The doctor says I have 'Mechanical back pain', any ideas on how to manage it?

[AintNobodyHereButUsChickens]

Apparently there's no reason, cause or cure. I just have to suck it up and deal with it 🥴 The base of my back is in so much pain, this happens every few weeks and lasts up to around 6 days. I can't bend, or straighten up. It hurts to stand or walk for more than a few minutes. Sitting or lying down is fine but only if I sit up straight or lie very flat, so no slouching!

I'm fed up of it happening, it's been going on since the summer! Painkillers make little to no difference, hot water bottle works but I can't keep getting up to refill it! Deep Heat is rubbish. Nothing cold works. Does anyone have any tips to help manage it or ease the pain?

@80sMum

I'm wondering whether you could be suffering from degenerative disc disease, OP. Does this cluster of symptoms match yours? Symptoms of degenerative disc disease

I should add I am not medically qualified in any way but I have come across many people online, mostly in osteoporosis support groups, who suffer from ddd and when you mentioned that your pain comes and goes I wondered if that might be the cause.

That sounds a lot like it! Especially with how it comes on suddenly sometimes, like this time, I bent down to pick something up and it was like someone slid a bolt across in my spine, I suddenly couldn't straighten up it was that quick! Might be worth another call to my GP then.

Do you do much stretching? Back pain can be caused by tight glutes. Just a few minutes a day of stretching can make a difference - loads of routines to follow on youtube.

@AllLopsided

I have back problems too, it's miserable isn't it? Get an electric heat pad, then you won't need to get up to refill it (Beurer is a decent brand, I have an XXL and a normal sized one).

I am lucky to be in a country with a private health system so I have a good physio covered by my insurance. I also see an osteopath who often makes a massive difference.

I second this advise. I also have both sizes of the same heat pads. Regular sessions with an osteopath have helped me a lot and I also have remedial massage every month. Plus daily feldenkrais which is similar to Pilates. I also agree swimming might help a lot, it’s gently because the water is supporting your weight.

Two sessions with a physio and regular Pilates have sorted my back problems.

I was told mechanical pain today by consultant. But it feels like a fobb off.