I have lordosis and a herniated disk... Can I be a nurse?

It all depends on the severity of your condition and what you feel your limitations may be. For example, how do you with prolonged standing or even prolonged sitting. Do you have a lot of pain, to include nerve pain?, etc.

It may be very beneficial (if you don't have any recent doctor visits) to consider being seen by a physician, to include running some tests to determine the extent of your back problem. Speak with the physician as well about providing you a referral for physical therapy (if you haven't before). I had physical therapy for my herniated disk that was very helpful, to include getting good information from the PT on exercises and ways to reduce flare ups. Once you have the full picture of your prognosis, in speaking with both the doctor and physical therapist, then I think you will have the information where you can decide on whether or not being a nurse will work "physically" for you.

There is no easy answer....because depending on the person and how it impacts his/her body will play a role in whether or not some jobs may or may not work for you. There was a time when I had so much nerve pain, even sitting down for prolonged periods of time was agony.

Are you able to move anything heavier than a 10 pounds box? You will have to assist patient if you do any bedside nursing.

On the other hand, if you want to help those who are sick, you do not necessarily have to be a nurse.

There are other careers that you could look into that you will certainly help people. You could become a therapist, or a psychologist and there is no need to worry about reentering your back at all.

A social worker only need a master degree to work. They will not have to lift the patient or anything heavy either. And if having to document your case (by typing) hurts your back, you can always use voice dictation, as I am doing so now.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/little_pooky/82845852...