So do I just work through the pain?

[Katie]

KBear, I still am very careful about pretty much everything that involves lifting, etc. I'm not sure what caused this strain on my ligaments, but the chiro said it was bilateral, both sides. Back to walking more, and building up some strength. And a bit of ice

SemperFi, I am so happy that you are able to get out and enjoy something so difficult/so ordinary as a movie! What a milestone. We went out with friends a few weeks ago to the new Leonardo Dicaprio movie and I loved it. My husband was thrilled that we had an actual date, finally

Thanks everyone for all the advice. It was heeded, and I am very thankful for all the experiences to draw on here. It is invaluable and so very important for both knowledge and peace of mind. I appreciate the concern and care so very much.

[KanRunMo]

Katie,
I'm so glad you found a solution to your recent back pain. Whatever helps and "does no harm" as it relieves pain is what is important. I've found that water aerobics class and walking are the best exercises for me so far. I try to remember to do some abdomen exercises in the evening and in the morning a little yoga exercise - especially the "ode to the sun" (or something like that). I have only been to one chiropractor and he did the neck crack and deep muscle massage which was too intense for me. I'm sure there are other chiropractors out there who could have helped, not hurt. I have found a masseuse who also has a physical therapy degree so I trust her.

[Katie]

Yes, water worked well for me for a bit too. We have a pool, and when the temperatures soar, I'm able to get in (I'm allergic to cold ) It felt so good to float and do bicycling motions...nothing hurt as long as I was doing it right. Time to check the temperature again...another heat wave is upon us.

Wish I had the $$$ for a four season heated one!

Has anyone had success with hot tubs? Are they big enough to help?

[ajj1001]

Has anyone had success with hot tubs? Are they big enough to help?

Both jacuzzi's and steam rooms help ease things off for me, heat is the thing that seems to block the nerve pain and relax my muscles best. I have no regular access to either! I do some gentle bicycling and leg lifts in the warm water.

[KanRunMo]

I do my water aerobics at the nearby YMCA and they also have a hot tub/jacuzzi. Sometimes I sit in the hot tub and the jets do feel good on the back. However, I don't think you can get quite the same effect as "hanging" in a pool vertically and bicycling etc. I always imaging that its pulling down my spine so that my DDD is being cured. This isn't true but it still feels good. Since ice seems to be the new thing for injuries, maybe we should all have an ice tub instead of a hot tub.

[Katie]

LOL, with the temperature/humidity up to 43 C, almost 104 F, I might just take you up on that idea I can't wait for this to break in a couple of days.