|
|
|
|
| What to do when you are experiencing an acute attack... those two days in bed | ||
|
| ||
| State-of-the-art research shows that long term bed rest usually does more harm than good. For this reason, most physicians recommend two or three days of bed rest at most and to move gently even during that time. However, we recommend that you check with your own doctor first to make sure that he or she agrees with the following tips: | ||
|
| ||
| 1. | Even while you are in the middle of an acute episode, you should try not to remain totally still. If you can, walk around for a few minutes once every hour. If you must crawl to the bathroom, do it! | |
|
| ||
 |
2. | Try to do one gentle stretching exercise the first day or two, your best bet is the Knee to Chest Stretch. |
| 3. | While you are resting, you will probably find it helpful to lie on your tummy at least some of the time. This position extends (or arches) your back. The rest of the time, you will want to find a neutral position: on your side, or on your back with a couple of pillows under your knees. | |
|
| ||
| 4. | It's important to avoid twisting and reaching for things; this can strain your back more. Therefore you must learn how to change positions, sit up and get out of bed as safely as possible. | |
|
| ||
How to move during
those two days:  |
To roll over in bed, do what's called the log
roll. Lie on your back with your knees bent. Bring your knees up
toward your chest and place a pillow between them. Then - keeping
your body rigid - roll to one side. You'll probably find it
comfortable to let your hands rest on your stomach. To sit up start off by lying on your back. If you want to get out on the left side of the bed, the first step is to log roll toward the left. (Your body should be positioned so that you are near the left edge of the bed.) Next, let your feet drop over the edge of the bed. Then, using your left forearm and the palm of your right hand push your body up into a sitting position. Your legs, aided by gravity, will lower themselves to the floor. To stand up. Once you are sitting up, remove the pillow. Then using your hands for support, slide your body forward until your feet are touching the ground. Now stand up. | |