Testimonial

Chronic Lower Back Pain

'I came to Spinal Rehabilitation Group about 7-months ago. I have been suffering chronic back pain as a result of a motor car accident which occurred in 1990 and a second accident in 1992. At first my back pain was sporadic. Over the years I have received a lot of different forms of treatment but mainly physiotherapy and various forms of massage, all of which have helped over the years.

During 1997 I was sick with glandular fever and my back again flared up with very intense pain into my lower back. The physio diagnosed a disc strain and with therapy my back settled over time. During 1998 whilst working, I again injured my lower back and again went back to the physio, but this time my back did not settle. I eventually received Osteopathy, tried Bowen therapy and finally another physio for over 12-months.

Unfortunately, my back did not improve. The pain had become more intense, increasing to the point that is was affecting my life 24-hours a day. My GP keeps referring me to different physios, but a friend then suggested the Spinal Rehabilitation Group and their unique approach using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. Totally frustrated, I decided to try Spinal Rehab.

The first thing that Dr Hooper organised was an MRI of my lower back. No-one had ever suggested an MRI. The MRI revealed a large prolapsed disc at my L4/5 level compressing my spinal cord and exiting nerves. I also have instability of my L5/S1 disc. Blood test also revealed the presence of glandular fever symptoms were still in my system with blood tests showing that I was still highly reactive consistent with continued chronic infection.

From virtually day one my back has improved! The first thing Dr Hooper recommended was absolutely no manipulation into my lower spine because of the chronic instability. I began Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, acupuncture, vitamin injections and specific medication starting initially three sessions per week. I have now completed the initial phase of my treatment with follow-up MRIs to identify structural changes.

My back has improved considerably. I now have about 95% less pain. Occasionally I may feel a bit stiff but I no longer experience the sharp knife like pain and ache that I was growing accustomed to. I now walk regularly and feel extremely stable.

Treatment with Hyperbaric has not only helped my back, but prior to starting with SRG, I have had a long history of cold cores, sinus problems and chest colds. Since commencing treatment, I have not experienced any of these conditions!!

I have also had a history of 'low bone density' which was initially picked up by my doctor approximately 5-6 years ago. Before staring Hyperbaric I had 2 bone densitometry scans over the years with both identifying underlying low bone density called 'osteopenia' of my lower spine and hip region. The latest bone scan after 7-months of treatment reveals that their has actually been an increase in the bone density with no conclusion of 'osteopenia'.

I am extremely happy with my progress. As my parents have rightly termed - 'you have your life back!'