12 May 2005

My... Back... Aches....

Argh....

My lower back is very sore now. The badminton game just now made me stretch and put stress on my back unnecessarily, causing me to regret it now... and regret it more tomorrow. I have already pasted those capsicum plasters that help relieve the pain, but it doesn't solve the root of the problem.

My back ache started slightly more than a year ago, when I slipped on my feet when bending down and pushing a large and heavy object. The floor was wet at that time, so I lost grip and lunged forward, instantly causing pain to my lower back, near the base of the spine.

I never saw a doctor or specialist for that as I thought it was a simple strained muscle, but right now I think it has more to do with the spine.... especially since one year is not enough to cure it. Meanwhile, massage therapists and other pain specialists charge exorbitant fees for a single session. I would rather live with the pain in my back than in my wallet.

Due to the risk of further injury, I am extremely careful when it comes to lifting heavy objects and being asked to move things. I guess I have been labelled 'weak' behind my back but I don't really care. I have to be constantly aware of my sitting position, which is what I'm doing for most of everyday. I keep myself upright but sometimes find myself slouching, which is a big no-no.

I have faith that if I maintain good posture, exercise to strengthen my back (swim, Yoga), and avoid dangerous situations (hiking, rock climbing), I would be able to alleviate myself from this strain.

If it doesn't go away when I'm 25, I'll probably look into corrective surgery... maybe it has something to do with slipped disc or something. But I seriously doubt I would still be walking happily if I had a slipped disc for more than a year.

Sigh, decisions, decisions.

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