Medically necessary to wear my kilt... for now at least...

[Joshua]

Back story - I had a uncommon (and usually untreated) type of hernia in childhood called a vericocele. In many cases this is not cause for alarm, unless an actual rupture of the wall occurs and your "ahem" parts get twisted up in their packaging (be ready to cringe, this ailment is called "testicular torsion"). Mine did, and I had surgery when I was 14 years old.

Last week, when I thought I had wrecked my back, it turns out I may have actually done damage to the stitching or splints that are now 20 years old. I'm visiting with a urologist tomorrow to confirm, but seeing as the back pain is gone, but it still feels like I've been kicked in a dirty barfight "down there", I'm assuming the worst.

What does this have to do with a kilt?

Well for starters, the only comfort I've gotten is from wearing mine. The reasons are several - the strapped high-waist gives my waist mild support that the low jeans-waist does not - my back is more supported in a kilt.

Because of this back support, I stand up much taller than I do when wearing shorts, and as I work from home I use a standing desk while at home. I'm on my feet as sitting compresses the "tender" areas this particular ailment affects.

Aaaannd, is the obvious reason why any pain down there would be alleviated. Post surgery I was told to wear boxers for the rest of my life. This is just "upping the ante" by "downing the trou", so to speak.

So, sorry if this post is TMI, but I may even ask the Urologist tomorrow if he agrees with my assessment to wear a kilt pre and post any corrective procedures.

[Tobus]

Sounds like a no-brainer to me! And while he may not determine that it's "medically necessary", I'm sure he would at least tell you that if it's more comfortable and avoids pain, do it!

[Chas]

So - everything has a silver lining.

On the one hand 'We feel your pain' and on the other 'having' to wear a kilt is not a bad thing.

I am sure you will keep us updated.

Regards

Chas

[cruiser348]

I think this makes for a fantastic public service announcement. I have severe lower back issues, thankfully not lower front issues, and have noticed the same thing as far as increased comfort that I attribute to the higher waist and strap closure system of a kilt. If nothing else in my case it's much easier to put on a kilt which doesn't require me to bend at all versus a pair of pants.

[Father Bill]

Sounds like a no-brainer to me! And while he may not determine that it's "medically necessary", I'm sure he would at least tell you that if it's more comfortable and avoids pain, do it!

My former doctor used to say that "It is always wise to avoid pain."

[kilted guys wife]

now if you can just get the doc to perscribe "pint" sized pain killers you will be living the dream

hope you feel better

[LitTrog]

It's like the guy who went to his doctor and said "Doc, it hurts when I do this with my arm."

"Well, stop doing that!" came the reply.

Medically necessary or not, if it improves your current quality of life, I'm sure he'd have no problem. Reminds of a thread Riverkilt started about setting up kilt vendor booths at a urology convention...if he's got an open mind, he might actually begin recommending kilts to other patients!

I wish I could come up with an airtight reason to wear a kilt to work, but the description of your ailment keeps genuine envy at bay. You've got my most sincere wishes that everything turns out well. Yowch.

[KiltedDixon]

I have a somewhat similiar issue or condition. I never thought of the kilt as a remedy in this fashion. Thanks.

[unixken]

now if you can just get the doc to perscribe "pint" sized pain killers you will be living the dream

My chiropractor's receptionist always prescribes two ICE COLD cans of beer. One, to rest in the painful spot in the roll of my lumbar when seated, and the other to be taken by mouth.

[Really a McQueen]

Just remember to get your care provider to write that recommendation for a kilt on the practice's prescription form. Then, submit a copy to your insurance provider. Who knows, they may spring for a Stillwater Standard as a result.