Question
I have been living with a L4-L5 Disc problem for 20 years.  Everyone kept saying don't have surgery until you have to.  I would improve and then another episode with the wrong movement.  Finally 15 months ago I had a lumbar fusion after seeing that I wasn't going to get better again.  I had some of my spine shaved off and inserted into space between L4 and L5 and had a titanium cage and rod put in my back.  I am still having so much pain.  My left foot and leg are swollen and pain meds don't stop the pain.  I have been going to a pain mgmt center for three weeks and will recieve my third steroid injection in my spine Tuesday.  I also am going to therapy 3 x's weekly.  Suffering greatly.  Do you have any suggestions?  Thanks.  Norma

Answer
Norma:

Second Reply.

There is a great book out there which will actually cure many backs such as yours. It is by Dr. Batman*.*, author of "YOur Body's Many Cries For Water" available at Amazon.com and many other bookstores. The book is specifically on taking care of bad back, particularly the low back. Try that and see if you can get some relief.

Dr. Rozeboom

Norma:

Thanks for writing!

With that history, there must be a problem in your gut that is relfexing into the spine and causing the weakness.

First, get your water intake up. Filtered or spring water, no tap water. Drink at least 120 ounces per day or more, if you weigh over 240 pounds.

Then use flaxseed or fish oil for the Essential Fatty acids. Take about three times the recomended dose.

Of course, the Great American Diet is custom designed to create weakness in the cartilage system. If you are on fast food or frozen dinners, your body simply does not get the material necessary to rebuild the disc.

The cartilage will rebuild if the body is healthy. Check with your health food store. There are many forumulas out there.

I assume that somtime in that 20 years you went to a chiropractor. But try again. Go to www.sorsi.com and or www.icak.com and look for a good chiropractor near you. The proper adjustment can make a worl of difference.

Thanks again for writing and let me know how it goes.

Dr. Rozeboom.