I have been in a wheelchair all my life because of Polio. I also have diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy. For the past few years I have had massive pain in the back of my legs and on my backside causing me to shift all the time. It is so uncomfortable, it keeps me up at night. I have been told by doctors that its not a pinched nerve, it is something to do with diabetes and neuropathy, but its not the tingling in my hands and feet I'm used to. The pain is the same as what it would feel like if someone sat on the edge of a table for hours at a time. Has anyone experienced this? If so, does anyone have any ideas on how to alleviate some of this massive discomfort? Thanks for your help

biggermoose,*

I am sorry to hear of your discomfort.* I cannot diagnose, of course, but I have personally dealt with similar symptoms manifest in my clients as a licensed massage therapist, and in my dear husband since he's been afflicteed with Reiter's and CPP.* Especially with your health conditions to consider it is important to be careful of who you trust your body to, but perhaps your physician will have some ideas.* If you are able to alternate hot and cold and do some gentle yoga stretches you may find some relief, but I don't know how bad your symptoms are at this point or how much experience you have with physical therapies.* Do you know any physical therapists who are also licensed massage therapists?* I hope your insurance will help you with this.* When my husband is having a sciatic flare up, I help him do targeted assisted yoga stretches, apply gentle heat, and do several minutes to a couple of hours of massage.* While I can't fix him, sometimes we are able to get his flare up to subside enough to be able to walk and rest more comfortably.* All my best wishes for relief and comfort!

I should also mention that I spent two years working almost exlusively with people with various disabilities, including a few wheelchair bound, though not specifically everything that you are dealing with.**

Hi BiggerMoose,

I'm sorry you are hurting so. It sounds like what I have. I have Sciatica. The pain is in my rump and runs down the back of my leg. It feels like someone keeps kicking me constantly.
Mine is from my herniated discs in my back.
I hope this isn't your problem but it does sound like it to me.
Good luck,
Linda

I also have sciatica and this sounds like it. Be careful if you're shifting and try not to favor sides. I shifted a lot and ended up with bursitis in my right hip. Try one of those donut seats, they aren't comfy but help take pressure off. You should try a gel cushion for your chair, they are pricey but if you have an occupational therapist (or physical) they should be able to order one for you at discount prices.