This is a good idea. Last summer, out of the blue I started having severe back pain then it started to spasm and I wasn't able after several days to get out of bed. Unemployed, no health insurance. It got so bad a friend called 911 and paramedics took me to hospital where I was kept overnight and a battery of tests were done. I had an ovarian cyst but there was no sign of it having ruptured or any leakage and I Was told it would likely dissipate on its own, but somehow the pain got tangled up with back issues and I've never been the same since. Long story short, I was diagnosed with a spinal disease known as DISH (Difuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperotosis) with IVP (Intervertebral Vacuum Phenomenon) @ L2-3 & L4-5, protuberant anterior osteophytes at all levels from lower thoracic spine to L-4. I was put on Disability where I remain, I applied for SS Disability (for long term) in January and there is yet to be a ruling to that claim. Meanwhile, I have good and bad days, I take a lot of medication when my back spasms or for my arthritis and RA which my body has become racked with. I spent several weeks in bed unable to move but slowly was able to get up and move about. Simple things like cleaning, doing laundry or even driving can be quite painful. Without health insurance it's been difficult to "heal" since I cannot afford PT or any further treatment. I've been seen by several doctors and told the DISH won't ever get better, but that it *can* be managed. I hate taking muscle relaxers and anti inflammatory meds as too much upsets my stomach that then affects my appetite and general well being. I feel a mess most days but take things one day at a time.
Soon I am moving to an apt community where they have whirlpools and a gym and a lovely oasis-type pool area offering twice weekly water aerobics classes which I am really looking forward to as all of these things, in moderation, will greatly help me. I will be in warmer weather as well so the cold weather shouldn't affect my bones and joints as much.
I try to self-"medicate" enjoying warm showers, trying to exercise as often as I'm able with use of a cane and I've had to rely on things like walker, toilet riser, shower chair and use wheelchairs at times which has been difficult to get used to. I fidget a lot as I'm unable to sit, stand or walk for long periods without having to move just to try to remain comfortable. The worst part is dodging people in crowds which is dangerous when it hurts to stand and walk! Waiting in lines is also difficult so I sit down a lot.
A good doctor, physical therapy and exercise are all key. I'd like to hear from others who have had success with water exercises and how it helped them.
I feel for Bono. Back issues and back pain in itself are not fun to deal with.