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A recent national survey developed by the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians (ASIPP) and Smith & Nephew Endoscopy, manufacturers of the Intradiscal ELECTROTHERMAL◊Therapy (IDET◊ ) procedure, found that 56 percent of Americans who suffer from severe lower back pain would voluntarily give up sex if it meant their back pain would go away. And, 46 percent have actually given up sex due to their lower back pain condition. The good news is drastic and emotional sacrifices are not necessary.

Dr. David Kloth, president of ASIPP and medical director and interventional pain management specialist of Connecticut Pain Care in Danbury, Conn. , offers six tips to help manage your back pain for better sex.

• Talk through your fears: If you’re scared that sex will make your pain worse, address your concerns to your partner. Having a heart-to-heart connects you and brings you closer, and you may find that talking through your fears and hesitations makes them disappear.
• Don’t jump into things: … literally or figuratively! Easing in gradually is important so you don’t over exert yourself and cause further injury. Hugging, kissing and massaging are great warm ups.
• Research positions beforehand: Although it doesn’t pack the same romantic punch as spontaneity, finding physician-recommended positions helps to ensure you won’t injure yourself further. You might even find a new favorite position.
• Find some support: Make sure you have pillows and cushions available to provide extra support, and make sure your mattress (or other surface) is firm and stable.
• If it hurts, stop : This really is as simple as it sounds. Even if a sexual position is doctor-recommended, if it doesn’t feel right to you, don’t do it. You know your body and how it reacts to pain better than anyone else.
  Stretch and bend: If your physician has told you it’s OK, add some stretching to your daily routine. Stretching can help you determine what movements you’re comfortable with in doing.
  

Remember, it’s important to visit your physician if your back pain is chronic, severe, or has a sudden onset. And, don’t ignore your healthcare provider’s advice: If he or she has specifically told you to refrain from sex while injured, then do so.