Lower 5 s1 disc prolapse and 14 weeks pregnant!!

[sweetiepie1979]

Oh no I got results from MRI yesterday and I have a prolapse disc. I feel like this is an awful outcome while pregnant. It happened 4 weeks ago I was in agony for 2 weeks glued to floor on codeine and diazepam, not been able to take anti inflammatorys probably slowed recovery. I am now able to walk around but I am sore not nearly as bad though,all pain so far has been in leg and bum very little in back. Does anyone have any experience of this am I to suffer all through my pregnany and never be able to pick up my toddler and will I have to have surgery to fix it? I feel like it is getting better really slowly. If I am really diligent with Physio can I get better alone? Help! Feeling scared.

[Forgetfulmog]

Hi, congrats on your pregnancy!

Ok, first of all I am the disc prolapse queen having had lower back pain continuously for the last 16 years with numerous prolapsed throughout that time. I have also had a prolapse whilst pregnant (throughout my 1st tri & a month or so into my 2nd tri). So, I know exactly how you feel!

The good news is that pregnancy (bizarrely) often makes bad backs better - the weight of the bump sometimes pulls the disc back into place. Also the hormones loosen up ligaments which can also help with prolapsed (your body is less tense & therefore it doesn't hurt as much).

Now, I found Physio to be bloody useless, but then I do have a chronic back condition so not surprising really! However, in your case I would ask for a referral - as you're pregnant you should get one v quickly. What worked for me was The Alexander Technique - it's a bit hippie but it really worked for me. You can find registered practitioners here - obviously tell them you're pregnant, but there shouldn't be a problem as there's no harm to you or the baby (unlike things like acupuncture).

Have you seen your GP? Do they have any suggestions?

[Forgetfulmog]

Oh also I did have to have surgery 2 years ago, but that really was a last resort & only because the prolapse was so bad that it was restricting my spinal cord; a surgeon will only operate if absolutely necessary so don't worry about that!

Whereabouts in the country are you btw?

[sweetiepie1979]

Oh Mog you've been through the mill. I am in Scotland. I had Physio toda and they gave me exercises for my core and my butt. I'm much calmer from reading your messages so thank you. How are you now?

[Forgetfulmog]

Hey, glad you've had Physio - you just need to remember to do the exercises now!

I'm not too bad now thanks, I do get quite alarming spasms every day though - have had my MRI & am just waiting to be referred back to the consultant who did the OP 2 years ago. When I had the MRI prior to the OP I had 3 disc prolapsed so suspect one of them is what's causing the issue now!

I was in a lot of pain in my 1st tri but it disappeared v quickly once I hit 5 months. I know that now that must seem like an eternity to you but it will go quickly. Just keep moving (slowly) as much as poss - walking is great. Try not to do any heavy lifting (did you say in your OP that you had a toddler?) or cleaning. It may be worth getting your mattress looked at - if you can't afford a new one then just try putting a double duvet under your sheet - it helps spread the weight & takes the pressure of your back. Heat compresses or ice can also help as can getting someone to massage your back (be careful that they don't press too hard or on your spine).

I really do feel for you & I know how miserable & unfair it must feel for you right now, but you will get through this. I'm here if you need support

Btw I only asked about where you live because of you lived in Wales I could refer you to a v good consultant, but you don't so that's that idea gone!

Keep smiling & eating lots of cake!