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.