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2 herniated disks/ chronic back pain, Skelaxin question.

Hi about a year ago a had an injury at work that caused 2 herniated disks. I did the physical therapy for a while than realized I can do most of the pt stuff at home or at the gym. I am prescribed Celebrex and skelaxin. I have a question about the skelaxin. Well my job is physically demanding I work in a hospital I do patient care I "boost" patients, transport patients, help very unsteady patients get out of bed and walk. So quite often I need to take my skelaxin. My lower back tightens up and I just need some relief. I have been taking it a bit more often than I did say 6 months ago. I tKe it as prescribed I have never gone over the maximum dose, I am just concerned about possible withdrawal or anything like that from skelaxin. I have read up on it a lot and it seems pretty harmless and safe, especially compared to other back pain medications. I have refused somas and other narcotics because I don't want to go down that road. Just concerned if say I work 5 days in a row and I take the skelaxin every day. Than I'm off for two days. Thy 6th and 7 th day will my body be craving skelaxin lol.? Any feedback any experience is appreciated.mthank you.
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15631377 tn?1448394622
hi...fri....
Physical therapy often plays a major role in herniated disc recovery. Its methods not only offer immediate pain relief, but they also teach you how to condition your body to prevent further injury.

There are a variety of physical therapy techniques. Passive treatments relax your body and include deep tissue massage, hot and cold therapy, electrical stimulation (eg, TENS), and hydrotherapy.

Your physical therapy program will usually begin with passive treatments. But once your body heals, you will start active treatments that strengthen your body and prevent further pain. Your physical therapist will work with you to develop a plan that best suits you....
all the best..
Helpful - 0
7721494 tn?1431627964
Hello youngdude421.

Neither Skelaxin (metaxalone) nor Celebrex (celecoxib) cause dependence. Your body will not crave either medication.

You will not develop tolerance to either medication, nor will you suffer withdrawal symptoms in their absence.

The usual dose of Skelaxin is 800mg every 6 to 8 hours (three or four times a day). Do not exceed the maximum daily dose, and don't mix Skelaxin with alcohol, barbiturates, or other CNS depressants.

Be very careful to use proper body mechanics when handling patients.

None of these treatments will addresses the underlying problem of disc herniation. While physical therapy can help keep core muscles strong and reduce inflammation, and increase circulation to the injury, it does not guarantee healing of damaged discs. So be aware of any changes of sensation or pain in the lower back, hips, buttocks, or legs.

If you experience radiating pain in the buttocks or legs, sharp pain in the lower back, or numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, seek medical attention.

Simple disc injuries can heal within 6-18 months, reducing your need for muscle relaxants or analgesics. If so, you can reduce or discontinue either Skelaxin or Celebrex without fear of withdrawal.

Best wishes.
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