 2 years ago). Doctors at the time described a couple of my discs as 'dry' although advised that operating at that time was far too drastic a measure. At the time I felt very little pain. I remembering only describing discomfort at that time.

Although I do have pain killers  and anti-inflammatories for the problem I find that these have little affect. Alcohol, weirdly is the only tonic that provides me with true pain relief. Spending my whole life drunk however is hardly conducive to the lifestyle I try to enjoy. Additionally, generally the pain is much worse the next day after a night on the booze.

I have recently concluded my former employment where I would spend 10hours+/day sat at a desk. I am now much more mobile on a day to day basis.

Presently I am exercising daily. For about 30mins. Simply a series of stretches and abdominal workouts. They are all very gentle and are very low impact. These exercises were provided to me by a physiotherapist though to be honest, I feel they are having little effect.

I'm posting this for a few reasons. Do people know of any cases like mine? I guess there must be some. How do people deal with it? Physically as well as mentally. Any success/recovery stories out there? When does operating become an option? And what would an operation involve? Success rates? Recovery time?

I would  be extremely grateful if anyone is able to share any knowledge or experience with me. Please do ask questions if there are gaping holes in the info I have provided. I'm ready and willing to disclose any other details.

I would appreciate it in the case of medical professionals if you could mention your experience/qualifications in the field.

Right, I think that's about it. Keen to hear of any advice people are able to provide. Thanks.

[Zak_Han]

Hi,there
It is typical soft tissue injury in lower back region.
Without proper treatment,it probably can lead to body unbalance and spinal trouble (long term developing)
if you have pain that does not respond to narcotic medications and it is not possible to complete basic daily activities, it may be a good idea to see a surgeon earlier, rather than later.
About information of surgery,you can googling it yourself,huge.....