Like many people who suffer from lower back pain, I wake up most days stiff and sore. Some would say it was all that sitting at my desk over the years that got to hurting my lower back. Although according to some it was my love of skateboarding and the 10,000 falls from 12' onto concrete that may have done it.
Either way, my back was hurting.
I've tried just about everything to keep my lower back pain under control. Heck I even started Old Bones Therapy because I got tired of my ice packs slipping and sliding all over the place. I can't be stuck on a couch propping an ice pack in place. I need to be on the move, active and ruling at life.
Earlier this year I decided to see my orthopedic doctor and figure out what was going on. Well one MRI scan and 2 doctor visits later, I was diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease. This is not really a disease but rather a term used to describe the normal changes in your spinal discs as you age. These soft and compressible discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, allowing us to flex, bend and twist.
As we age these discs begin to break down, losing fluidity and possibly even showing tiny tears and cracks. Some of us may have been hard on our bodies and have a slipped or herniated disc (or two). All of the above can lead to that lower back pain we all hate so much.
The doctor explained that this is a normal part of the aging process and recommended that I see a Physical Therapist. I'm no expert but seeing a physical therapist sure sounded a lot better than some sort of surgery where you roll the dice on the outcome.
I have since been going to a physical therapist 2 times per week and incorporating compression, heat and ice therapy into my daily routine. For me staying active has really helped with my own back pain. By not resting and instead stretching and exercising i've been able to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
It is my hope with Old Bones Therapy that we can help in some way.
Here's to staying active and ruling at life!
Brandon Fields
Founder @ Old Bones Therapy
