Would like a support group to help safe my life

I've had back problems a few times and I know how depressing it can be. Even walking can be a problem in the beginning. I've always been lucky in that mine eventually resolves on its own. What didn't work for me was too much laying about (beyond the first couple days), or worse yet, sitting. I'm guessing that good blood circulation effects healing, although there may be more to it than that. But too much too soon also set me back a few times. I had to learn to be patient.

How's your back today? If you're good right now I'd consider some core strengthening work to prevent reoccurrences.

In terms of depressed mood in general, exercise makes a huge difference to my mood, as does adequate sleep. With a 3yr old and 7 month old it can be tough to get enough. How are you doing in that regard?

I'm hoping that you're not in a rush to lose this weight, and that you're willing to treat yourself kindly throughout the process. Have you read any of the stickied posts? Here's a great one: http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/1080242/a-guide-to-get-you-started-on-your-path-to-sexypants/p1

I feel your pain. I blew four discs with one sneeze when I was 30. Sciatic nerve damage, now some of it permanent (I have drop-foot on one foot) for the past 25 years after that fateful sneeze. But it took over a year of regular, active care to overcome the outcome of The Sneeze.

You have some work cut out for you, but I would think there is definitely hope. First, aside from seeking internet support here (which you'll find! People are great!), have you first been checked out by a trusted doctor? Get the medical help you need. You may need physical therapy in the form of traction or other methods, to relieve the pressure on your disc.

Also, I suggest, but also don't want you to listen blindly because none of us here know your specific details and medical history, that you also be open to alternative treatments that MIGHT work. For me, chiropractic care saved my life. After The Sneeze, I spent months waiting to get in to seeing osteopaths and neurosurgeons, while nothing was happening and my one leg was exploding in pain constantly. Finally, two people suggested going to a chiropractor that they trusted.

She examined/consulted with me, and I started on a chiro adjustment program. It worked. Took awhile, but it worked. I'm probably in better health at 55 than I was at 30. I lift weights (free weights, squats, deadlifts, etc.!), mountain bike, essentially do whatever I want with a little bit of care.

Had a friend whose back fell apart this summer; bedridden for 3 months while doctors told her it was a torn hamstring. One even told her she had a hamstring avulsion, which is a total tear of that huge muscle from her pelvis. They were about ready to cut her open, and an MRI on her ham showed it wasn't an avulsion. A later MRI on her back indicated the source (kind of "Duh....") was back issues, but at the time her back didn't hurt at all, just her leg. Anyway...she started a regimen of chiropractic and PT/traction, and within a week was up and around, and now is doing SO much better.

There are options out there, but you really have to take your health into your own hands and do the work to figure out what YOU need. Walking, stretching, icing your back, whatever. The less you move, the more you atrophy. There is hope, though, and best of luck to you.

I have a torn disc. 18 months to heal! I try to do sitting exercises and keep calorie count in check until I can get some weight off and my back feels better. Anyone can friend me. Let's encourage each other.

Try a chiropractor. I did and they can work wonders. He does electronic pulse on me. Among other things. I am back on my feet as if my back never went out. Good luck on your journey