Question:
Back pain from weight loss? Has anyone else had this because of large stomach apron?
I have had worsening back pain for about the last 5 weeks. I am 12 weeks post-op and have lost about 63 pounds, though I do not seem to be losing it in my stomach. Could this be causing my back pain? Is there anyone else who has experienced this? I don't know if it's because I'm carrying my weight differently, or disproportionately in the front. What did you do? — raye (posted on April 17, 2003)
April 16, 2003
I know all about that:( I lost fast 120 pounds in 6 months and my back
ached for much of that time because how I moved and carried weight changed
so fast. It slowly went away by one year. Not bad in AM but by late evening
OUCH. I was told a personal trainer could recommend exercises to help
strengthen these muscles and help the pain but didnt have the $ toi do
this.
— bob-haller
April 16, 2003
Yes, I do indeed have back pain for this reason. In fact, it is the basis
of my appeal for a panniculectomy to my insurer. Research shows (thank
you, Vicki Bowen for this info!) that even an additional 10 lbs of fatty
tissue (the apron) adds 100 lbs of stress to the natual curve of the spine.
You may find some relief if you wear an undergarment that supports that
area (girdle, tummy-slimming pantyhose, etc.). If that helps, then you'll
know that's the problem. Good luck!
— scottiemaam O.
April 17, 2003
Hi Raye...I sure do feel your pain. I had Lap RNY in Nov and have lost
89lbs...I carried all my weight in the middle (and still do) I've never
really suffered from back pain, but for the past few weeks, pain in my back
keeps me up at night. My surgeon says I'll need to wait 16 months for TT-
(ugh) I do wear support panties, not sure if thats helping me or not. Best
wishes
Kim
— WABBIT F.
April 17, 2003
The apron does cause back pain, but there is also the possibility that your
ribs could be shifting. I was in terrible pain (between shoulder blades
and a little lower) and finally at my 4 month mark I went to the
chiropractor. He said that when you lose weight this rapidly your rib cage
shifts faster and sometimes causes the ribs to become
"dis-located" in the back. I went 2-3 times a week for a month,
now I am down to once every other month. It was so nice to find relief
from that gnawing pain. Good luck!
— Dana B.
April 17, 2003
I think many of us suffered from temporary back pain at some point during
our weight loss journey. Your back muscles cannot compensate for such a
rapid shift in weight loss and it's effect on the body mechanics. My
personal trainer hubby had me do some back strengthening exercises with
weights and more stomach strengthening exercises to help take the strain
off the back. After a few months, it did go away, but for those with large
tummy aprons, or hanging boobs, sometimes the pain does not go away, and
this forms the basis for your insurance claim for a tummy tuck and boob
lift. Keep well documented records of visits to the PCP and the pain you
are experiencing. You are only 3 months post-op and if you start now, you
will have good records for when/if you decide to have plastics.
— Cindy R.
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