Favored way to deal with pain?

Having some back probelms. (Which is an understatement...) But I'm looking for ways to get some kind of "pain management" going. Keep in mind I don't drink, and I don't like taking over the counter drugs if I can help it. (nor illegal ones, come to think of it...)

One of those days that if I were really a dog they'd probably put me down for my own good. *whimper*

Ideas appreciated....

Socks

Deep heat rub and a friend to rub it in. (eg transversain or something like that) (you know the stuuf I mean- a cream or spray that heats the area up when you apply it(but with the spray you miss out on the massage! ) helps relieve things but don't do anything that could strain your back further when using it as you might hurt yourself without realising.

Also try lying on a hard floor with your arms comfotably across your stomach and you legs at a 90 degree angle from your body, try resting them on a chair or something- the main aim is to have the small of your back in contact with the floor. Some people recommend just putting your feet up against your bum when doing this instead, but if you have a hollow back then this won't be enough to get the small of your back on the floor and I find it can put further strain on you as you struggle to keep your legs there. Oh, and put books under your head to support your neck Lie there for 20 minutes and it will help take some strain off your back.

and i'm sure you know not to lift anthing!

hope that helps

Relaxing in the pool also helps me. Not swimming (unless you wish too) but just floating in the water.

I'll try to get the "on the floor" thing. I was thinking of sleeping on the floor tonight. But I'll toss my legs up a bit before the night is over.

Actually, come to think of it, I'll try some "Icy Hot" on there too, that might do something too.

"The secret is hot ice"

Actually, put it on there, didn't feel the "icy" part, but wow it's making me warm now.

Poi ice? No, too silly, I'll go lay on the floor now and watch TV. :P

Pain makes me laugh...odd I know but it deflects the pain and makes it bearable. was originally a defense mechanism now it's automatic (some people think i'm odd) and there's nothing I can do when your laughing pain seems reduced so watch or listen to something funny.