Guest guest Posted November 4, 2010 Report Share Posted November 4, 2010 -Green wrote: " I thought the purpose of this group was as stated to: A support resource for adults with chronic or acute physical pain problems. Emphasis is placed on helping to cope and " have a life. " " Or how to do things that are hard now that were so easy before one did not think about, like shopping, paying bills or playing with the dog " My problem is my low back. The biggest hurdle in my life is that sitting is very painful so nearly everything I do is standing up or lying down. So I can't go in a car or to any place more than about 200 metres from the house ( which is just other houses). My job and social life collapsed and I became very lonely and depressed. But here are a few positives then. These are things which help me in my life: * I joined a freecycle group locally - instead of throwing something out you offer it around to members of the group for free. Nearly everything, however obscure, finds a home with someone else: buttons, books, beds - you name it. Similarly you can ask around for spare or unwanted things someone else doesn't want anymore. It's done by email, it brings me into contact with the outside world, gives me pleasure and brings people to the door. Even that few minutes contact makes me feel in touch. Everyone is really nice and grateful. And it means my own spending is lower. * I use an iPad - I can email, surf the net, write notes, watch BBC iplayer, look things up in dictionaries, listen to music etc all while lying down or even walking around the house. I can take it into any room with me. It's light and simple to use. Typeface can be made bigger if you need. It's made a huge difference. * I've got the dog used to jumping up onto a windowsill so that I can stroke her ( I can't bend down) * I have a milkman - now he also delivers about a hundred other foodstuffs. The window cleaner is also good for a few minutes chat. * Yes, I have managed to find voluntary work. I explained my limitations. There were only two things on the books I could do at home and they involved a computer and a phone. But the biggest hurdle was my own embarrassment and not wanting people to judge me or label me disabled ( although I am). This lady didn't but was just extremely grateful for my help. Now I wish I had found the courage to do it earlier but I was thinking all the time of what I couldn't do, not what I could. That was MY problem. And she understands that on days when my back pain is very bad I can't do anything. If you told me ten years ago that this is what my life would be today I'd be horrified. I've had years of hell longing to wake up with my old life back. I'm not one of those people who always look on the bright side - not at all. You all have differing problems and as I don 't know most of you yet a lot or all of these things may be useless to you. But if one idea helps one person then it will have been worth sharing them. And I'm sure that out there one of you can come up with something to help me. The kindest of wishes to you all. Annie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 16, 2010 Report Share Posted November 16, 2010 , I have been in chronic pain for over 17 years back pain included. I know how if feels not to be able to sit comfortably. I have many more " problems " also. I think it is wonderful you have found things to keep you occupied. Having pets who love us unconditionally helps us deal with the stress. I was told by my Doctor that water therapy would be a great option for someone with back and leg problems because it is no impact. Swimming, sitting or standing in a hot tub, etc. The hot tub or whirlpool bath is great because the heat and action of the jets relaxes the muscles. The swap club is a wonderful idea. We have really cheap yard sales and wind up just swapping out with everyone. I bet the Ipad is a great help to you. Great idea! I know how embarrassing it is to have to explain that you can't do some things. I find myself having to explain to family who are supposed to know this. I am glad you have found sensitive people who don't look at your problems but the solutions you can bring! Gentle hugs to you. Barbara > Annie wrote: > But here are a few positives then. These are things which help me in my life: > > * I joined a freecycle group locally - instead of throwing something out you offer it around to members of the group for free. Nearly everything, however obscure, finds a home with someone else: buttons, books, beds - you name it. Similarly you can ask around for spare or unwanted things someone else doesn't want anymore. It's done by email, it brings me into contact with the outside world, gives me pleasure and brings people to the door. Even that few minutes contact makes me feel in touch. Everyone is really nice and grateful. And it means my own spending is lower. > > * I use an iPad - I can email, surf the net, write notes, watch BBC iplayer, look things up in dictionaries, listen to music etc all while lying down or even walking around the house. I can take it into any room with me. It's light and simple to use. Typeface can be made bigger if you need. It has made a huge difference. > > * I have got the dog used to jumping up onto a windowsill so that I can stroke her ( I cannot bend down) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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