Question about arthritis in the spine

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

I saw the pain clinic doctor today...I have arthritis in the lower spine and am going to have an injection in a few weeks to 'numb' the area, trying to discover if the arthritis or if the stenosis, buldging disk is causing the pain. The numbing shot will last several hours allowing me time to evaluate my pain level.

My question (which I will address at the next appointment as well, but is weeks away) since arthritis cannot be cured, can it be stopped or is it something that you just learn to live with? Does it get worse with age? thanks!

Mz iMac · ‎07-26-2014

Why didn't you ask the doctor while you were at the pain clinic today?

"Never argue with a fool. Onlookers may not be able to tell the difference."

Jacie · ‎01-09-2011

I was diagnosed with severe arthritis in my late 50's. It started in both knees and now is in a couple of fingers, a hip and my spine.

I have been on an all out campaign to take as little medication as I can! After looking into them, the side effects were scary.

So, per my doctor's orders I keep my weight in check and more importantly, I keep moving. I am in the gym most mornings, doing a routine that was set for me by the in.house trainer. Some mornings getting to my work-out is truly a pain, but I am always better when I am done. Some days it is the difference between walking or not. If I don't move, it rusts!

I do take supplements, specifically hyaluronic acid and I also take turmeric. I had tried glucosamine/chondroitin but it didn't work for me.

I will admit, some days I am in pain, but find an Aleve on occasion works for me. It takes time, but you will find what works for you in your situation! It isn't a one size fits all disease! Good Luck!!

"Cats are poetry in motion. Dogs are gibberish in neutral." -Garfield

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

I've had every treatment available short of surgery, which they say wouldn't help me, and none of them or any medication has helped. I've learned to live with it, which means staying off my feet.

It's very noble as @Jacie says, to keep moving. I'm sorry Jacie, but when you're in severe pain that's not possible. After I've been on my feet 5 minutes, if I don't sit, I may kill someone. Believe me, an Aleve would not even put a tiny dent in the pain. It does seem to worsen with age.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

I did ask quite a few questions while trying to take in everything that he said....I thought of a few things once I got home. I was given a LOT of information in a short time frame.

I have a notebook that I am writing questions in so I am ready next appointment but that will not be until sometime in mid November.

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

@Kachina624...there is surgery for arthritis of the spine?

@Jacie, The doctor did tell me to keep moving...my pain is the worst in the morning..turning over in bed at night is also painful. Once I am up and moving I feel much better. I do have trouble lifting at work..so my husband has been doing deliveries that I used to do........

Havarti · ‎03-08-2014

@Mom2Dogs

I think many people get new information at a medical visit and need time to process or digest that information before the questions fully start to flow. Reaching out to others for their experiences is a good way to help gather information before your next appointment. I hope you find relief soon.

Snarky responders need not reply. Move along and share your views elsewhere.

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

@Havarti.....thanks, that is exactly what happened.

Jacie · ‎01-09-2011

@Kachina624 I agree with you! I am so happy you have found what works for you.

Yes, there are days that I don't move because the pain is horrific! Some days I have taken 4 Aleve! And yes there are days when you realize you have it in yet another finger and it's depressing!

I still maintain that the endorphins I get from a work out are better for me than any pill I can take, as a former fitness nut, downhill skier and avid equestrian, it's my nature to get and keep moving. Sometimes the moving I do at the gym is seated!

I also just don't like taking drugs if I can avoid it! Not happy about having 2 knees replaced down the road!

Like I said I found what works for me for the time being, and hope that people who have arthritis stay vigilant, find great doctors (they are out there!), and above all don't give up! There will be rough days but then are are great days too!

"Cats are poetry in motion. Dogs are gibberish in neutral." -Garfield

dex · ‎03-09-2010

I heard of a woman who had some kind of stem cell transplant on her spine and is doing well.She was told by other doctors that she would end up in a wheel chair.The doctor is in Chicago but I cant remember his name.she travels there for follow ups since we have no docs in our area doing this yet.