Question:
I have terrible pain in the right side of my back (top/bottom) has anyone had this?

The surgeon said it was probably just gas. It hurts so bad. I used gas x and drink hot broth! HELP!! I am 2 weeks post op and have not had one complication yet. If you have any suggestions please tell me! Thanks ~Diane~    — Di B. (posted on June 20, 2002)

June 20, 2002
Oh Yes........... I had a horrible pain on my right side.......I went to Urgent Care. they did x rays,(thinking possible cracked ribs from surgery) checked me for possible ulcers (had to drink this yuckey,stuff which would have deadened the pain had it been an ulcer) all it did was make my throat numb. I went back to my surgeon, he could'nt explain it, went to my PCP she didn't know what it was, went to a chiropractor, that didn't work...My physical therapist was also stumped....But now at 8 months out it has gotton much better..Only bothers me from time to time.....Wish I could give some encouraging words.....Best of luck, hope you find relief quickly !!!
   — Cathie T.

June 20, 2002
I have that pain as well. I am at 7 1/2 months post-op. I was told it was from the surgery and weight loss combined. That our center of gravity was changing faster than our bodies could adjust. It has gotten a little better now that my weight loss has slowed down. I also have arthritis and take Ultram for it. It seems to help with the back pain. My best advice is to find a good massage therapist in your area. It's wonderful and it will make your back feel so much better! Good luck!
   — Wendy H.

June 20, 2002
After my surgery on May 1, for 3 weeks I had very severe back pain. It was worse than any of the recuperating pains I had from surgery. I think it was from laying on the surgical table which is flat. It puts such strain on your back. All I can say is that that pain too passed! I took extra strength tylenol as needed and after 3 weeks or so, it lessened and finally was gone. Hang in there! I hope your recuperation goes well in spite of the back ache and you are happy (and healthy) with yourself! Check the library for postings on back aches as I know this was a frequent complaint.
   — Brenda A.

June 21, 2002
I also had terrible back pain, in fact I don't recall any other pain after my surgery EXCEPT my back. The doctor gave me Toradol injection in the hospital that helped alot and a prescription for Vioxx 25 mg liquid. The first two days post-op I thought I would die from back pain Lortab was too strong and knocked me out, no one could get liquid Vioxx and so desperate, I crushed a Vioxx tablet mixed it with grits and 2 hours later NO PAIN! Everyday for two weeks I took the Vioxx and no more back pain. Ask your doctor about Vioxx, Celebrex or even Bextra they really work. Good Luck. PS. the table does do it and I now have two herniated discs in my back.
   — Sonya C.

June 22, 2002
I have had chronic back pain on my right side. At first I thought it was my gall bladder but it is in a muscle and have been on Skelaxin for over 4 months now and with very little improvement, I know it is in the muscle as I used flexeri and it goes away, I just cant take that strong of a relaxer. I wish it would go away because it becomes very distracting as it gets worse all day long. Its fine when I first get up..beats me and my doctor.I am 65 month post rny greg
   — Greg S.