There are some day I get runny stools, and then right after I get hard stools. I am never -- its off and on. My back is hurting and my legs, and I get pains shooting down. I'm not sure if it is my back from work, or what. Do I need to eat more fiber? Please help.

Dear Denise,

Sounds like you have a case of Sciatica. This occurs when there is some kind of pressure on the sciatic nerve in the lower back. It causes pains in the lower back, and shooting down the legs. It can be caused by injury to a disk, arthritis and even constipation.

As far as having intermittent runny and hard stools, that is also indicative of constipation. You probably would benefit from eating more fiber. A good flushing is probably in order as well. Any type of colon cleansing product that is fiber-based without harsh chemicals would be good.

You should also make sure that you are using proper body mechanics at work when lifting or bending.

Thanks for asking Motherload!

Motherload is a Certified Nurse Assistant as well as an IBS sufferer, which means she knows a lot about poop. Got a question for her? Ask it here. [1]