Symptom Diaries

Quite often I read posts about folks experiencing symptoms for a period of time. They often ask what they should do and if they should call their doctor or not. I usually encourage folks to do so whenever they have a new symptom or a change in an existing one.

Between the call and the actual appointment, for a back pain problem, you may benefit by taking note of things such as your posture while sitting and standing. Note the height of your desk, your monitor, your keyboard, and the back support of your chair--especially if you spend a lot of time on the computer.

If your chair is adjustable, you may try doing so to see if the symptoms improve. You may also take note of your sleeping patterns whenever possible. Do you toss and turn? Increased pain noted when awaking? Be sure to use good body mechanics if you must lift, push, pull anything--load close to body, bend and lift with knees and not back, etc.

Remember to keep note of those things that seem to help the symptoms or make them worse. This information will be helpful to the evaluating doctor, and you may find you are able to find relief on your own.

-Indie

Related Topics: Tension Headache Diary, WebMD Symptom Finder: Back Pain

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