Aloha JJ,
I have had back issues for over 40 years. Genetics, mom, dad and brother all had back issues and eventually surgery. Herniated and ruptured L5-S-1.
First medical test, a CAT scan in 1982. Bulging disc L-5-S-1. No surgery. Various therapies.
Off and on back pain through the years. Intense at times. Therapies and holistic methods helped to manage it.
2011 I heard a pop and felt immediate burning pain in my glute. MRI showed a large tear of the annulus fibers at L3-4. Mostly holistic therapies helped it heal in 4-5 months. Again, very painful.
2011 2 months later I ruptured L-5-S-1. MRI confirmed it. The sciatica was extreme. From butt, down my entire leg, into my foot. No surgery, bit the bullet and let it naturally using a variety of methods.
The spine specialist told me that down the road I was looking at a fusion, with probable complications due to the instability of my low back, spinal segments, and due to genetics.
1.5 years later, spinal stenosis. The pain was the most debilitating of any of the back pain I had. I was 'flexion tolerate, meaning in a seated position in a chair, or driving a car, there was very little pain.
Standing, walking, anything in extension caused unbearable pain. In fact I could only take a few steps, or stand a short time before I would have to sit, or go into lumbar flexion.
BTW, Heavy drugs didn't work. Nor did decompression, or any other therapies.
Finally, some issues with my bladder and bowels started. The MD told me the time had to come to do the surgery. Sharp younger (40) spine specialist that believed surgery is done as the last resort.
2013, Rolled the dice and had the surgery done, fully expecting to have a fusion done. Thankfully, he didn't have too. Laminectomy L-3-4-5. Laminotomy L5/S-1.
Post surgery, pain was gone. The verves that controlled the function of my rt. leg and foot had died off from the stenosis.
Five years later I have 80% of my nerves back on line.
I have learned so much through the years from my own injuries, working with specialists, and researching multiple modalities from all sources.
Assessment-
-Are you flexion intolerant or extension intolerant? It sounds like you are 'extension' intolerant.
The 'McKenzie' method, when done correctly and not to aggressive, with the right assessment can help relieve pain by creating space. Less is more..
Stuart McGill is a pioneer in the field of scientific study and research pertaining to back injuries and pain. There is a 'Flossing Technique' for sciatica in one of his books, that I used . It helped immensely.
Decompressing in water off loads your spine. I'm not talking about swimming. Walking in water up to your sternum will lessen your bodyweight load by 75%.
Wearing a flotation device around your waist, get into deep water so that your feet don't touch the bottom and walk. Stay upright. The water should cover your shoulders. 90% of your body weight is reduced. There are other benefits to working in water. It's been part of my holistic protocols for 30 years.
Escogue method can definitely help
'Feldenkrais' therapy has really helped me.
MAT (Muscle Activation Technique) is one of my go too's.
ZHealth another one.
Acupuncture has really helped.
There are other modalities as well that really have helped me return to a high level of health, fitness, and function.
Give me a shout if you'd like more insights and information on your situation.
A hui ho,
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