On the DL.

With the Bulls vs. Heat game today, I thought it'd be appropriate to title this blog "on the DL", because if I was a pro sports player, I would definitely be on the disabled list right now.

My lower back is KILLING me. 2 weeks ago, it was a bit sore which I've experienced before, so I took it easy and only worked out 1 day that week. Last Sunday, which was Mother's Day, it was still achy but I went running 4 miles with my brother. I worked out 4 times last week, Sunday, Monday, a run Friday morning, and a workout on the elliptical Saturday morning. I also went out with some friends last night, which may or may not have contributed to the pain I'm experiencing today - hard to tell, I wore comfortable shoes and was sitting most of the night. I've tried everything - Icy Hot patches, heating pad, stretching, back pain pills, some steroid cream my mom had prescribed for her shoulder - nothing helps.

Right now, my back pain is so bad I want to throw up. I can't stand up straight. Every position - laying down, sitting, standing - hurts. I could barely get out of my car when I drove home today. Laughing hurts, coughing and sneezing kill. THIS SUCKS. I'm freaking out because my 1/2 marathon training is supposed to start next Sunday. I'm giving in and going to the doctor tomorrow to see if there is anything else that can be done. The last time I went, probably 8 months ago for this same issue, they didn't tell me anything new. They said it was muscular and likely not a disc issue, and that I needed to do physical therapy for a few sessions. I wasn't willing to pay for the sessions so I didn't go, but I think this time I'm going to shell out the cash for it because I can't have this happen again and ruin my training.

Later this week I'll also be getting the results of some blood work I had done last week. For years now, I have had the feeling something is off with my blood sugar, so I finally got that along with my cholesterol and thyroid tested. Many times, I'll feel weak and lightheaded during the day and it makes me want to eat and eat. Again, the upcoming marathon training pushed me to finally get this checked out and taken care of.

Please, please, please let my back heal this week!!!!!!!