I was born with Spina Bifida Meningocele. I was discharged from the Navy after complaining about low back pain. I was not discharged because of the pain, but because I did not tell MEPS before I entered that I was born with Spina Bifida. (I was Honorably discharged btw). I did not know what Spina Bifida was at the time, and at first the Navy doctor who determined that I would be discharged mistakenly diagnosed me with Spina Bifida Occulta.

There are three types of Spina Bifida and you can read about them here:

[www.sbaa.org]

A Zanetic, I appreciate your concern, but it is horribly irresponsible to diagnose people on this forum and tell them ALL of their problems are because of Spina Bifida. You sound like you have an agenda that is either well intentioned but misguided, OR you are trying to make a buck by scaring people.

I have the second most severe type of Spina Bifida, but I do not let it stop me from enjoying life. Most people who see me have no idea I have any issues at all.

I made the decision two years ago to not lay down and die. I lost 60 lbs, changed my workout routine to strengthening my core (abs and lower back), and I stretch everyday.

Also, EAT LOTS OF BRAN!!!! The pressure that constipation puts on the lower back causes 99% of my back pain now that I lost weight. So staying regular by eating healthy food is a MUST!!!

Do not take alot of pills for pain!!! It will only swell you up more and cause more pain. Remember that too much weight pushing down on the spine will cause more problems.

Do not lay around- STAY ACTIVE! The more you let the pain beat you down, the more isolated you will become from a normal life and that will cause depression and it will make your muscles weaker- more back pain.

Be very careful of chiropractors! They mean well, but I had two put me in more pain than I needed.

I also have degenerative disc. I leave out the disease in the name because it's not really a disease.

I was born with not just A hole in my spine, but rather three in two veterbrate. I also had a small meningocele that had to be removed when I was 18 months old.

Over the last few years I have worked with the SPina Bifida Associtaion in my state to help children with Spina Bifida. These children by in large have the most severe problems and some of them have died since I started working with them.

I am posting this not to dismiss anyone's claims of suffering and pain. I know what you feel is real. But most people will never listen to you because so many have either never heard of Spaina Bifida or they do not believe that it can cause the issues you complain about.

I would reccomend you see both a good neurolgist and a good orthopedic.

Regards