I thought I had a herniated disc.

There were several times when I had such severe back pain that I couldn't move. When the pain was too intense, I couldn't go to the hospital and just lay down, enduring it by applying patches and taking medication from the pharmacy. Eventually, I found the best orthopedic clinic where I could walk again.

Since my body shape is relatively slim and long-waisted, I often experience issues, so I usually keep patches and medication ready even during normal times.

I never experienced pain when I was young, but around menopause, I suddenly felt a sharp jolt and couldn't use my lower back while lifting something not even heavy. Moreover, I couldn't open a bottle cap and, while trying to turn it forcefully, my lower back suddenly ached so badly that I couldn't breathe, and I couldn't sit, lie down, or bend, so I had to crawl. I couldn't even sit on the toilet, and naturally, I couldn't exert any force, which led to constipation. I couldn't even lower or raise my clothes. I couldn't go to the hospital, and I even considered calling 119, but I managed with patches and over-the-counter medication.

I was able to move to some extent, so I went to the hospital. They said it wasn't a disc issue, and I received physical therapy and injections. I was prescribed muscle relaxants, and after about two weeks of suffering, I gradually recovered.

Since then, perhaps due to poor posture, I frequently experience lower back pain, so I keep a patch on hand even in everyday life.

Because the pain at that time was so severe, I started doing small equipment Pilates exercises to survive, and I continue doing them regularly as a preventive measure in case my back suddenly gets caught or collapses again.

Fortunately, it wasn't a disc issue, but I believe that herniated disc was caused by her congenital body shape and her habitual poor posture, such as sitting crooked, crossing her legs, and slouching.

Above all, I lacked strength in my lower back, so I would collapse even with little effort, and I often got caught in my throat, making it difficult to move. Because of this, I have been doing Pilates twice a week for over two years.