Those with Back problems/issues

[areno79]

Hi there,
I'm sorry if I'm posting this in the wrong place, but I was wondering if anyone that's had back/hip issues has any special tips for me for my May vacation. Looking at me I look like a normal, healthy 25 year old. However, I have arthritis in my hips/lower back, as well as degenerative disk disease. I take Relafen now, but only occasionally. We're going from Apr. 30-May 7, and I have to say I'm starting to get scared that my back problems will start flaring up. Standing or walking for a long period of time hurts-ALOT! I told DH I'd rent an ECV if I had to, but to tell you the truth I think he's a bit embarrassed by it. I think he thinks other people would think I'm "faking". We're bring my 2 DC's (9 and 11) for their first trip, so I really want to make it extra special for them. Being in the pain the whole time is not something I want to have to cope with, but I plan to take a Relafen in the morning, and then in the afternoon.
Any suggestions, experiences, comments, whatever are welcome!

 

[Evil Queen]

I have had back/hip problems for MANY years. I had back surgery in high school and now have "flat back" and bad disks. I hurt all the time for years.

My trip about 4 years ago, I thought for certain I would be renting a wheelchair. I thought I'd start out and see how I did. We did all 4 parks, plus we camped, I never once needed a chair. I felt better than I had ever before. I did just take frequent breaks to be sure.

LAst trip just a little over a year ago, I never once thought about a wheelchair. We stayed on site and I was ok with the beds too.

This next trip, coming in Sept., I am not so sure. I am going back to thinking a w/c again. My pain is about the same, but due to nerve damage, my walking time is cut way down.

Try one of those walkers with wheels that has the seat on them. Maybe that would work better for you. I am even thinking about that.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

First of all, welcome to disABILITIES. You have found the right place.

Next thing is to acknowledge, and especially have your DH acknowledge, that you are disabled.

Standing or walking for a long period of time hurts-ALOT!

Many disabilities are "invisible.

Now some questions and answers:

Are you disabled? Yes.

Does your family know you are disabled? Yes.

Do you expect to meet anyone who you know at the parks? Probably not.

Do you expect to meet many people who don't know you at the parks? Yes.

Do you really care what any of these people who you don't know think about you? Absolutely NO!

I look a lot healthier than I really am. Normally I don't get comments or "the questioning look" directed at me. If I do, I offer the person my ECV if they are willing to accept all my disabilities.

Actually I would suggest you rent an ECV from an off-site company. See the "disABILITIES FAQ" (on the forum's index page) for more information. You may not realize it, but one around the World Showcase lagoon is about 1.25 miles. Some of the hotel corridors are very long.

 

[Talking Hands]

You know it is funny but the times I have meet people I know in the parks they were very understanding about my using a wheelchair. Also when they returned home they were much more supportive when I was struggling to walk or climb stairs. It actually opened their eyes to the fact that I am in pain much of the time but rarely talk about it.

 

[areno79]

Wow, thanks everyone for reassuring me. I hate having limitations, but I'm glad to know that at least there are things I can do to make my trip more enjoyable. It looks like we will be taking more frequent breaks during the day...my 9 yo DC just had an aircast put on today, as she tore a ligament in her ankle! At least she can still walk (although she'll need to take more breaks than normal), and she'll be able to go in the water