Question
Degenaritive (sp) Disc, anyone else have this problem and still driving, or do I need to start thinking about a career change? Any response here on the board or by E-Mail will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks Flat Top
Answer
Hello Flat Top,
This is a tuff problem as I am sure you are aware. Very little can be done to slow the progress of this malady. Most of the treatment is aimed at reducing discomfort until such a point as to require surgical intervention. The treatments available usually begin with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Depending on how severe or how rapidly it is progressing, it often requires treatment with stronger pain meds, muscle relaxers, etc. When you get to that point, the medications alone will disqualify you from driving (if they are of a type that willl affect your ability to safely operate a CMV).
You didn't mention how long ago you had been diagnosed, how far progressed it was, or what type of treatments you have tried.
I do know that some of the hi-tech seats now available to drivers can help with the comfort factor. Unless you drive your own rig, chances of your company springing for one is slim, unless you have a really nice boss.
Passive exercise to keep muscles loose may be of benefit to you. I have no idea what your weight or build is like, so please don't take offense if I mention losing weight. Someone who is carrying around a spare tire is putting additional strain on the back muscles which can escalate a degenerative condition. Buidling up abdominal muscles can help as well, but take care that you must consult your physician before starting an exercise regimen. Especially with a chronic problem such as you describe.
For someone to tell you that your driving days are over would be doing you an injustice. With the help of your physician, the right type of driving job, under the right conditions, and with comfort and safety measures in place, you may find you have much time left behind the wheel.
That is something you should discuss at length with your orthopedist. Be sure he/she knows exactly what your job duties are and how you spend your work day. It will be up to the two of you to determine what you can and can not do and for how long.
I know this may not be the answers you were seeking, and I hope some of the other R/T members have something to offer as well.
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Keeping you safe, healthy, and on the road.
Nurse Red
Visit us at www.Truck.net/abmsVisit us at
Answer
For years I have suffered from constant back problems. The doctors said my disks were slowly shrinking and that somseday I would have to have an operation. Well, about two years age I was trying to get out of my car in a parking lot and trying to straighten up when this fellow walking by stopped and asked if I needed assistance. I said no, that it just takes time for me to move around. We got to talking and he told me about a company who sold magnets to help people feel better. We talked a long time and over a peroid of time I wound up buying magnets for my shoes, my back, a seat cushion with magnets and now I'm sleeping on a mattress with magnets in it. My back hasn't bothered me in over a year, I feel better, sleep better and have a whole lot of energy. I think you should try the magnets and any one else who has back trouble. It sure won't hurt and the magnets have changed my life. I'm even looking forward to turning 63 next month.
Good luck to ya,
Tomb92
Answer
I had to stop using magnetic therapy. Everytime I walked by the refrigeration, my body slammed up against it. I had become a human magnet.
Answer
Till recently I worked for a medical research company that did trial studies on homeopathic medicines and types of therapy. I never really new to much about it, but learned alot working there. Maybe there are alternitives to traditional medicines that you could look into so that you could still drive and not have to be taking prescription meds. Nurse Red would know better than I, but I believe that that you could see an (not sure of the spelling) Osteopath.I think they are MD's but look for non traditional ways to treat patients.
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p&s
Answer
A word about Magnetic Therapy.
I have been approached by numerous sales persons who would like for me to offer their products for sale through our clinic. With us being a dealer and purchasing the products from them ahead of time, of course.
I asked a few of them to send me a trial of their product. Only one did. We trialed it on an employee of ours who was having a lot of neck pain. She swears it did nothing after a week,( but I have a sneaking suspicion that had it cured her pain she would have had to find something else to compalin about)
I know of many who swear by magnetic therapy and others who Pooh Pooh it to the high heavens. I do feel that if YOU beleive it will help, IT WILL HELP. There is such a thing as mind over matter and it is a proven fact that a positive attitude in healing is half the battle.
As was noted, there is nothing to lose by giving it a try except your money.
I do not promote nor condone the effects of magnetic therapy, nor will I until I have proof positive.
Anyone else with thoughts on magnetic therapy?
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Keeping you safe, healthy, and on the road.
Nurse Red
Visit us at www.Truck.net/abmsVisit us at
Answer
Thanks for all the info......found out the results of the MRI today. It shows a "central ventral defect" at L5-S1, so just have to wait to see what the Orthopedic Dr. recommends