Hi there:

Welcome!!!

I want to wish you well on your upcoming back surgery.

I had bouts of Sciatica that I thought would lay me up for the rest of my life. Some lasted 2 weeks, some lasted 2 months. I remember one episode when I had to grab on to the furniture because I couldn't get out of my bed and walk to the bathroom. It's like the earth changed it's gravity and I weighted 500 lbs. I'll never forget that episode.

Over the years, and I've tried all the lotions, potions, heating pads, ice..etc., well everyone has to find what works for themselves. We all have different backs and different problems.

I'm glad you have the link to the back pain forum. EVERYBODY THERE knows what you feel.

I myself cannot stand ice on my back, in any way shape or form. They tell me, Ice numbs the pain, ice does this, ice does that.

I HATE COLD ON MY BACK. I'll never use it.

I went to a rehab place once because I have pinched nerves, and sciatica, etc. and they immediately sat me down and put this ice thing on my lower back. I wanted to bop someone on the head but she said "leave it there".

After 5 minutes, I moved it. Couldn't stand it. Maybe it's just me, but I really find it hard to believe THAT EVERYONE LIKES ICE ON THEIR BACK.

Now give me the Therawrap thing (or whatever it's called). The thing that activates it's heating thing when you take it out of the pack it's wrapped in. You wrap it around your middle, and the velcro closure thing keeps it secure. I could walk all day when that thing is on me. You are only supposed to wear it for 8 hours or so (at least that's what I remember).

So far, I've been lucky. No major back episodes for awhile. I do wake up stiff as a board and bent over until I get out all the kinks but hey, I'm in my 60's. I'm no Brittany Spears.

So here's wishing you many pain free days ahead.

Take care of yourself.

Melody