Question:
Do you still have back pain?

Okay, I checked the library, and couldn't find a answer to my particular question so I'm posting another "back question". I'm 5 months, 3 weeks and 4 days Lap RNY post op. I'm 5ft. 2in. tall and more active now than I have ever been in my entire life!! I exercise religiously, brisk walking every day, (2-4 miles~especially at work with a pedometer), aerobics class twice a week, use of the treadmill in the gym at breaktimes or lunch at work...My back hurts CONSTANTLY. I thought it would go away after I has this surgery and lost all of the weight. I've actually lost a whole person just about. Now I'm down about 90 lbs. I was diagnosed with scoliosis several years ago, and haven't really concerned myself with further treatment because I didn't want to take any strong medicine for it, but I'm finding daily, it's still somewhat difficult to sit at my desk at work or in a chair at home. I have this nagging pain at my left, not quite upper back. Do you think I might be working out to much or should I get this pain checked out?    — yourdivaness (posted on February 28, 2003)

February 28, 2003
Definitely get it checked out. Your doctor may give you specific exercises to strengthen that area. Also, working on your ab muscles will help support your back. Congratulations on your awesome work so far!
   — Angie M.

February 28, 2003
Hi. I'm not as far out as you, but I'm having problems too. I was diagnosed with scoliosis and back disease last year; it was the reason I started researching WLS.<br> I'm 6 weeks out, down to 198 from 222lbs. I find that if I do any of the things that used to hurt my back, it starts hurting again. Yesterday I had to stand for a long time, and I was really suffering last night. If I walk on the treadmill for too many days in a row, I suffer as well. My surgeon has let me take Vioxx, so I'm taking it with food. I tried to take it occasionally, but things have gotten so I'm back to taking it daily.<br> All the research I did in the Qs&As Library indicated that WL patients with back problems continued to have the problems even after surgery, so it sounds like we both will have to keep watching what we do. <br>Good Luck, Beth
   — Beth S.

February 28, 2003
It took over a year but mine FINALLY quit hurting.
   — bob-haller

March 1, 2003
Hi! new to this but being a RN and with back surgery 16 months ago and having hardward back there I can understand. I will tell you to first, see a doctor to have it checked out. It may be something as simple as learning to strength the muscles that have not been used to max benefit in your back due to your previous weight and the lack of execerise as you have stated. Second, try backing off and keep a journal and document what triggers problems for you. It may be very helpful even when you go to the doctor. Remember, your body has just been through a major change and may need help to adjust. I already know that I am going to have problems when I have my surgery and start to regain my health but I will prevail and stick it out. The long term goal is the best. Congreds on the progress. liz
   — elizabeth B.

March 2, 2003
Get to your chiropractor, I go every couple of weeks. With rapid weight loss like this, your rib cage shifts and basically you end up with dislocated ribs. They poke out into your back and cause the muscles to get sore and irritated. This is not an uncommon problem. I've lost 110 lbs so far and mine are to the point that when my husband squeezes me to hard during a hug, they will actually shift to the point that he can feel it. A chiropractor can help wonders! Good luck!
   — Dana B.