I had a spinal fusion in november 2004 because i was in a car accident and broke my back. there are metal rods in my back, they go about half way up my back so only the top part of my back bends. I have constant pain, but its more of an annoyance it's not excrutiating pain. more of an ache, really. i mostly ignore it bc i'm used to it. i take no medications whatsoever.

i am just wondering what everyone does to control pain without medication and to keep your back in good shape. i am 21 years old had the fusion when i was 17. the fusion doesn't affect me too much that anyone would notice there was something wrong with me. it hurts to sit or stand too long. when i go into new york city and walk for a long time my back hurts really bad but usually i dont walk that long. sometimes my back will get kind of stuck if im bending and hurt after for a minute or two.

one thing that seems to help me with pain is rooibos tea (aka red tea).