So, I've had lower back pain nearly my whole adult life. Most of the time, it's just a low-level ache that gets better the more I exercise. Easy right? Just exercise. Occasionally, usually after doing something stupid, it's so painful I can't walk. Fortunately, those episodes don't last long.
I've been to doctors, chiropractors and acupuncturists over the years. Nothing ever seemed to work long term.
I moved to a new address, and registered with a new doctor. After going to a wedding (and sleeping on a marshmallow-soft mattress in the hotel for two nights) and then a long drive home, I had crippling back pain. I asked for an appointment with the new doc, but he was full up that day. "Oh, never mind, come on down after we close anyway, I'll have a look."
Nice, I thought. I got there as early as I could, based on my mobility. He looked me over, did the whole poke and prod, but instead of suggesting pills, he asked me to go and have a CT scan the next morning.
Er, okay, dunno how much it would be but, ok.
Got there early. Parking - no problem. Go to front desk - Hi, come on through. Get into the stylish gown with no back. Lie down, the machine runs up and down for a few minutes. Done.
I go to pay. Nope, medicare covers it. I'm out of the building and driving home *before* my scheduled appointment time.
Surprised, but happy, I head off home and make a followup appointment with my new doc. The doc can see me exactly when I can get there from leaving work on time that day.
At this point, I think the new doc is the second coming. I'm out of pocket less than $12 each time I see him, and he refers to places that bulk-bill.
Go in for my follow up.
Hi - you have arthritis in your lumber spine. I know you're in your mid thirties and walk 30kms a week but it happens occasionally. Don't expect to be able to walk around much after you turn 50.
Yay me.
I've been to doctors, chiropractors and acupuncturists over the years. Nothing ever seemed to work long term.
I moved to a new address, and registered with a new doctor. After going to a wedding (and sleeping on a marshmallow-soft mattress in the hotel for two nights) and then a long drive home, I had crippling back pain. I asked for an appointment with the new doc, but he was full up that day. "Oh, never mind, come on down after we close anyway, I'll have a look."
Nice, I thought. I got there as early as I could, based on my mobility. He looked me over, did the whole poke and prod, but instead of suggesting pills, he asked me to go and have a CT scan the next morning.
Er, okay, dunno how much it would be but, ok.
Got there early. Parking - no problem. Go to front desk - Hi, come on through. Get into the stylish gown with no back. Lie down, the machine runs up and down for a few minutes. Done.
I go to pay. Nope, medicare covers it. I'm out of the building and driving home *before* my scheduled appointment time.
Surprised, but happy, I head off home and make a followup appointment with my new doc. The doc can see me exactly when I can get there from leaving work on time that day.
At this point, I think the new doc is the second coming. I'm out of pocket less than $12 each time I see him, and he refers to places that bulk-bill.
Go in for my follow up.
Hi - you have arthritis in your lumber spine. I know you're in your mid thirties and walk 30kms a week but it happens occasionally. Don't expect to be able to walk around much after you turn 50.
Yay me.
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