I have osteoarthritis... multiple sites. so I guess we are sisters! This is the first time I ever had an xray of my back. GEEZ. I had explained the symptoms etc MANY times and apparently doctors aren't very good at seeing the whole picture. Seems like a no brainer for one of them to suggest an xray. I was glad to see my port there... the NP at Dr. Curry's office suggested it might be flipped at my last fill after she couldn't seem to hit it and then hit "the side." So it actually was a relief to see it there NOT flipped! I'm also glad this neurosurgeon referred me to the psyiatrist. Maybe I'll be able to get some pain meds, anyway. I know you and your husband have been thru the ringer health wise.... This being OVER 25 years old is tough some days... HA. Thanks, Sharon. I haven't had anything stronger than Tramadol.... which takes the edge off a little... but only if I take about twice what is prescribed.

Oh, Ron, I'm so sorry to hear that! I know your Faith will get you through, but it is such a scary thing! Michael's plant closed after he'd been there, for 28 years! Just locked the doors! I certainly will keep you in mind, if I hear of any positions, needed!

Hi All, I lost my job today and will have to try to quickly build up my graphics business to pay the bills. There are not many good jobs available for 64 year old guys, especially in today marketplace, so it's a scary place to be right now. I know that God will provide for my needs, but being human, it's still a bit unsettling. If you know anyone needing a website, printing, brochures, catalogs, flyers, newsletters, anything . . . Please refer me. Thanks and blessings, Ron www.shilohgraphics.com

Thanks, Chelle. I really was SHOCKED to see the xray!! I have only had the Tramadol from the Rheumatologist and some Flexeril from my PCP, but I have certainly mixed that with a drink or three. What is really astounding is that when the Rheumatologist REFUSED to give me any oral cortisone before my last trip, I .... acquired some and had NO PAIN at all for two weeks!! What a shame there is no medication that works as well without the side effects. I sure will take some on my next trip, though. What I really wonder is if I would have had this kind of condition without the obesity history. I'm 5'10 and peaked at 257. That's obese, but GEEZ..... My mother was NEVER obese and she didn't start having back issues until she was in her mid to late 70's. Obesity really is a nasty disease!!

Marcia, you poor thing. Hope that by the time you read this you are OK. I reckon Vicki is probably right - I get problems whenever I am dehydrated. Kate