Re: pain management
If this was my issue,
For anti-inflammantion I would try Turmeric
For increased peripheral circulation I would try Gingko
For Nerve issues I would try Saint Johns wort and Fresh Oats
All taken as a alcohol extract
Also Colchicine and Willow, for pain or try 50 mg dose of devil's claw
Try an enzyme preparation such as 4 to 8 tablets a day of proteolytic enzymes containing trypsin, chymotrypsin, and/or bromelain to control inflammation
Take vitamins B1 150 mg a day, B6 150 mg a day, and B12 250 mcg a day so you need less anti-inflammatory medication.
If the pain is still too severe, you may want to take.
Corydalis ambigua is the strongest pain killer in the Materia medica.
Use a back brace during healing process. They are not expensive.
Do not use the back brace while sitting or in bed.
Do not bend even to reach into the fridge or pick up anything light, bend your knees and squat to reach.
When you bend, your upper body puts added weight on your lower back.
Buy the Dr Christopher's BF&C formula or make your own.
Bone Flesh & Cartilage formula
I don't mean to step on MH's toes but ;)
6 parts Oak bark
3 parts Marshmallow root
3 parts Mullein herb
2 parts
Wormwood
1 part Lobelia
1 part Skullcap
6 parts Comfrey root
3 parts Walnut bark or leaves
3 parts Gravel root
Do this exercise. Lay on flat on the floor with your knees up,
Squeeze your butt cheeks together tight, and press the small of the back downward untill it touches the floor and hold that position for a few seconds. Relax and repeat this exercise a few times.
Pull one knee up to your chest, grab your leg with your hands to help pull, do not bend the upper body upward as you might do with regular leg lifts.
If it hurts, do not pull your knee up to the point where you feel pain.
Repeat with other leg. Do not over exert. Do a few repetitions a day.
If the legs lifts hurt, just do the other exercise. You should be able to do the leg lifts without pain later.
Do these exercises every day. It is more important than you may think.