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Sarah-108 , 01 Mar 2014

Back Pain

I have been picking at my skin (mostly on my face) as early as 8 years old, but it has become a more chronic issue in the past 6 years (I'll be 21 in a month). If it wasn't bad enough dealing with this, I am now starting to notice lower back pain from leaning over the bathroom sink for so long. I'm starting to worry that I am causing long term damage to my back. For the past 2 days I have been experiencing a radiating burning sensation in my lower back and it is worse than I've ever experienced before. I am going to a support meeting tomorrow and hope to get some advice or insight, but I just don't know how to stop. Some of you may know who Angela Hartlin is (advocate and author of Forever Marked). The group I belong to is run by her in Dartmouth, NS. I know she has been open about suffering from back problems related to picking and I am really worried that this disorder is catching up to me.. I guess I am just wondering if anyone else has experienced noticeable back pain from their picking or if you have any suggestions to help me limit my time in front of the mirror. I don't want to hinder my physical capabilities for the rest of my life over this.
3 Answers
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FreeFromMyself
March 02, 2014
Yes, I'm experiencing back pain from picking and also knee pain because my knees are locked in straight positions for hours when I pick. It's not a good feeling knowing your injuring another part of your body yet that is still not incentive enough to totally stop. What's is interesting about this disease too is the harm to the skin is less important than the possible long term problems we may be causing our joints. The skin is being scarred and damaged as well but for some reason in our minds it's ok.
Sarah-108
March 05, 2014
That's what I find crazy... although my back pain has lessened a bit in the past few days, even when I'm in excruciating pain and know I will have a hard time sleeping because of it, I still can't stop. You think knowing you're causing yourself more pain and lifelong issues would make you think twice, but it doesn't. The urge is literally stronger than the consequences. That was something I was asked about at my meeting on Sunday. I said that even though I was in pain, this did not stop me.
penny21
March 06, 2014
I was over the sink that long i couldnt stand up iwas in that much pain. (Washing not picking):) I allways get randome back cramp and shooting pains this was 5 mins ago then i came on here and read your post and totaly relaited to it. The best way to stop picking is will power. You need to be strong its working good for me. Allso calamine lotion !! I cant remember yhe last time i went in a trance for hours infront of the mirror. I still pick but not as much as i useto! I tell myself that im doing it yo myself and im making my self ugly. Which i am its me doing it. You need to tell your self yo stop and realise your in controle not your picking. Be sttong! Dont give in to your urges! Xxxx

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