Finally Retired

[19&41]

I retired from my job of 20 years the last of February. The 2nd of march my back went out and it really hobbled me. It seems the new people I have gotten to meet are doctors. I am to go in for 2 branch block procedures to determine which nerves would be best to do a radio frequency ablation on. I hope this works. I can't crawl up the back end of a console like this. It was good to be away from keeping after work and it's demands on my time. Hope things are going well for all of you these days.

[electra225]

It's nice to have you back on the forum, Rex! I hope your medical procedures are successful and that you enjoy your retirement.

[19&41]

Thanks,Greg!

[William]

I second that, having a bad back myself I know some of what you are talking about.

Bill

[TC Chris]

I retired from my job of 20 years the last of February. The 2nd of march my back went out and it really hobbled me.

Mine went out two weeks ago. I can't walk without bending over at about 40 degrees. I've been saying I walk like an old man but, at 78, I am an old man, so I've changed it to "like I'm 95."

Mine seems to be sciatic nerve issues and two days I started on a steroid taper (6 days). Not cured yet.

Give more news about your treatment.

Chris Campbell

[19&41]

They gave me a steroid pack early last month. No effect. they also prescribed me diclofenac. It barely does anything. They also gave me tizanidine. That puts me to sleep.

[William]

Do the doctors have a clue what is wrong? Something slipped?

Bill

[19&41]

The MRI indicated disc compression in 2 areas. That's where the procedures will be performed. I can't remember the exact locations without re-reading the synopsis.

[TC Chris]

Know what gives me some relief? Driving 2.75 hours in my new Tacoma truck. It's a low-end model without heated or 60-way adjustable seats, but for some reason it's like a treatment. At work I've got my standing computer desk in the sit position and keep a heating pad on the back all day, to no avail. But that Tacoma is like a cure. Maybe I should work from the truck.

Chris Campbell

[William]

Being a tall person having abused my back most of my life, and being stubborn, need to do things myself without asking for help, my back has been screwed up for years. L4-L5 is shot and something higher up but can't remember what right now. Fortunately PT does help me so I have avoided any serious treatment, but I fear as I age the day is coming. I wish both of you success with getting the help and relief you need. I bad back is not for sissies.

Bill

[19&41]

Mine will steadily increase when I stand or walk. If I can sit down for a few minutes before it gets very bad I can start again. I'm going to start packing my 3' folding stool when I shop. My car or truck both allow me to sit which offers relief. This just seems to flare up, with no rhyme nor reason. Last night, my hip was affected and I could not walk without bad pain between my hip and groin. Talk about walking funny. I must look like Mr. Humphries.

[electra225]

Does a back brace help?

[TC Chris]

I got a drugstore variety, and no.

Chris Campbell

[19&41]

mine flares up when I just stand straight up. I don't know if a brace would help.

[electra225]

My wife has extreme back issues. The doctor gave her a "professional" (for lack of a better term, not a drugstore or Walmart back brace) and it really helps her. She can cinch it up so tight, she can't move between her arms and hips at all. The doctor told her the brace puts pressure on her hips and shoulders rather than having her back support her body. You might check with your doctor to see if he could recommend a back brace specific to your back issue.

[hermitcrab]

You know you are getting older when your phone has more doctors and clinics saved then friends and family....

[MEZLAW]

I retired from my job of 20 years the last of February. The 2nd of march my back went out and it really hobbled me.

Very sorry to hear about your back Rex.

Congrats on the retirement. I closed my business on 12/31/25! It was long overdue.

[19&41]

It's hard finding the right place to hop off, isn't it?

[MEZLAW]

Yes, I always fell guilty closing shop after so many people spent huge sums of money on their phones systems.

[TC Chris]

On the subject of health lamentations, I had x-rays taken a week ago (Th., 4/2). The doctor still doesn't have them so cannot make treatment decisions. I called the practice again today and was told the hospital does not have enough radiologists. Meanwhile, I cannot walk standing up--have to bend over at about 45 degrees, and can't manage more than two blocks. This is crazy. My brother, a doc in VT, cannot believe it.

Chris Campbell