Since Tuesday it’s done nothing but rain. Wednesday was awful and Thursday not much better. As I write, it’s only light rain and heavy grey cloud. At least there’s no shortage of water in Wales! It was that cold and damp yesterday that I gave in, put the heating on and lit the woodburner. If nothing else, driving the damp out made it feel better.
It didn’t make a lot of difference to my getting any work done on the plot. After trailing around the county show in Anglesey my leg was really playing up. On Wednesday morning I could hardly walk but it’s eased off now. Not 100% but maybe 80% of normal if you can put a figure on it.
Back Aches and Pain
I’ve had some kind comments and emails from people concerned about my back problem. A few years back I started getting some sciatica after humping a load of compost. Since then it’s been one of those things that comes and goes. Part of the joy of getting older, I suppose.
A pal who had suffered a serious back injury showed me an exercise that helps me no end; this is not medical advice, just something that worked for me. I get on all fours and then stretch out my left leg and right arm. Hold as long as I can and then stretch out my right leg and left arm. It seems to straighten the spine or something. Anyway, it eases off the sciatica
After we moved I decided to treat myself to a new mattress. The old one was a cheap job that had, after 10 years, become quite lumpy and uncomfortable. So off to the shops and I bought a good quality orthopaedic mattress.
Well since then I’ve not really had a decent night’s sleep. After spending well over £100 I was loathe to admit it wasn’t right and thought I’d get used to it. After all, an orthopaedic mattress is supposed to be good for your back.
Since I strained my back it’s become much worse. When I awoke all my back was cramped and it was really painful until it relaxed. I mean dreading getting up painful. Anyway, I decided I’d just have to admit it was wrong for me and buy another one. Rather than another expensive orthopaedic mattress I decided to just buy a cheap one. After all, the cheap one had served me well for 10 years.
I happened to mention this to my Mum who, as Mums do, had the answer. She suggested I get a mattress topper. Val ordered one off Amazon for just £17 and we duly put it on the bed. I must admit to having little faith it would make a difference but I was wrong.
I actually felt refreshed in the morning rather than half dead! Sleeping for less time but much better. Thanks to Mum’s sound advice. I just wish I’d bought a topper rather than the new mattress in the first place.
So to those kind commenters and emailers, don’t worry – I’m nearly back on form and expect the leg muscle strain to be gone tomorrow. Just hope the rain is.
Glad things are looking better. You really cant beat Mums advice sometimes, however old you are 😉
That exercise sounds similiar to some of the pilates the other half does.
that’s exactly what I did, when I bought a new bed LOL….only to go and buy a foam topper a few weeks later!
The ortho bed is better for you but means you can put pressure on your joints. The topper just gives you a bit of padding where it’s needed, and makes all the difference to sleeping well or not.
I also found a v pillow helpful as it supports my shoulders/back when I lay on my side, so stops me twisting and agravating my lower back
Can’t express the difference a good night’s sleep makes. Makes the world a better place!