Mrs. V. in tremendous pain, but needs to get out. Need ideas!

[bertha katzenengel]

It's lower back pain. One lumbar vertebra is almost gone, the two surrounding it are on their way. No more elaboration on that. She's getting treatment.

She needs to get out of the house. She wants to go to Harper's Ferry today, a 2.5 hour drive one way. I don't know yet if she's going to feel up to it.

In case she can't do that long drive today: I wonder if anyone can give me some ideas on how to get her out of the house without causing her too much pain. It's hard for her to walk and it's hard for her to sit, so it sounds like everything is impossible. I don't know what to do.

Any ideas?

[LaurenG]

1. She may be able to go on a drive if she can adjust the seat

and put pillows around. If she wants to go and can get by on pain meds and reclining most of the way it will probably be good for her soul. I wish you both a happy day whatever you decide to do. Hugs and healing vibes to Mrs. V. :hug:

[bertha katzenengel]

2. Thank you, O.B.

Good suggestions.

[Bossy Monkey]

3. You'd think it would be easy to find something like a chaise on wheels...

Anyway, this site has a few things that might be helpful for getting around the neighborhood at least: http://www.1stseniorcare.com/browseproducts/Index8.html

As for the drive, it would probably be better to try for something like a half-hour drive today and if that works out, maybe do Harper's Ferry some other day. Virtual hugs for Mrs V; that kind doesn't hurt.:hug:

[bertha katzenengel]

7. Thank you for the link, and the suggestion of a short drive.

She was determined to get out, and determined to go to Harper's Ferry. We got back a short time ago. She is hurting but does not regret going. We had a great time.

Thanks, UL :hug:

[Ravenseye]

4. What position is comfortable?

Can she lay on her back or her stomach without pain?

Does swimming help? Ie taking the weight off in water? Anywhere you could do that? A Holiday Inn nearby with a heated Pool?

Heh, doesn't sound all that exciting, but I'm trying ta help here! ;)

[bertha katzenengel]

8. Good ideas, Eye

I will suggest the hotel w/ pool. Sometime we can get a room if only for a day (sounds kinky!) to use the spa. Great idea! Thanks.

[MaryBear]

5. I wonder

if a gel mattress or pad might help if it was placed on the seat.

[bertha katzenengel]

9. Excellent, MaryBear

I'll look such things up. Thanks!

[MaryBear]

11. I'm glad you were able to get out

and are glad you did.

[Blue Diadem]

6. There's a cushion with a section cut out..relieves pressure on spine

I wonder if that might help.

www.badbacks.com.au/product.asp?productID=389

This link is just to let you know what it looks like..we bought one for much less..something like $20-$25 at a local store. $55 seems way to high.

[bertha katzenengel]

10. Another great idea.

Thanks, VotesCount. :hi:

[snacker]

12. Here's what my husband did to transport me

when I had a ruptured disc and was in tremendous pain when I walked or sat: we have a minivan and he took the 2 back rows of seats out and put a single mattress in. I laid on the mattress and it worked quite well.