Has anyone had success with hydrotherapy for disc problems? I have run the gamet of physical therapy, pain medication, antiInflammatories, muscle relaxers, and a facet injection. I was looking for feedback on hydrotherapy and how/if it helped.

I have been experiencing strong and consistent back pain for as long as I can remember (I am 25 now). It starts with a little discomfort in my lower back, and about 20 minutes later, if I don’t take pain medication, my joints will start to ache on one side (my hip, my knee, my ankle). X-rays show some minor scoliosis and a compressed disc (L4 and L5). So far, orthopedic surgeons are reluctant to do anything or even take me seriously because I’m "not old enough to be in a lot of pain."

My question is, could this be something more than a compressed disc? I’ve heard mention of sciatica but I have no idea what that is. I can usually catch it before it gets too bad, but it takes about 4 pills a day (Excedrin, Advil, etc) and I don’t think that’s a good long term answer.

And, one last question – what can I say to the doctor to get him to take me seriously?