MobiliserFran's Diary

I have had the mobiliser for approx 16 months now and still use it every day. I may only use it once a day now rather than two but that really depends on if I have exercised that day or not. For example, if I have been to yoga in the evening, I may not feel like I need to use the mobiliser as well.

The mobiliser allows me to get though flare ups and bad patches, sometimes without the need for medication. In the past if I had a flare up I would have reached for pain killers. Now, 16 months on I will go on the mobiliser. I'm not saying that it is a replacement for medication in all circumstance but I do feel that it can take ‘the edge' of pain and therefore you can quite often get though without taking tablets. This has made a huge difference to my life. In fact, I would say I think about pin killers a lot less and only really use them now when all else has failed.

I have also become an addict at Bikram Yoga. This yoga class is taken in a sauna. The combination of heat and stretching proves unbeatable. I think this combined with the mobiliser at home have really shaped my life in the last year for the better.

Fran's initial situation

I hurt my back in July 2000 when I was 20 years old in a work accident. Since I was a little girl I had always dreamed of working in fashion as a buyer and after finishing university I started work as a buyer's assistant. The job involved a lot of heavy lifting and moving of clothes but I didn't care - I was just happy to be in my dream role. During my second week I was asked to fetch a number of coats from the sample cupboard. I had to use a ladder to reach them and as I twisted awkwardly to the side I felt a sudden stab of pain in my lower right back. That evening I got progressively worse and by bedtime I couldn't do anything without feeling extreme pain. I got down to the floor, laid flat on my back and didn't dare move.

The next day my doctor declared me unfit for work and signed me off sick for two weeks. He said I had pulled muscles in my lower back and I was not to lift or bend until better. I was given painkillers and advised to try physiotherapy. Two weeks passed by and my symptoms didn't improve. I started to get really frustrated with the whole situation. During the following weeks I began to panic - I was attending physio twice a week, using heat therapy, and keeping as active as possible but my mobility was not retuning and the pain continued.

Over the next six months I saw various consultants and had numerous tests – X-rays, Isotope bone scans, MRI's... I saw Osteopaths, Acupuncturists, Chiropractors, Massage therapists.... In fact, I tried anything and everything advised by doctors and friends to relieve my pain but it was so extreme that some days I would just break down in tears. I was told I had severe inflammation and that in time I would get better. The best thing to do was to keep active – swim, take Pilates classes and walk when possible. I joined a gym and went whenever I could and just hoped things would go back to normal.

I was moved to another department at work. A desk job so that I no longer had any manual handling of clothes. But I found this only made matter worse as sitting for any length of time aggravated my pain further and I would go home in a state of shock for it all. In the days I was taking pain killers to get though work. In the night I was going to the gym so that I would be ready for the next day. I wasn't sleeping as I couldn't get comfy. I stopped seeing friends so that I wouldn't have to sit down in bars or restaurants and became very withdrawn. I found life at home very hard; everything from washing my hair to cooking food became a difficult chore and seemed to hurt my back further. In fact, everything now revolved around my back. I felt like I couldn't cope any longer and my local doctor put me on anti depressants. These of course lifted my mood but didn't take the underlying problem away.

In 2001 I began to suffer with pins and needles in my right ankle. I want to see neurologist who explained my nerves were trapped from the inflamed joints in my back. This was the start of my sciatic pain which I still have today my in my legs and feet. I couldn't believe it - I was now in more pain then when the accident first happened. Sciatic pain can be very difficult to treat and in some respects I have found this worse then the actual back pain. I have tried all sorts of different treatments; facet joints injections, nerve drugs and sports massage to name a few, but the pain can be so niggling and sharp, at times, it can literally take your breath away.

As the years have passed I have learnt ways to help alleviate my pain but they are only short term fixes. Some weeks I feel like I've made improvements but then suddenly, for what appear to be no reason, I'll have a relapse and I'm back to square one. It's like a never ending nightmare that I'm trapped in.

My days now follow quite a set routine which I started in 2002. In the mornings I always have a hot bath and spend 30 mins stretching at home. I have a mat and ball set up in the lounge and even on the coldest of days I drag myself out of bed early to do them. I find this helps set me up for the rest of the day and if I don't do it, not only do I feel ten times worse, but I feel incredibly guilty. During the day I use a mixture of things to help me. I use a TENS machine for one hour three times a day, muscle rub cream and I take codeine and diclofenic. I hate taking drugs but this mix works for me and without them I just can't cope.

I kept my desk job until last year. Colleagues got used to me in the end but at first they thought I was nuts. I would stand up as much as possible, forever stretching down to my toes or up in the air. If I didn't have to sit down, for example, when using the phone, I wouldn't. I would be like a yo-yo, up and down all day, making excuses to go to another dept just so I could get away from my desk etc... Evenings would then be spent at the gym or at home lying on the floor with a heat pad strapped to my back while my partner cooked dinner. I only socialise when I have to and I'm forever making up excuses. I hate it and miss my friends but the thought of making me sit any more then I have to makes me feel physically sick. I'm just so lucky to have such loyal friends that knew me before the accident and it's not my fault.

Last year I attended a NHS Pain management Course for 3 weeks, especially for chronic pain sufferers. I was the youngest person on it (I'm only 27 now) and it made me realise, even though I'm in pain I have my whole life ahead of me. The course really helped my confidence and afterwards I had the courage to quit my job. My partner and I went away for a few months. Something I would never have considered before because of the flights involved. I arrived home 3 weeks ago and I'm now determined to look for a new line of work which compliments my back pain and not makes it worse. I have no idea what I'm going to do but I'm sick of being unhappy and I want to change my life. I'm hoping that using the Mobiliser will be my first in many small steps to freedom.

Fran's Daily diary

Day 1 1/8/06 PM
My first go on the Mobiliser at home is technically my second go that day - I tried it in the Back in Action shop this morning and so I know what to expect.

I've decided that in the evenings I want to go on last thing before bed. I have trouble sleeping with my pain and I'm hoping this may help me. I'm nervous to go on again at first. After this morning (my first go) I felt extremely sore and my flexibility seemed to decrease rather than increase. However, I know this is probably, a temporary reaction and the more I use the Mobiliser, I'm hoping this will cease.

When I first get on, ironically after all the worry, i feel fairly relaxed this time. I really like the feeling on my lower legs, but as with this morning, when it hits my lower back I find myself gritting my teeth in pain. I notice my upper backs also feeling sore (I never have problems with my upper back) too. The 15 mins seems to go on forever and for the last few minutes I'm counting down on the clock as I want to get off.

When the cycle is finished, I have to admit that i don't feel as sore as when I first got off this morning, I'm hoping that's a good first sign.

Day 2, 2/8/06 AM
As soon as I wake up this morning I head for the Mobiliser. As with my night routine, I have decided to go on before I do anything else to start the day.

After a couple of minutes I'm relieved to say I feel a bit more relaxed then yesterday. I physically notice my shoulders untensing and it suddenly dawns on my that I've been holding myself rigid on the previous goes before as I'm scared of the pain. I'm really glad I've noticed this - its only natural for me to be apprehensive of the Mobiliser but if I don't let myself relax its never going to work. I make a mental note to sink into the machine and let it get to work.

My lower back still hurts when the roller moves over that part, but I'm really surprised to find that my upper back, as with yesterday feels even worse. I feel like its all bruised and I can't help wincing a little bit.

However, the 15 mins goes a lot quicker then yesterday and the whole experience seems a lot less traumatic.

Day 2, 2/8/06 PM
I've had a fairly bad pain day today. Since this morning I've had upper back and neck pain and I have a headache. (I don't know if this is to do with the Mobiliser or just a coincidence as I have had to do alot of computer work) However, I have to admit, my lower back hasn't seemed as stiff today and I'm pleased with that.

The first few minutes on my Mobiliser are still uncomfortable on my lower and upper back areas but I realise about halfway though the treatment, that my mind has wandered on to other things. I'm not just laying thinking about when the treatment will end as I have previously. This is a good sign for me as it means that I'm finding it more bearable.

Near the end I notice my calves are feeling pretty sore too now and I guess they are not used to being massaged.

Day 3 PM
I am really looking forward to the Mobiliser tonight. Its been a long day -I am looking for a new job so I have spent a lot of time hunched over either the internet or a newspapers looking. My back is not very happy with me at all ! So I am really looking forward to a massage to stretch me out before bed. My neck, upper back and head are still sore although the headache is tailing off.
The programme feels very familiar to me now.I know where the rollers are going next and I feel much more relaxed. My legs are feeling less sore tonight but my lower and upper back still feel the same. My upper back almost feels like it needs cracking or releasing.
My friend, a personal trainer has come round and I let her have a go. She finds it feels quite strong at first but immediately gets into it. She says it's very relaxing- I think she'll be round more often now!

Day 4 AM
I am straight on the Mobiliser as usual. I think my upper back feels a little less sore as the roller goes over it this morning. It's a real relief as it was the most uncomfortable part of the programme. It's hard to tell if the Mobiliser is having any effect on my daily pain or not so I have decided to keep a pain scale each day form 1-10 (10 being the worst pain). I think this will help me monitor what's happening mroe closely and I am hoping at the end of the 2 months I will be able to see the imprvements. Today I am a 6. I also have bad sciatica in my left leg too.Sitting on the internet looking for jobs wont be helping that either.

Day 4 PM
I am really looking forward to the Mobiliser tonight. I normally go swimmming or to pilates every other day but because we have just moved into a new house and I am job hunting I have been really side tracked; I havent been for 4 days now. Normally if I dont go not only do I feel really guilty but also really panicked as I know it means worse pain. However my pain is still at a fairly manageable level and I am assuming it is because the Mobiliser is keeping the pain at bay. The Mobiliser is really useful as even though I can't exercise I know I am doing something positive for my pain each day. I am determined to get back into an exercise routine next week.

Day 5 AM
My pains got worse today. 7 out of 10. Firstly, I still haven't been swimming so I know this is the main reason. Secondly, I had a couple of drinks last night. My pains always worse after this, I think it's the dehydration makes inflammation worse. I wake up with sciatica in both legs and can hardly bend forward. Straight to the Mobiliser. The routine feels very sore, more like when I first started. It does get better as the programme goes on and I can feel myself relaxing

Day 5 PM
My pain levels have dropped back to a 6. I have a really quiet day, I only leave the house once as my sciatica is bad and it hurts to walk. I have a quiet night in with my tens machine and codeine! Probably not the normal Saturday night for a 27 year old! I have to laugh though or I would only cry! Mobiliser before bed feels less sore then this morning but still uncomfortable

Day 6 AM
Slept fairly well last night but still wake up with sciatica in both legs. My pains still at a 6 . I notice my neck is feeling less sore today as its hurt quite a bit since starting the Mobiliser and I'm hoping that will be the end of that phase.

Day 6 PM
I'm finding the Mobiliser less sore on my lower back now, I noticed this morning but didn't know if it was a one off. When the roller goes over, I'm not gritting my teeth at all. Although I'm finding it hard to see if I'm making progress in general, its nice to see I'm not finding the actual machine more comfortable. To me, it means I must be getting a bit more flexible

Day 7 AM
Really bad nights sleep last night. My legs just felt dead all night. Got up to take more pain killers in night but still no luck. I'm really tired this morning but it's a new week and I'm supposed to start swimming again today. Will force myself to go or it just turns into a vicious circle. My pains a seven this morning. The Mobiliser still feels less sore on my lower back.

Day 7 PM
Have been swimming today and feel much more at ease now. its amazing how much difference exercise can make. I feel much more flexible and just calmer in myself. I go on the Mobiliser and have to admit it feels less painful on my upper and lower back then usual which is great.

Day 8 AM
The Mobiliser feels sore again on my lower and upper back. But I'm always stiffest in the morning and I think it will decrease by tonight go again. I'm going to Pilates this morning to keep up with the exercise routine. I'd say my pains dropped back to a 5, so good improvements on yesterday.

Day 8 PM
I haven't been to pilates for a while so I felt a bit sore this afternoon but I feel pleased with myself for going to the gym again. I've had people over for dinner tonight but going on the Mobiliser when they leave really helps me to unwind. Its a great device to have at home and really helps in time of need. Its a little sore on my back but much less then this mornings session.
Summary so far...

I've now had the Mobiliser for 8 days. I've had little routine in my life this last week (moving to new flat and looking for work) so its hard to see easily how the Mobiliser affects me. However, number one, I have done a lot less exercise than normal and my pain has stayed within a manageable limit which is a good sign. Number 2, this last couple of days I've seen a real improvement in the pain I get when actually ashing the Mobiliser. At first it was nearly unbearable on my lower and upper back. Now even though still uncomfortable in the morning session, I'm finding the evening session very enjoyable. These are both good signs for me.

Day 9 PM
I decided to use the weights on my legs this evening to get a deeper massage. I only used one lot. At first I put them on my upper legs but this seemed to cause alot more strain in my lower back. I then tried them on my lower legs. This seemed alot better for my back. I could really feel the difference it made to the massage - it felt so much deeper on my calves. However, half way though the session my legs were sore so I took them off. Will keep trying each time and may start experimenting with the softening pad.

Stefan had back ache today and went on just before me. He felt looser immediately. Its amazing to see how someone with relatively little back pain can benefit so much so quickly form the Mobiliser.

Day 10 AM
I decided to take off the softening pad this morning and lie directly on the base of the Mobiliser for a deeper massage. I've been on 20 times now and wanted to start trying things out. Actually went very well. I was expecting it to really hurt but actually it didn't. Towards the end of the 15 mins my bums feeling quite sore but all in all I quite liked it. The heat feels a lot stronger too which I really liked.

PM
Again, went on without the softening pad and it was fine. Unless I'm feeling really bad I think I'll always use it like this now. My legs got really bad again. It was feeling a bit better after swimming and pilates and so I've been walking quite a bit more then usual. Now it hurts like before. I always do this - overdo it when I feel o.k. Now I'm going to have to start over and take it easy again for a few days so I'm really annoyed. Because it quite hurts I've decided not to use the leg weights again. Maybe I'll look at these next week.

Day 11 AM
I've really enjoyed the Mobiliser this morning. I read the manual in depth last night and this morning I've been using the local settings. These are great. You can stop them at any point and then it massages only that area until you move it on. I really liked being able to control this. I still worked on most areas but its nice to keep going in one place until you feel a release and then move on. I'd say my pains a 5 today, not bad as I didn't swim yesterday.

Day 11 PM
Used the set program tonight for ease as I was tired. its nice to use when you don't want to think about it and also I don't want to get too set on areas that I think hurt the most as it may unbalance other areas. The only thing I wouls say I've noticed this not using the softening pad is that it really hurts the buttock area. As a fairly slim girl or what stefan describles as 'boney' it hurts on your sitting bones. But apart from that I think its all going pretty well.
I must of mis-read that. I have been changing it in the morning. This has been working well for me and I think that's for two reasons. Number one, I'm a morning person (as in much more alert) so I'm happy to spend time playing around with it. In the evening I always end the day feeling exhausted and so I'm much happier to just press program and enjoy without having to think. Secondly, I think it because I'm at my stiffest in the morning so it's really nice to be able to work on certain areas for longer (as in my lower back and upper legs) if they need it. I'm going to stick to this routine for now but if you want me to swap to see if it makes any difference, let me know

Day 12 AM
I'm still really enjoying using the different settings on the Mobiliser The 'local points' setting really helped this morning. I was feeling really stiff (I normally do in the mornings) but I found holding the point over my lower back and legs for longer helped it release so much more. My pain's still at about a five today. A very strange thing happened to me though - I didn't feel the need to have a bath this morning (something I've been doing since my back first hurt for the heat). I think the Mobiliser helping me loosen up as not only does it massage but it heats up too, so I don't feel the need after. It's great being able to just hop in the shower today instead (and a lot more back friendly!)

PM
Just used the Programme setting tonight. I'm always so tired before bed so it's just really nice to let the programme run itself and not mess around with it. I nearly feel asleep on it tonight.

Stefan, my partner went on after me. He's really enjoying being able to go on every so often just as a pick me up

Day 13 AM
I couldn't sleep at all last night. I'm so worried because i can't find a job. So this morning I'm feeling more stiffer and irritable then the last few days. I decided to put the softening pad back on so it's not so intense. But i still play around with the settings and do a little extra work on my upper legs until they feel happier. I'd say my pains at a 6 this morning but I'm going swimming later which will help

Day 13 PM
I tried the use the weights on my legs tonight but I'm not getting on with them. They put extra pressure on my groin, knee and lower back. So I think I'll leave them.

Day 14 AM
I'd say my pains at a five today so not bad. Have put the softening pad away now - I don't think I'll be using it again unless something bad happens. I feel fine without! After this I'm going for nhs physio on my groin so will see what they say and tell them about the Mobiliser

Day 14 PM
We went to Brighton to met friends today - the longest I've sat on a train for some time. Then we sat having lunch for a couple of hours so I was really sore. I was just so excited on the way home as I knew I could go on the Mobiliser. Normally I'd just go and lay on the bed all night to recover but I went on the Mobiliser when I got home (instead of before bed) and then got on with the rest of the night! it doesn't take my pain away but it does just take the edge off it and I can then carry on.

Day 17 AM
I am going to work today ( I have work experience at the bbc) so it will be my first day sitting at a desk for a while. On the Mobiliser I pay particularl attention to rolling over my lower back to make sure it is as loose as possible and then do a longer than normal stretching session. My pain is about a 5. So let's wait and see how we get on.

Day 15 PM
I came home so sore it was actually a lot worse than I expected. I suppose not only am I not used to it, but it was really intense and i didnt mocve from my desk all day. I came home and my pain was a 9. I took pain killers went on the Mobiliser straight way and then went to bed. I didn't sleep a wink, and was still up at 2am stretching and taking more painkillers. I was tempted to go on the Mobiliser again but not sure if it is allowed?

Day 18 Am
Got up early this morning. i have not been having baths (showers instead) in the morning the last couple of weeks as the Mobiliser has been a good replacement for heat and mobility. Today however I go back to all three (Mobiliser bath and stretches).By the time I leave the house my back feels pretty good and my pain is a 5 again.I have also noticed my leg pain has been feeling better so I am going to try and start using leg weights for a deeper massage.

PM
I went swimming on the way home and by the time I get back I feel much better than the previous evening. However I am so tired I actually forgot to go on the Mobiliser ( the first time this has happened). I woke up in the middle of the night and remembered. I will be able to see if it makes a difference today.

19 AM
Luckily, It didn't make any difference (not going on led Mobiliser last night) and I feel the same. I suppose I'd probably need to miss a couple or more sessions to really feel it. It's actually quite a relief as I know if I miss it again it won't get worse. I've been going on it so religiously though I doubt I'll miss it again. I was going to start the leg weights but my legs hurts again! I think I'll never get to try them at this rate!

19 PM
Tonight I don't get home until midnight. I've been at a friends house and even though I'm tired, I still go on. I didn't know how I'd feel as I've had a couple of drinks! I thought it might feel like being on a boat or something! But it's fine and I nearly actually feel asleep

20 AM
My back's a bit worse. But I know it's because I was drinking last night and that always seems to do it. I'm probably at about a six today pain wise. The Mobiliser is such a normal part of my morning routine now I think I shall be very sad when it goes. Not having to sit in a bath for 20 mins to loosen up each day has made a big difference to me. I'd prefer to be on the Mobiliser any day!

20 PM
My backs still sore so I do an extra length of time over my lower back. Stef also goes on tonight. He's had a bit of back ache himself and it's just helping to loosen it off.

21 AM
I've had a bit of a replase with my leg and I'm finding it hard to get out the house. it's so frustrating as I just can't control it. I'm stocking up on painkiller and I'm just glad I have the Mobiliser here as at least that's something positive. My leg pains at a 8, my backs still a 5.

21PM
I agreed to work tomorrow and I know from experience that I'm nor going to be better. But I go on the Mobiliser and cross my fingers as you never know.

22AM
Feeling no better and can't go to work. feel terrible at letting people down but when my legs bad I find it hard to walk. Don't think i'll be going far today so another day of stretches and Mobiliser and pain killers

22PM
Syated in all day and rested my leg. Its feeling easier already so hopefully it will be better by monday to go to work. tonight I read the Mobiliser guide again and decided to move the head pillow because i am getting on so well without the softening pad.

23 AM
I really like not having the head pillow on. Before I didn't really feel much in my neck but now it is obviously a lot stronger and it is really enjoyable. My leg is back to about a 6 so i am going swimming this morning.

23PM
I was so tired tonight I wasn't going to go on the Mobiliser but I started feeling really guilty and went on about half an hour later. I am really glad I did; when i go on it is always really nice. I feel guilty not going on it when I know it helps. It would be strange to not have it in my life now.

24AM
All going well without the head pad. I've put the softening pad away now as I haven't touched it all week. When I think back to when I first used the Mobiliser and how much it hurt! When I think about it that way, I'm more aware of how my bodys changed. because it doesn't hurt now I feel I must be more flexible

PM
Stef's backs been hurting - he's been helping his dads business o has been driving a van. I'm having to fight to get on the Mobiliser tonight!

I would say I'm using my pain killers in a different way to before. When my pains bad then I have to take them regardless of what I do. However, on days where my pain is at a level I can cope with I my not take them now. For example, I used to get up and take my pain killers pretty much straight away. Now I get up and go on the Mobiliser. If that makes me feel better I may not take them until lunch time. The same happens at night time. So, on a whole, I would say I can now cut out some medicine on certain days.

I would be happy to come to Marlow and see Ann. Stefan is away until Monday and it is his mother's car we use. Let me contact you again on Monday with a list of dates that we can borrow the car. Hopefully one of these will match a day where Ann can fit me in.

Thanks

25 AM
I tried using the leg weights this morning as my leg feels a bit better as I'm walking better. it's o.k, but I can feel the strain in my lower back so only keep it on for half the time

25PM
Try the leg weights again but take off pretty much straight away. maybe I'll just try them one time a day. maybe two times is a bit much

26AM
My lower backs sore today so i did some extra local work over that area. Off to pilates this morning which i'm looking forward to

26PM
Saw my mum today and she asked me if the Mobiliser is helping. I said i feel a lot more calmer knowing I have it on hand. I think it helps me mentally quite alot. I think it helps me to reduce pain killers too. if it takes the edge of the pain I can do without my tablets. its nice to feel more in control

27am
Tried the leg weights again today. one of the main problems I find is actually lifting the weight on. its quite heavy and I normally lay down, with the weight to the side and then drag it over my legs. maybe another way of doing this would be better? I'm not sure but I just can't get the hang of them! I kept them on for half the session again.

27pm
As with the last few times i go on now, i just relax in my evening go and don't play with the buttons or weights

28am
Again, did half the program with the leg weights and half without. I also has some extra time with the rollers just on my lower back again as I have a real knot in my right side. Felt better after. Didn't take my pain medication tonight as I felt o.k.

28pm
Went swimming today so pain levels are pretty good. Again, didn't take my pain killers.

29am
Took my pain killers this morning but have had some patches in the last week ro so when I haven't. if the Mobiliser takes the edge of my pain I can get through which is great for me.

29pm
Stef and I we're talking today about the reduction in tablets I'm taking and we also noticed that I use my tens machine a little less.

30am
Saying that about the Tens machine has jinxed me! I have terrible back pain today and strong sciatica in both legs. I'm not sure what's brought it on so badly but I take my pain killers this morning and then after the Mobiliser head for the swimming pool. This is always a catch 22 as when the sciatica is bad, it's hard to walk, but you have to force yourself and then it gets better.

30pm
The back pain has eased off slightly. Have lived for my back today and have spent most of the day drugged up and stretching or in a bath. But it seems to be helping. Fingers crossed the sciatica will die down which is always the worst pain of all as the pain killers don't help it.

31am
I slept badly (from the pain) but its better today. Straight on the Mobiliser as usual. I use the leg weights for half the time on my upper legs to try and get into the sciatica. No swimming today

32pm
Again, use the leg weights to help the sciatica although only for a few mins tonight as I just find them too heavy. I wonder is they make lighter weights for people like me? Sometimes I would like some weight but these ones are too much.

33am -35am I went away this weekend and didn't come back until the Monday morning. it's the first time I haven't used the Mobiliser for two days (I've only missed it twice so far) so it felt very odd. I must say I missed it as it didn't feel the same not being able to relax out after a day. It made the mornings tougher as well and had to stretch for a lot longer.

35pm
Went to see David and Ann Redgrave today. David checked my movements against how I was the first day I took the Mobiliser home. it looks good as I'm a little more flexible in my movements. This was a shock for me

Ann suggested some further tests for my back which I didn't know existed and I got quite emotional. it took me 2.5 hours to get home, I got four wrong tubes which I have never done in the whole time I have lived in London (9 years)so I was quite stressed out by the time I went home. After all that I went straight to bed and then got up at 11 to go on the Mobiliser, mainly as I had such bad sciatica in my left leg.

36am
Back to the Mobiliser as usual! I'm glad to get back to the routine. For now I use the weights again for half the time to try and help the sciatica. David's suggested taking some of the sand out of the weights to make them lighter. I have not looked into this yet but hoe to this weekend.

36pm
I went swimming today which helped the sciatica. After the Mobiliser has finished it's time tonight I stayed on for an extra 8 mins concentring on my lower back and legs. I'm not sure if this is allowed but I really just wanted to keep going and shift the rest of the sciatica. I turned the heat off though as I got quite hot!

37am
My sciatica's quite bad at the moment so after using the programme setting for 5 mins or so to loosen up I used the local setting on my lower back and upper legs. I tried the weights (still full weight) over my lower back today. I've not tried this before but as I've been finding it too heavy for my legs I thought I'd give it a go. it wasn't too bad and defiantly made the massage more intense.

37pm
Tried the same as this morning. Stayed on for 20 mins tonight with extra time on my upper legs. I'm hoping if I spend more time on my upper legs, they might increase some flexibility along with my stretches I do.

38am
I was out the house by 6am this morning for an early pilates class so I actually went on at lunch time instead. I wasn't up in time to go on before hand! This actually worked quite well for me as I knew I wouldn't be going on tonight. Today we're at a wedding, we won't be home till 1am ish and I know I'll have drunk a few drinks which I don't think will be good on the Mobiliser!

38pm
When we got home i did think about going on the Mobiliser as i was so sore but decided that I'd probably be sick! had a lot to eat and drink! So I settled for a bath (yes, it was 1.30am but needs must) which helped and I slept o.k. it's always hard when you drink as i don't like to take an of my pain killers.

39am
very stiff and sore this morning! went on the Mobiliser at 7am but just did an all over program - far too tired to try anything more exciting!

39pm
Thank goodness for the Mobiliser - I've been so sore I can't really walk so at least i can go on again tonight. It was really my lower back and legs i did for the whole 15mins to try and get the relief. stef comments that my Mobiliser sessions are getting longer and longer! I do keep adding 5 mins here and there so i guess they are!

40am
My friends having trouble with her back at the moment so has been round to use the Mobiliser. she's a personal trainer and went on without the mat so it was a deeper massage. she made a good point about how it hurts when it goes over the bones. This is true, it is sore but I have got quite used to that now. Its really the sitting bones and the top of the pubic bone at the back. I wonder if men find this too? we're both fairly slim build so maybe we can feel it more? worth looking into.

40pm
I tried sitting up a little bit today, I thought it might give a deeper massage for my sciatica. I'm not sure if it made any difference but worth a try.

41am
Tried sitting up again for a bit built have decided I don't think it does make any difference. Laid back down and put the weights over my abdominal area to press me down more. Much more comfortable then sitting up!

41pm
Have been to pilates tonight so I'm already feeling quite loose for me. I haven't taken any pain killers today and shouldn't have to now as I'm going on the Mobiliser now.

42am
Woke up this morning and managed to slice my finger open cutting a lemon! I've never seen so much blood and realised quite quickly that I needed to go to hospital. I was on my own, was a nightmare trying to get clothes on! Someone really nice helped me all the way on the bus and I was seen straight away for stitches! No time for the Mobiliser before any of that! I went on at lunch time when I got back instead. As I said the other day, I quite like going on at lunch time. I started thinking I could split the sessions up into 3 times a day. However, when I go back to work I won't be able to do this so have decided it would be a pointless exercise to try

42pm
Day 42 now! It's going so quickly, I'm already starting to panic about the Mobiliser being taken away

43am
I stay on for 25 mins today. My sciatica bad so I really focus on specific areas. My friend tries the Mobiliser again today with the mat and feels much better....I think\she's going to be coming around for more cups of tea from now on! I have friends staying who are all intrigued and watch me as I go on. It's funny as it makes me realise how comfortable I find the Mobiliser now - when I first had there would be no way I would be able to chat happily at the same time!

43pm
Where all going out tonight so I make an effort to go on before leaving as I know we'll et home late. This is good actually as I know we'll be sitting down in the bar foe a while and it makes me feel less nervous.

44am
Go on at 7am as soon as I wake up. I'm trying not to take pain killers too much at the moment so I go on again at 11 to keep it all at bay. I don't take any. Then I use my tens machine in the afternoon to bridge the gap until tonight

44pm
Still not taken any pain killers but after Mobiliser I go to bed and wear a heat patch on my back so that I can sleep.

45am
Have made it through without painkillers! Not bad as I went out day 43pm and normally the next day is always too bad to handle without them. I'm going to Pilates tonight to keep trying to ward it all off so we shall see what happens.

45pm
Oh dear! What a disaster! This afternoon I brake my 2nd toe on my left foot! I am such a wombat, I have no idea how I managed it! It's swollen, bruised and sort of bending the wrong way so defiantly broken as I have done it before! I can't walk very well so haven't left the house.

46am
My god, I'm so stiff! I know it's because I am hopping around and it's putting my back out so try to start putting my foot down on the floor. Take painkillers and then wait 30 mins for them to kick in before using the Mobiliser. Don't think I could of faced it without them today.

46pm
My toes really swollen! What an idiot I am! Unfortunately, doing something like this is more annoying for the pain it causes in my back then anything else! Today, I am so thankful for the Mobiliser as I can't get out and this is when my back gets the worse.

47am
Last night I ended up taking diazepam as well as my codeine and diclofenic. I rarely do this, only when I feel my back is going to 'go' as it were and I am desperate. I just know when, I can't explain it but you just know. So last night and this morning has been rest for 30 mins, stretch, back to rest, stretch.... This will continue until my back settles. I'm far too scared to go on the Mobiliser this morning as its down on the floor and no one is home. If I get on the floor I may not be able to get up so I leave it.

47pm
Felling much better. Have carried on with rest/stretch all day and reading Sarah Keys Back Bible to focus my mind. My toes less swollen and I am walking on it a bit more so strap it up so I can get on. Go on the Mobiliser, still home alone but feel much more confident. I'm glad I did and back feels 10 times better then last night.

48am
Off the diazepam and take only half a codeine and diclofenic. After the Mobiliser I strap toe up and walk to shops. It's great to get out! At lunch time I take no pain killers. Yippee! I feel much more awake! Stick a heat pad on instead and that's fine.

48pm
When I used to have a bad episode it could of last for weeks. I find these days I can turn them around in a matter of a week as I just know what to do. This bad episode as literally only been two days and so that's really short. I realise, this is one of the best times to have the Mobiliser. I think the beauty of it is for people who are truly trapped at home. The psychological benefits on knowing you are helping yourself when you're incapable of even walking down the road are so immense. I really believe the psychological effects of the Mobiliser for someone with chronic pain sometimes even out weigh the physical benefit's a times like this

49am
Walking o.k. now and back is really easing off! No pilates for me as you really need your toes in pilates so I'm getting the bus to the swimming pool after the Mobiliser. Backs feeling better so go back to my routine of putting the weights on top of me for half of the Mobiliser session. Glad to be getting back into it all!

49pm
I'm going to the cinema tonight! This is very rare for me. The thought of being trapped sitting down for 2 hours is horrible. So I plan it carefully. I go on the Mobiliser for ten mins before hand, use my tens machine whilst watching the film and then go back on the Mobiliser when I get home for ten mins! Feeling pretty good and happy this evening! My toes back to normal size but its sort of purple and looking horribly bent. Gross and I'm sure you didn't want to know that either!!

50am
Backs feeling o.k. and so is toe etc...so all good today. Use the Mobiliser as usual but go on for 25 mins this morning as I have sciatica quite bad. Trying to get a knot out and relieve it a little bit. There's a complementary health show on at Excel, London today and I want to go at see if they have any thing for backs. I'm going on my own and I think I have got braver lately as went I went to the back show months ago, I wouldn't of gone on my own.

50pm
Went to the show and go on the Mobiliser as soon as I get home rather then last thing at night as feeling quite stiff. At the show they had another type of lay down Mobiliser - I have not seen another one before so decided to try it out for 5 mins. It wasn't the same at all but of course didn't tell them that. It wasn't very strong and I don't think it would do very much at all as you could hardly feel it.

51am
My friend has asked me to go on a course (to do with fashion, same as my degree) to Canada with her but I say no as I'm worried about not having the Mobiliser. Wouldn't be able to take it as I can't carry anything but she would help with my bag. I'm used to having it at the moment and would be really worried about what would happen when I stop using it - I try not to think about it.

51pm
Stef tried to get me to go to Canada - the women doing the course is really good. But I'm too scared to go. I've been swimming today and back feels o.k. so use the sand bags for the whole time to try and help sciatica. Don't normally use them for the whole time so I'm pleased with this.

52am
Try the weights again this morning for the whole time, use them on my legs and then move them up to my lower back and then upper back. Would be quite good to get the other weights out and try them at the same time as not tried this yet.

52pm
Get one lot of weights on but trying to get the 2nd lot on as well is just too heavy! I'm such a weakling!! But it was worth a try.

53am
Have agreed to go to Canada. It's a once in a life time opportunity and I should take it. The worst thing that can happen is that without the Mobiliser my back gets really bad and I have to come home. It's only six hours away so I can get back if I really need to. I am really terrified already. Go on the Mobiliser for two times, I have no idea why but it makes me feel a bit better.

53pm
Back feels bad but I know it's only because I'm scared about Canada. What will happen if I don't use the Mobiliser for ten consecutive days? It's a bit odd as I didn't use it for years before of course but I can't seem to remember that any more. I feel like I have used it for years now even though I haven't. No sand bags tonight as I'm too stiff.

54am
I've had a good go on the Mobiliser this morning. You wouldn't think by day 54 I'd find something new! If I'm using the local method, I normally use the top rollers on my lower back and the lower rollers on my lower legs. Today I used the whole 15 mins with the top rollers on my shoulders and bottom rollers on my lower back. I rarely do this as I see my lower back and legs as my trouble spots. However, I thought it was really good and really enjoyed it. My shoulders quite often get neglected and it made for a really nice change to give them 15 mins of TLC.

54pm
I'm quite nervous about Canada so quite sore. I went on before bed but at about 3am woke up with bad sciatica. Tried stretching ands then at 4am went on the Mobiliser. Much better and got back to sleep without any drugs so very pleased

55am
Went on Mobiliser today with local method working on shoulders and lower back again. This morning I used the weights on my upper body to increase the massage into the shoulders, really nice, much easier then putting the weights on the legs for me

55pm
Going to Canada tomorrow so feeling really scared and my back hurts from packing my bag and bending over. I went on at lunch time as well today to keep me topped up and have just been to pilates to prepare. The hotel where we are staying has a pilates and swimming centre next door, How lucky is that?! So I'm hoping to go everyday.

56am
I'm off today! I went on the Mobiliser first thing at 7am but I intend to go on at 11am again before my taxi arrives. I'm so sad to be leaving it behind - this probably sounds quite sad I suppose! I have really got used to having it in my routine and it's such a mental crutch for me to know its on hand when I need it. I've also enjoyed not taking as many drugs and I don't want to have to go back to that. It's really nice not to feel so tired and sluggish all the time

Right, I'm off, I'll be back in ten days but I'll try and write from Canada and let you know how it feels to have a break from the Mobiliser.

57 am and pm
Back from Canada today. have a cup of tea when i get home, then straight on the Mobiliser. Stay on for 40 mins working on knots all over the place. Don't want to get off! same in the evening! Going away has been hard, I've only had limited exercise so the amount of pain killers, ten machine work and sleepless nights has really increased for me. i'm looking forward to hopefully cutting pain killers back again now I'm home.

! Nice to be back. One thing I've noticed after a break from the mob...(apart from being really stiff and stuffed with drugs!) is that my headaches have come back like when I first used it. it must really be something to do with it shifting toxins or something....very interesting!

58am
Back to the Mobiliser routine! it's so cold now that I'm actually enjoying going on just so I can lay on the heated mat for 15 mins in the morning! Localised on my lower and upper back this morning and used the weights on my upper body. Bit stiff after the flight and this really helps.

58pm
Concentrated on my legs tonight. Don't do them as much these days but it takes the pain away from my legs while I'm on the machine so nice. Went to Pilates tonight so I little less stiff and don't take my pain killers after Mobiliser

59am
Woke up with sciatica at 3am and after an hour went on the Mobiliser. So this morning I've already been on once. Still have another go and just take 1/2 my pain killers

59pm
not been on yet..

60am
I tried something new today - prob a bit silly but I wondered if I could go on my side -er, no...but I tried! I wanted to try and get a deeper massage in my glutes.

60pm
My headaches are better - must def be because of the massages. Did a normal program tonight

61am
I've started work in an office today. very nervous to sit down all day so really glad i have the Mobiliser here to help me. i got up early and went on for double time

61pm
Went to pilates after wrok but sciatica very bad from sitting. have a bath and souble Mobiliser. have to get up in the night and go on again at 3am so i can get back to sleep

days 62-63
This last couple of days i've been trying a deeper massage in my glutes which Tony advised (thanks tony). So far it's gone pretty good. I've been putting my knees up and dropping my legs to the side and it seems to work. very pleased with this as it adds a new dimension and i've been adding it on to my routine every time. (tony, if you have any more ideas, let me know!). I've tried sitting up a few times to get a deeper massage but this really hurts! the legs to the side is much better.

Day 64
Being at work in the office is rubbish! My sciatica is ten folds and its made me realise how much better I've been when not working. I guess I forgot how hard it was to sit down all day. I've been trying to exercise in the evenings but can't always if I finish late. Thank god for the Mobiliser. I'm not sure what I would of done tonight without it as the swimming pool was shut. I only have this job till Christmas but thank god I can come home to this! I've been carrying on with the glute work. I still sometimes see a physio for my hip and leg and will be interested to see what she thinks and if my glutes are looser.

Day65
Get up extra early for two go's - one normal and one localised. Then off to work.... I get home at 8pm, the tubes were packed, and go on the Mobiliser before anything else. I've been taking painkillers today but will try not to tonight and stick to the Mobiliser. I go on again before bed.....and again at 4am...but haven't taken drugs tonight.

Day 66
6.30 and back on the Mobiliser. I actually only went on two hours ago I suppose! Trying not to take my pain killers this morning. Have been on for double time again this morning until 7am. Then stretches before getting ready. Off swimming tonight so going to try and not take the pain killers. Used my tens machine and a heat patch on lower back during work

Day 67
Used the weights on my upper body this morning and spent the whole 15 mins with one lot of rollers on my shoulders, one on my lower back. No glute work this morning.

Day 68
I've had a very odd few days and haven't been home very much. This last few days I've only been able to use it once a day and i really notice the difference. I think it's because I haven't been able to go on in the morning. This is my worst time and it's definatly made a difference going into the office this week. As I thought last week was bad but now I realise this is much worse.

I've then been getting in home from work and using it 7pm rather then bed time. I did this for the first couple of days, but now I'm trying to go on as close to bed time as possible as I think it makes such a difference with sleep.

I'm really enjoying glute work again this week. It's very satisfying to do and really makes you feel like you're helping yourself.

I've been trying to turn my neck too and getting a massage on the sides. It doesn't get far round but it's quite relaxing. Another thing I've tried is having my knees up and using it on the soles of my feet felt pretty nice but only if i have time otherwise

Day 68
I've had a very odd few days and haven't been home very much. This last few days I've only been able to use it once a day and i really notice the difference. I think it's because I haven't been able to go on in the morning. This is my worst time and it's definitely made a difference going into the office this week. As I thought last week was bad but now I realise this is much worse.

I've then been getting in home from work and using it 7pm rather then bed time. I did this for the first couple of days, but now I'm trying to go on as close to bed time as possible as I think it makes such a difference with sleep.

I'm really enjoying glute work again this week. It's very satisfying to do and really makes you feel like you're helping yourself.

I've been trying to turn my neck too and getting a massage on the sides. It doesn't get far round but it's quite relaxing. Another thing I've tried is having my knees up and using it on the soles of my feet felt pretty nice but only if i have time otherwise

Just checking in! I'm unsure of the day number now I'm afraid. I'm thinking74 but I'm not 100%.

I'm back in the flat today - I've been living elsewhere and have only been going on the Mobiliser once a day so I'm glad to be back. I'm here for two weeks and I'm currently looking for a flat share - always stressful so I am quite sore. I have done no exercise this week. I am relying solely on the Mobiliser at the moment for pain relief but I'm pleased to say I'm not taking as many pain killers as I thought I would. My sciatica has been fairly good this week too and so I'm using leg weight as well as weights on my chest.

I have a question about the local shuttle options. I normal localise on my lower back at some point and glutes etc... I was reading the manual again last night and it said I could add up to 3 local shuttles.? I've tried localising on more then one area at a time but must admit I don't understand how to do it. How do I turn the extra 'thumbs' on?

I have friend staying here with me at the moment. She's tried the Mobiliser, without the softening mat, and still liked it. I thought she may need the mat at first but I guess she's tougher then me! It goes to show how different people are as I would of never of done that at first. However, I can't imagine using the softening pad again now. Even on bad days, I can go on without the mat.

Your basket is empty

Total: £0.00 inc p&p

© Back in Action 2012 | Got Feedback? | site by sav

Back in Action ©2012 | 04/02/2012 | E & OE | www.backinaction.co.uk/mobiliser-diary5