hello squad.

[cupid04]

I've never spoken to you before but would like some advice please. My husband who is 60 has been
suffering bad lower back pain for about a month now.The pain also affects his right leg. The doctor
has told him it is a trapped nerve and given him co-codamol. He is still in a fair amount of pain.
The doctor has said she will send him up the hospital for physio if it dosen,t get better in the next
two weeks.Is there anything else he can do in the meantime to get some relief? I will be grateful
for any advice.

[jackthehat]

Acupuncture gave me real relief.
I was sent to an hospital physio who offered me this. I was surprised but really benefited from the treatment.

[Sqad]

Cupid, it certainly sounds like sciatica from a possible lumbar disc problem. Not a straightforward condition to treat and with variable results.

He needs an MRI scan to formulate a definitive diagnosis and ultimate treatment.

I agree with the Dr that simple analgesics such as co-codamol is the correct management at the moment and then the situation should be monitored.If there is no improvement, then he made need phsiotherapy or perhaps operation depending on the results of the MRI scan.

Keep us informed.

[Sqad]

cupid.......just another thought......if the pain doesn't settle, then you might well add Ibuprofen 400mgms to the co-codamol.

[sandyRoe]

He may get some relief by lying on the floor with the back of his legs supported on a chair.

[cupid04]

thankyou so much for all your help. Much appreciated.Will keep you informed.

[coccinelle]

I suffered with this for months and ended up going to a chiropractor for a few sessions who didn't do any good and then went to a osteopath and the pain left within a week. One thing he did say was to drink as much liquids (water, tea, juices etc) as I could. I now find that if I have a niggle starting in the leg it's because i haven't had a drink for a while and after a day of drinking as much liquid as i can it's over. Worth trying...

[cupid04]

Thankyou for your help Coccinelle.

[robbieswife]

Acupunture helped my totally sceptical Husband.He only had 3 visits that all it took!!

[cupid04]

I thought I'd give you an update how my husband is getting on. He is now waiting
for at the hospital for physio-therapy. He is still taking the co-codamol but not so
often. The doctor informs him that Iberurofen[ sorry, not sure of spelling] would
probably have worked better but he cant take it because of the tablets he takes
for reflux. His right foot is still numb and very swollen.He now gets lots of pins and
needles as well. Lets hope the physio works. Regards Cupid.