Massage my back

Almost 5 years ago now, I suffered a fall at work that resulted in some serious back problems. I have been through several procedures to find some relief from the pain. Surgery in my case is not a procedure with a good prognosis. Although some people think that there should be some miracle medical cure for all injuries in this day and age, it just isn't so. I have been told this by every spine specialist I have seen both mine, and the 2nd opinion doctors for the Department of Labor.

Spinal specialists have tried prescription medication for both pain and muscle spasms that occur...these are just bandages that cover the pain and give very limited and temporary relief. Although I still have prescriptions for these, I try to limit the use of them.


Doctors have also attempted epidural injections to my spine...OUCH!!
These have had a very poor response and do not last long enough.  There is also a problem with location of the impingement of nerves in my neck, making it almost impossible to place the injection in the proper position.


So after all this time, the conclusions have been reached, that there are two specific treatments that are effective in my case. Trigger point injections of a steroid and numbing agent directly into the muscles surrounding the areas of the spine where the pain and reduction of movement is located. These are effective for about six months, by rotating between the two major areas, I can find continuous relief by a quarterly treatment.

I also have to limit my activities in regard to bending, stooping, twisting and lifting weight above 20 pounds. 

The other treatment is a weekly session with a massage therapist and Chiropractor.  This gives me the most relief and lasts for 5 to 7 days,  I quite often can go almost a week without using prescription medication following a massage session.

If you are experiencing back pain, perhaps you should see if massage will help you.  The best I have found, are the women at Alta Vista.