Sudden Shooting Back Pain - TMS Related?

Hi,

I have been using TMS to recover from arm pains, sciatia, Chronic fatigue and psoriasis and it is wonderful. I already feel so much better and have accepted that these things are TMS related. However, I have recently (as part of getting back to my normal life) started golf again. Over the last 20 years I have suffered on and off with back pain, I would feel tightness or achy there a lot of the time but something, usually a sport, e.g. squash or golf would cause it to give me a jolt of pain followed by a week or so where I could barely walk about due to stiffness. I have had MRI's, X-Rays, physio, chiro, specialist, all the usual but everyone just says there is nothing wrong. I am a perfectionist and put massive pressure on myself to succeed with whatever I do (hence the Chronic fatigue and other issues now). I know this and am changing my life accordingly.

I am wondering though how likely the previous episodes were to be also TMS related? I am trying to build evidence to stop the worry I have that when I play golf, I will hurt myself again. (I know its a slippery slope because I don't want to start a fear/ pain cycle by worrying about something that might happen!).

Thanks for reading.

Brendan

 

Hi Brendan,

I think shooting pain and the debilitating stiffness is certainly a form of TMS, if that is your question. Building confidence around this might be by starting to do some of the same movements with less energy, and working up.

The fear of the spasm is indeed what will likely kick it off. So it is important to work with the fear as you suggest. Knowing that there is nothing truly wrong with you, according to the physician reports might go along way for you.

A more bold approach might be: So what if your back hurts, really?! F--k it and move forward with what you want to do in life, like your sport. Easier said than done, but possible.

Recalling, and writing about ---and remembering in your body the relief and successes you've had with other symptoms will be greatly helpful in my opinion. Write out the moments in first person present tense of the relief and satisfaction, ease in previous successes. "I notice today that I have the energy to complete ____, and this feels really happy for me." etc.

Alan Gordon's program listed at top explores many aspects of our fear about symptoms. Also we have the Structured Education Program, which is free, and has helped many people. Howard Schubiner's Unlearn Your Pain I also highly recommend, with some good meditations included to reduce fear.

Andy

 

Neither did any of us. But as Sarno said "The Human spirit is indomitable". To quote the good Doctor, you should start to return to all activity as soon as you have had a substantial reduction in symptoms. Or as @Andy Bayliss said "Fuck it!". That's what I did. .
I believed the diagnosis and had been better for a week or so... (I was off work, reading the literature non-stop) but I was still in pain.... Then I realized I was walking around a running track. So I ran. The symptoms did not go away... but they also didn't get worse as I was warned they would by the 'system'. That made me smile. I went home and got my weights and never did any of their BS workouts, but went back to the way I worked out before the pain came. I got my Bike out (and fell many times and was OK) I went to the batting cages.

I kept my mind focused on how CONDITIONED I 'd become, and also on any new ANGER I had discovered by self inspection. I was back in full swing in about a month, and have remained so... I turn 55 next month and I still play baseball almost every day. I hit about 150 balls off a tee every day. I wrestle with my dog and have a general good time like any healthy teenager (LOL)

You will know when it's time. It might already be time.

peace

 

Thanks both, I really appreicate you taking the time to get back to me. I played golf yesterday and althought it was a bit scary at first, I just kept telling myself. "I am ok" "I am strong" and I finished the round with no issues (other than a bit of expected tiredness). Already planning my next round!

This TMS is just the unseen destroyer of lives. I know that might sound a bit over the top, but for me, a month ago I was suicidal, thinking I would never be able to work or do my hobbies again, and now I am back running, playing golf and feeling good about myself. Every medical professional NEEDS to know how important the mind-body connection is so people don't have to go years in pain and depression before we finally see a light at the end of the tunnel.

We are getting there but it just seems a damn slow process.

 

I'm in a similar boat trying to get back into golf although my hands don't quite want to cooperate, my right hand is pretty weak right now but i've been planning on heading back to playing pretty soon.

 

Do it! Even if it's only a few holes, just make a start. Maybe even go to a driving range and hit a few balls. Keep telling yourself you can do it. . Don't worry about how good it bad you play. Just enjoy yourself.