Bruce,

 

It's not clear what kind of physical problem is causing your sister's trouble.  I was bedridden for 4 months a few years ago from pressure on my sciatic nerve in the lower lumbar region of my back.  The orthopedic dr. I used was of no help, massage therapy was of some use... mostly because the therapist believed what I told her and was kind.  Surgery was not an option I would/could choose. 

 

My sister had gone through the same exact issues with the same debilitating symptoms as I had just before mine started.  She had insurance coverage so her options were more open... and affordable... but even at that to no avail.  There was no relief from the pain and the nerve damage felt in the lower back and legs by the condition in the spine. 

 

In the course of seeking treatment, she found a small book through a physical therapist she used that afforded the most help of all through the whole ordeal and passed it on to me.  It explained how problems occur and progress in understandable terms (with pictures - lots and lots of pictures!).  But more than anything it offered simple illustrated exercises that quickly started to bring relief in the area that was injured by relieving pressure.  My condition still exists but I am almost always pain-free but I sure have learned to recognize the first signs of trouble when they show themselves and I get back to those "First Aid Exercises" given in the book before the pain gets out of hand. 

 

Robin McKenzie is the Australian therapist who authored this little lifesaving book of about 120 illustrated pages.  In fact, there are TWO books... one of which I think may help your sister or anyone else who has physical pain from a pinched or herniated nerve in the neck or back.  Seek the titles "Treat Your Own Back" and/or "Treat Your Own Neck".  I think each costs about $12.00 and can be obtained through amazon.com. 

 

I have loaned this book out, recommended it and bought copies for friends over and over through the years.  It seems that almost everyone who heeded McKenzie's advice and performed the simple First Aid Exercises found relief.  The book also teaches how to avoid getting in trouble to begin with through proper posture and lifting procedures.  It was an invaluable help at a very bad, painful time.  I really hope this helps your sister or anyone else who has neck or lower back pain issues. 

 

 

Sincerely,  Holly