Question:
Severe back pain even after all this weight loss?

Hello, friends...it's been a long time. I am 6 months post-op (as of Dec. 6th) and I have lost 110 pounds so far. I have scoliosis and had bouts of back pain when I was very heavy...but I assumed it would be better once I lost all the weight due was a strain on my back. Now, I am having severe back pain almost nightly and I can't sit in one spot or drive for too long without wanting to cry! Why does the back pain seem worse now at a healthier weight? Anyone else have similar problems? Thanks.    — Kelly C. (posted on December 11, 2002)

December 10, 2002
Hi Kelly I too have back and neck pain. I have lost a total of 127 in 8 months so far. I have (had) big boobs and a big panni. The weight is now in my tummy and boobs which makes a strain on my back and neck. I was told by my PCP that this is more than likely the cause of the pain.Good luck Sarah
   — sarah C.

December 10, 2002
I had severe back pain for nearly a year post op, caused by the fast change in weight distrubution. My body appears to have finally adjusted, and its just about gone. By backside is sore though if I sit too long. Jen my post op wife thought that REAL FUNNY:) Now hers is hurting too:):) Yep I move constantly because of this, long car trips are tough...
   — bob-haller

December 10, 2002
I had the same and it's because we are standing different because of the weight loss. See a chiropractor for a few sessions. It helped me a lot!
   — ZZ S.

December 11, 2002
I have had really bad back problems for many years. I had the surgery because of the back pain, my orthopedist said I'd be in a wheelchair by age 40 (I'm 26). Right after surgery for about 3-4 months, my back was improved. Then about 4 months out it got worse than ever. My back doctor checked me out and said that I'd lost so much weight so fast that my back didn't know how to compensate for the redistribution. It still hurts, but I'm being as patient as possible. I'm 6 months out as of today and I think my weight is pretty stable now as I'm only 7 lbs from goal. I hope we both get some relief soon. Have a happy holiday!
   — cjabates

December 19, 2002
I just posted about this today. I looked on here for answers, I got: it's trapped gas....your weight is shifting and you need to find your new center of gravity.....buy new bras.....Even my surgeon said that it would pass. I finally couldn't take it any longer and went to the chiropractor. I have two ribs poking out my back. Apparently when they use the rib spreader it is common. Then to top it off the weight comes off so fast that the ribs move. The good news is that is is treatable, but he was amazed that I was able to go for 4 months with this pain. I love this site, but it pays to remind ourselves that if it doesn't seem right, we should check it out.
   — Dana B.