Re: Osteoarthritis

[Guest guest]

My fingers have been bothering me, not wanting to do things. The

doc said that it is Osteoarthritis, does anyone have this? I

figured one day that I would get arthristis but not at 24. I was

thinking in about another 10 years or so.

The doc and I also talked about my spine. It has been popping more,

and become increasingly more painful and uncomforable. He said that

the discs are most likely subluxing and that if it gets to be too

bothersome to call and he would set up and x-ray and see if I need a

back brace.

I am just missing all of the things I used to be able to do...I am

just so tired of having things taken away from me and not have

anything to replace them.

------------

You are going to find that a whole bunch of us have osteoarthritis.

By its very nature, you can expect it to be a proabable complication

of EDS at some point in time.

There are two paperback books I am going to recommend you check into

on arthritis. One is " The Arthritis Cure Revised Edition " by

Theodakis, MD. The other is " Maximizing the Arthritis Cure " by the

same author. Both have very good information in them about the

condition and how to deal with it. The other thing I am going to

recommend that you consider is to start taking Glucosamine and

Chondroitin Sulfate. If you do decide to take them, you get better

results if you also take Selenium and Vitamin E with them. They do

a good job of slowing down cartilage loss and in some cases actually

promoting growth of new cartilage. This is important because

cartilage damage is the first phase of osteoarthritis.

I sympathize about your " why me at 24 " comment, but age is not a

determining factor. Yes, the bulk of folks with it tend to be more

advanced in years than you, but getting old and creaky is not a

prerequisite.

What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what do

you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it vary

in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be a

degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

rib.

The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate outward

from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

then you have a rib out.

In either case, minor vertebral or rib subluxations can be adjusted

using either the Polarity X technique or a variation called the V

spread. I routinely take care of both conditions with the family

this way (including on myself). Like I told Mark over the weekend,

I put one of my own ribs back in and adjusted my own L4 vertebrae

with it on Saturday. Let me know if you need a refresher on how to

do it.

As for your fingers, you might want to check into the Silver Ring

splints. Barb can get you all the info you want on them. She has

worn them herself for years and swears by them, as opposed to

swearing at her fingers.

And finally, as for giving up things, I was in a similar situation

and mindset myself about your age (35 plus years ago). I started

not doing things I enjoyed for no other reason than fear of hurting

myself. I finally decided I didn't want to live that way. I

learned to exercise caution in what I was doing, but I stopped " not

doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably with

just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

My fingers have been bothering me, not wanting to do things. The

doc said that it is Osteoarthritis, does anyone have this? I

figured one day that I would get arthristis but not at 24. I was

thinking in about another 10 years or so.

The doc and I also talked about my spine. It has been popping more,

and become increasingly more painful and uncomforable. He said that

the discs are most likely subluxing and that if it gets to be too

bothersome to call and he would set up and x-ray and see if I need a

back brace.

I am just missing all of the things I used to be able to do...I am

just so tired of having things taken away from me and not have

anything to replace them.

------------

You are going to find that a whole bunch of us have osteoarthritis.

By its very nature, you can expect it to be a proabable complication

of EDS at some point in time.

There are two paperback books I am going to recommend you check into

on arthritis. One is " The Arthritis Cure Revised Edition " by

Theodakis, MD. The other is " Maximizing the Arthritis Cure " by the

same author. Both have very good information in them about the

condition and how to deal with it. The other thing I am going to

recommend that you consider is to start taking Glucosamine and

Chondroitin Sulfate. If you do decide to take them, you get better

results if you also take Selenium and Vitamin E with them. They do

a good job of slowing down cartilage loss and in some cases actually

promoting growth of new cartilage. This is important because

cartilage damage is the first phase of osteoarthritis.

I sympathize about your " why me at 24 " comment, but age is not a

determining factor. Yes, the bulk of folks with it tend to be more

advanced in years than you, but getting old and creaky is not a

prerequisite.

What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what do

you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it vary

in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be a

degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

rib.

The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate outward

from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

then you have a rib out.

In either case, minor vertebral or rib subluxations can be adjusted

using either the Polarity X technique or a variation called the V

spread. I routinely take care of both conditions with the family

this way (including on myself). Like I told Mark over the weekend,

I put one of my own ribs back in and adjusted my own L4 vertebrae

with it on Saturday. Let me know if you need a refresher on how to

do it.

As for your fingers, you might want to check into the Silver Ring

splints. Barb can get you all the info you want on them. She has

worn them herself for years and swears by them, as opposed to

swearing at her fingers.

And finally, as for giving up things, I was in a similar situation

and mindset myself about your age (35 plus years ago). I started

not doing things I enjoyed for no other reason than fear of hurting

myself. I finally decided I didn't want to live that way. I

learned to exercise caution in what I was doing, but I stopped " not

doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably with

just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

My fingers have been bothering me, not wanting to do things. The

doc said that it is Osteoarthritis, does anyone have this? I

figured one day that I would get arthristis but not at 24. I was

thinking in about another 10 years or so.

The doc and I also talked about my spine. It has been popping more,

and become increasingly more painful and uncomforable. He said that

the discs are most likely subluxing and that if it gets to be too

bothersome to call and he would set up and x-ray and see if I need a

back brace.

I am just missing all of the things I used to be able to do...I am

just so tired of having things taken away from me and not have

anything to replace them.

------------

You are going to find that a whole bunch of us have osteoarthritis.

By its very nature, you can expect it to be a proabable complication

of EDS at some point in time.

There are two paperback books I am going to recommend you check into

on arthritis. One is " The Arthritis Cure Revised Edition " by

Theodakis, MD. The other is " Maximizing the Arthritis Cure " by the

same author. Both have very good information in them about the

condition and how to deal with it. The other thing I am going to

recommend that you consider is to start taking Glucosamine and

Chondroitin Sulfate. If you do decide to take them, you get better

results if you also take Selenium and Vitamin E with them. They do

a good job of slowing down cartilage loss and in some cases actually

promoting growth of new cartilage. This is important because

cartilage damage is the first phase of osteoarthritis.

I sympathize about your " why me at 24 " comment, but age is not a

determining factor. Yes, the bulk of folks with it tend to be more

advanced in years than you, but getting old and creaky is not a

prerequisite.

What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what do

you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it vary

in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be a

degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

rib.

The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate outward

from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

then you have a rib out.

In either case, minor vertebral or rib subluxations can be adjusted

using either the Polarity X technique or a variation called the V

spread. I routinely take care of both conditions with the family

this way (including on myself). Like I told Mark over the weekend,

I put one of my own ribs back in and adjusted my own L4 vertebrae

with it on Saturday. Let me know if you need a refresher on how to

do it.

As for your fingers, you might want to check into the Silver Ring

splints. Barb can get you all the info you want on them. She has

worn them herself for years and swears by them, as opposed to

swearing at her fingers.

And finally, as for giving up things, I was in a similar situation

and mindset myself about your age (35 plus years ago). I started

not doing things I enjoyed for no other reason than fear of hurting

myself. I finally decided I didn't want to live that way. I

learned to exercise caution in what I was doing, but I stopped " not

doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably with

just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

> I sympathize about your " why me at 24 " comment, but age is not a

> determining factor. Yes, the bulk of folks with it tend to be more

> advanced in years than you, but getting old and creaky is not a

> prerequisite.

This is very true. The PERCEPTION is that one has to be OLD to have

arthritis, but it's simply not true. Those of us with EDS deal with chronic

pain and arthritis-like problems at an early age. And it's not even just

EDS. There are children with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) who suffer

the same arthritic problems that most people associate with old age. People

simply don't perceive youth and illness as going hand-in-hand, especially

when it comes to joint problems.

> As for your fingers, you might want to check into the Silver Ring

> splints. Barb can get you all the info you want on them. She has

> worn them herself for years and swears by them, as opposed to

> swearing at her fingers.

http://www.silverringsplint.com/

Also check out my splint page.

http://www.uggen.net/srs.htm

-Barb

[Guest guest]

> I sympathize about your " why me at 24 " comment, but age is not a

> determining factor. Yes, the bulk of folks with it tend to be more

> advanced in years than you, but getting old and creaky is not a

> prerequisite.

This is very true. The PERCEPTION is that one has to be OLD to have

arthritis, but it's simply not true. Those of us with EDS deal with chronic

pain and arthritis-like problems at an early age. And it's not even just

EDS. There are children with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) who suffer

the same arthritic problems that most people associate with old age. People

simply don't perceive youth and illness as going hand-in-hand, especially

when it comes to joint problems.

> As for your fingers, you might want to check into the Silver Ring

> splints. Barb can get you all the info you want on them. She has

> worn them herself for years and swears by them, as opposed to

> swearing at her fingers.

http://www.silverringsplint.com/

Also check out my splint page.

http://www.uggen.net/srs.htm

-Barb

[Guest guest]

Mike,

Thanks for the reply. I will check out the books. I do take

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to. Usually

about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and also add

selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else. I do not think it

is my ribs because it is lower than that. It is always in the lower

back, I don't know if it is in the exact same position but in the

same general spot. the doc said that if it continues to bother me

that he would do an x-ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of

an inch or something like that. I am not sure how they can tell

unless it is subluxed exactly when they do the x-ray. I will try to

remember to put a finger on it the next time it happens.

thanks!

Hugs,

Jen

EDS III

Phoeinx, AZ

> What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what

do

> you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

> making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it

vary

> in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

> Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be

a

> degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

> rib.

>

> The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

> thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

> have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

> vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate

outward

> from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

> most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

> sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

> spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

> the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

> tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

> then you have a rib out.

> > doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably

with

> just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

> paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

>

> So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

> Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

> learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

> treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

Mike,

Thanks for the reply. I will check out the books. I do take

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to. Usually

about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and also add

selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else. I do not think it

is my ribs because it is lower than that. It is always in the lower

back, I don't know if it is in the exact same position but in the

same general spot. the doc said that if it continues to bother me

that he would do an x-ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of

an inch or something like that. I am not sure how they can tell

unless it is subluxed exactly when they do the x-ray. I will try to

remember to put a finger on it the next time it happens.

thanks!

Hugs,

Jen

EDS III

Phoeinx, AZ

> What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what

do

> you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

> making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it

vary

> in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

> Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be

a

> degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

> rib.

>

> The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

> thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

> have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

> vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate

outward

> from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

> most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

> sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

> spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

> the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

> tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

> then you have a rib out.

> > doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably

with

> just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

> paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

>

> So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

> Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

> learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

> treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

Mike,

Thanks for the reply. I will check out the books. I do take

Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to. Usually

about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and also add

selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else. I do not think it

is my ribs because it is lower than that. It is always in the lower

back, I don't know if it is in the exact same position but in the

same general spot. the doc said that if it continues to bother me

that he would do an x-ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of

an inch or something like that. I am not sure how they can tell

unless it is subluxed exactly when they do the x-ray. I will try to

remember to put a finger on it the next time it happens.

thanks!

Hugs,

Jen

EDS III

Phoeinx, AZ

> What kind of doc were you talking to about your spine? And what

do

> you mean by " popping more? " Are you talking about popping as in

> making a noise? Or as in vertebrae subluxing on you? Does it

vary

> in location or is it pretty much in the same place all the time?

> Low back? Mid-back? etc. Depending on where it is, it could be

a

> degenerative disk, a subluxed vertebrae or a subluxed or separated

> rib.

>

> The next time it acts up on you, have someone take a finger tip or

> thumb and palpate straight down the center of your spine. If you

> have a subluxed vertebrae, the pressure on the center of the

> vertebrae will be painful to the touch and generally radiate

outward

> from the spine in both directions. If it is not painful, then you

> most likely have a rib out. Do the same thing, except along the

> sides of the spine. If a rib is out, pressure on the side of the

> spine will be tender. If you find this pattern, then palpate down

> the edge of the sternum on the same side of the body. If it is

> tender in front as well, about an inch or two lower than in back,

> then you have a rib out.

> > doing " out of concern. Quality of life improved immeasurably

with

> just the change in focus. Oh, yeah, I periodically overdid it and

> paid the price, but my mood was a lot better.

>

> So, in summary, I recommend you check into those two books,

> Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, Silver Ring splints, and

> learning how to do a couple of energy techniques for at-home, self

> treatment (or by someone around you, on you).

[Guest guest]

((((HUGS))) Jen...I'm so sorry you're going through this!

I can relate to this so much... I'm 19yrs and have widespread osteo

as a direct result from the extra wear and tear hyper mobile joints

go through with just gentle activities of daily living. I also have

chronic tendonitis in my shoulder from a recent injury, and on and

off in my L wrist I sprained last spring. I also have osteopenia, am

currently getting my heart investigated (suspected POTs/OI and

tachycardia)and I too have bad pain every day. On the worst days I

have percocet to take to breakthrough the unbearable 'remove this

limb from me!' pain, or if I injure something bad that will take a

while to heal I have oxycontin. So, unfortunately, I know where

you're coming from at being so young yet having to deal with so many

body issue that only 1/2 of those 3X our age deal with! Its a rotten

deal for sure, but there are some positives that can be taken out of

it all. Finding meaning to your suffering helps so much.

In regards to the grieving, this is completely normal Jen! Anytime

you experience a decline in health expect go mourn it again through

the stages of grief. There's no way of avoiding it, so the best way

is to expect to have to grieve for every bit you've lost and for

anything new you've lost. Its normal, and its human.

You hang in there Jen... It'll be OK, you've just got to take this

life in small doses and look after *you*.

((((HUGS)))) and hang in there...

-Rhea

[Guest guest]

((((HUGS))) Jen...I'm so sorry you're going through this!

I can relate to this so much... I'm 19yrs and have widespread osteo

as a direct result from the extra wear and tear hyper mobile joints

go through with just gentle activities of daily living. I also have

chronic tendonitis in my shoulder from a recent injury, and on and

off in my L wrist I sprained last spring. I also have osteopenia, am

currently getting my heart investigated (suspected POTs/OI and

tachycardia)and I too have bad pain every day. On the worst days I

have percocet to take to breakthrough the unbearable 'remove this

limb from me!' pain, or if I injure something bad that will take a

while to heal I have oxycontin. So, unfortunately, I know where

you're coming from at being so young yet having to deal with so many

body issue that only 1/2 of those 3X our age deal with! Its a rotten

deal for sure, but there are some positives that can be taken out of

it all. Finding meaning to your suffering helps so much.

In regards to the grieving, this is completely normal Jen! Anytime

you experience a decline in health expect go mourn it again through

the stages of grief. There's no way of avoiding it, so the best way

is to expect to have to grieve for every bit you've lost and for

anything new you've lost. Its normal, and its human.

You hang in there Jen... It'll be OK, you've just got to take this

life in small doses and look after *you*.

((((HUGS)))) and hang in there...

-Rhea

[Guest guest]

Thank you Rhea!!!

It is really tough but it is so nice to know that other people have

gone through it!

thanks.

Hugs,

Jen

> ((((HUGS))) Jen...I'm so sorry you're going through this!

>

> I can relate to this so much... I'm 19yrs and have widespread

osteo

> as a direct result from the extra wear and tear hyper mobile

joints

> go through with just gentle activities of daily living. I also

have

> chronic tendonitis in my shoulder from a recent injury, and on and

> off in my L wrist I sprained last spring. I also have osteopenia,

am

> currently getting my heart investigated (suspected POTs/OI and

> tachycardia)and I too have bad pain every day. On the worst days

I

> have percocet to take to breakthrough the unbearable 'remove this

> limb from me!' pain, or if I injure something bad that will take a

> while to heal I have oxycontin. So, unfortunately, I know where

> you're coming from at being so young yet having to deal with so

many

> body issue that only 1/2 of those 3X our age deal with! Its a

rotten

> deal for sure, but there are some positives that can be taken out

of

> it all. Finding meaning to your suffering helps so much.

>

> In regards to the grieving, this is completely normal Jen!

Anytime

> you experience a decline in health expect go mourn it again

through

> the stages of grief. There's no way of avoiding it, so the best

way

> is to expect to have to grieve for every bit you've lost and for

> anything new you've lost. Its normal, and its human.

>

> You hang in there Jen... It'll be OK, you've just got to take

this

> life in small doses and look after *you*.

>

> ((((HUGS)))) and hang in there...

>

> -Rhea

[Guest guest]

Thank you Rhea!!!

It is really tough but it is so nice to know that other people have

gone through it!

thanks.

Hugs,

Jen

> ((((HUGS))) Jen...I'm so sorry you're going through this!

>

> I can relate to this so much... I'm 19yrs and have widespread

osteo

> as a direct result from the extra wear and tear hyper mobile

joints

> go through with just gentle activities of daily living. I also

have

> chronic tendonitis in my shoulder from a recent injury, and on and

> off in my L wrist I sprained last spring. I also have osteopenia,

am

> currently getting my heart investigated (suspected POTs/OI and

> tachycardia)and I too have bad pain every day. On the worst days

I

> have percocet to take to breakthrough the unbearable 'remove this

> limb from me!' pain, or if I injure something bad that will take a

> while to heal I have oxycontin. So, unfortunately, I know where

> you're coming from at being so young yet having to deal with so

many

> body issue that only 1/2 of those 3X our age deal with! Its a

rotten

> deal for sure, but there are some positives that can be taken out

of

> it all. Finding meaning to your suffering helps so much.

>

> In regards to the grieving, this is completely normal Jen!

Anytime

> you experience a decline in health expect go mourn it again

through

> the stages of grief. There's no way of avoiding it, so the best

way

> is to expect to have to grieve for every bit you've lost and for

> anything new you've lost. Its normal, and its human.

>

> You hang in there Jen... It'll be OK, you've just got to take

this

> life in small doses and look after *you*.

>

> ((((HUGS)))) and hang in there...

>

> -Rhea

[Guest guest]

Thank you Rhea!!!

It is really tough but it is so nice to know that other people have

gone through it!

thanks.

Hugs,

Jen

> ((((HUGS))) Jen...I'm so sorry you're going through this!

>

> I can relate to this so much... I'm 19yrs and have widespread

osteo

> as a direct result from the extra wear and tear hyper mobile

joints

> go through with just gentle activities of daily living. I also

have

> chronic tendonitis in my shoulder from a recent injury, and on and

> off in my L wrist I sprained last spring. I also have osteopenia,

am

> currently getting my heart investigated (suspected POTs/OI and

> tachycardia)and I too have bad pain every day. On the worst days

I

> have percocet to take to breakthrough the unbearable 'remove this

> limb from me!' pain, or if I injure something bad that will take a

> while to heal I have oxycontin. So, unfortunately, I know where

> you're coming from at being so young yet having to deal with so

many

> body issue that only 1/2 of those 3X our age deal with! Its a

rotten

> deal for sure, but there are some positives that can be taken out

of

> it all. Finding meaning to your suffering helps so much.

>

> In regards to the grieving, this is completely normal Jen!

Anytime

> you experience a decline in health expect go mourn it again

through

> the stages of grief. There's no way of avoiding it, so the best

way

> is to expect to have to grieve for every bit you've lost and for

> anything new you've lost. Its normal, and its human.

>

> You hang in there Jen... It'll be OK, you've just got to take

this

> life in small doses and look after *you*.

>

> ((((HUGS)))) and hang in there...

>

> -Rhea

[Guest guest]

I do take Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to.

Usually about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and

also add selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else.

the doc said that if it continues to bother me that he would do an x-

ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of an inch or something

like that. I am not sure how they can tell unless it is subluxed

exactly when they do the x-ray.

-------------------

Yes, you should try to remember to take them daily. I go through

cycles myself on taking the stuff but haven't really needed to since

I got into the energetic stuff. Even so, I think they have a super

track record for effectiveness. I know a whole bunch of people who

take it and swear by it (including doctors).

Your GP may be the best GP in the world, but the probability is that

he doesn't have a lot of serious experience in either spinal or soft

tissue issues. I am not throwing rocks at him - I am just stating

facts. To begin with, you are absolutely right about the xray. It

won't show anything unless they are subluxed at the time. It can

show degeneration in/of the discs, but the vertebrae itself has to

be subluxed at the time for that to show up.

For the record, I have had extensive personal experience with

general MD's, Orothpedic Surgeons, Chiros, Osteos and Bodyworkers

for the last 35 years for back problems. The absolute LAST person I

would consult would be a general MD.

Talking about your lower back, there are a number of possibilities.

I don't know how much you know about spinal mechanics or spinal

anatomy, so I am going to give you a quick run-down on a few

points. The space in between vertebrae is filled with a gelatinous

donut called a disc. It is filled with a fluid and acts as a shock

absorber for the spine. A ruptured disc is when the disc itself

gets torn and the fluid leaks out. A herniated disc is when one

side of the disc gets compressed by a subluxed vertebrae. The pain

you experience is generally because the major nerve roots exit the

spine through what is called the vertebral foramen (Latin for hole)

and pressure is applied against one or more of the nerves.

Depending on which nerve is involved, you could have pain in the

arm, leg, whereever. A subluxed vertebrae is when a vertebrae

disarticulates from its normal position.

If you are having problems with subluxing vertebrae, I can tell you

right now what your GP is apt to do for you. To begin with, he may

(and already has) suggest a brace to stablize your spine. For

immediate pain episodes, he will also give you prescriptions for

pain pills and muscle relaxers and recommend bed rest and ice. If

it gets worse, he might suggest hospitalized traction or surgery to

fuse the vertebrae. That's what he will do because that is how he

was trained.

You alternatives are chiros and/or osteos. Both do thrust

adjustments, although osteos tend to use less invasive methods than

chiros. Basically, the vertebrae is out of position - put it back

where it belongs. I could not tell you how many adjustments I have

had over the years. One advantage of osteos over chiros in most

areas is that osteos tend to also be able to prescribe meds where

chiros can't. Some osteos are also trained in surgery in more

extreme cases. Historically, my first choice where I could find one

has always been for a good osteo.

The noise may or may not indicate a problem. Of and by itself, it

is called crepitus and can caused by a number of things - air,

tendons or ligaments popping or an adjoinging structure, etc. If

the noise is accompanied by immediate pain, you need to get it

checked. Also, if it feels or sounds like bone grinding on bone,

you need to get it checked. But just a noise by itself doesn't

necessarily mean any problem at all. I pop and crackle all the

time - neck, knees, back, you name it.

Getting back to your lower back. If the noise and pain are centered

and in the spine itself, it is probably a vertebrae. However, if it

is lower and off to the side of the sacrum, you are probably having

a problem with your sacroiliaic (SI) joint. It can make a popping

noise when it acts up and it does hurt.

[Guest guest]

I do take Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to.

Usually about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and

also add selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else.

the doc said that if it continues to bother me that he would do an x-

ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of an inch or something

like that. I am not sure how they can tell unless it is subluxed

exactly when they do the x-ray.

-------------------

Yes, you should try to remember to take them daily. I go through

cycles myself on taking the stuff but haven't really needed to since

I got into the energetic stuff. Even so, I think they have a super

track record for effectiveness. I know a whole bunch of people who

take it and swear by it (including doctors).

Your GP may be the best GP in the world, but the probability is that

he doesn't have a lot of serious experience in either spinal or soft

tissue issues. I am not throwing rocks at him - I am just stating

facts. To begin with, you are absolutely right about the xray. It

won't show anything unless they are subluxed at the time. It can

show degeneration in/of the discs, but the vertebrae itself has to

be subluxed at the time for that to show up.

For the record, I have had extensive personal experience with

general MD's, Orothpedic Surgeons, Chiros, Osteos and Bodyworkers

for the last 35 years for back problems. The absolute LAST person I

would consult would be a general MD.

Talking about your lower back, there are a number of possibilities.

I don't know how much you know about spinal mechanics or spinal

anatomy, so I am going to give you a quick run-down on a few

points. The space in between vertebrae is filled with a gelatinous

donut called a disc. It is filled with a fluid and acts as a shock

absorber for the spine. A ruptured disc is when the disc itself

gets torn and the fluid leaks out. A herniated disc is when one

side of the disc gets compressed by a subluxed vertebrae. The pain

you experience is generally because the major nerve roots exit the

spine through what is called the vertebral foramen (Latin for hole)

and pressure is applied against one or more of the nerves.

Depending on which nerve is involved, you could have pain in the

arm, leg, whereever. A subluxed vertebrae is when a vertebrae

disarticulates from its normal position.

If you are having problems with subluxing vertebrae, I can tell you

right now what your GP is apt to do for you. To begin with, he may

(and already has) suggest a brace to stablize your spine. For

immediate pain episodes, he will also give you prescriptions for

pain pills and muscle relaxers and recommend bed rest and ice. If

it gets worse, he might suggest hospitalized traction or surgery to

fuse the vertebrae. That's what he will do because that is how he

was trained.

You alternatives are chiros and/or osteos. Both do thrust

adjustments, although osteos tend to use less invasive methods than

chiros. Basically, the vertebrae is out of position - put it back

where it belongs. I could not tell you how many adjustments I have

had over the years. One advantage of osteos over chiros in most

areas is that osteos tend to also be able to prescribe meds where

chiros can't. Some osteos are also trained in surgery in more

extreme cases. Historically, my first choice where I could find one

has always been for a good osteo.

The noise may or may not indicate a problem. Of and by itself, it

is called crepitus and can caused by a number of things - air,

tendons or ligaments popping or an adjoinging structure, etc. If

the noise is accompanied by immediate pain, you need to get it

checked. Also, if it feels or sounds like bone grinding on bone,

you need to get it checked. But just a noise by itself doesn't

necessarily mean any problem at all. I pop and crackle all the

time - neck, knees, back, you name it.

Getting back to your lower back. If the noise and pain are centered

and in the spine itself, it is probably a vertebrae. However, if it

is lower and off to the side of the sacrum, you are probably having

a problem with your sacroiliaic (SI) joint. It can make a popping

noise when it acts up and it does hurt.

[Guest guest]

I do take Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate when I remember to.

Usually about 4 times a week. I will try to take it everyday and

also add selenium and vitamin E to them.

right now I am just talking with my GP doctor about my spine. the

issues just started last week monday. it was a loud popping sound

to start with in the lower part of my back. now the sound is not so

loud but I can still hear it when it happens. I have never really

had a problem with my back before so I do not know the difference

between a vertebrae subluxing to anything else.

the doc said that if it continues to bother me that he would do an x-

ray to see if it is subluxing more than 1/8 of an inch or something

like that. I am not sure how they can tell unless it is subluxed

exactly when they do the x-ray.

-------------------

Yes, you should try to remember to take them daily. I go through

cycles myself on taking the stuff but haven't really needed to since

I got into the energetic stuff. Even so, I think they have a super

track record for effectiveness. I know a whole bunch of people who

take it and swear by it (including doctors).

Your GP may be the best GP in the world, but the probability is that

he doesn't have a lot of serious experience in either spinal or soft

tissue issues. I am not throwing rocks at him - I am just stating

facts. To begin with, you are absolutely right about the xray. It

won't show anything unless they are subluxed at the time. It can

show degeneration in/of the discs, but the vertebrae itself has to

be subluxed at the time for that to show up.

For the record, I have had extensive personal experience with

general MD's, Orothpedic Surgeons, Chiros, Osteos and Bodyworkers

for the last 35 years for back problems. The absolute LAST person I

would consult would be a general MD.

Talking about your lower back, there are a number of possibilities.

I don't know how much you know about spinal mechanics or spinal

anatomy, so I am going to give you a quick run-down on a few

points. The space in between vertebrae is filled with a gelatinous

donut called a disc. It is filled with a fluid and acts as a shock

absorber for the spine. A ruptured disc is when the disc itself

gets torn and the fluid leaks out. A herniated disc is when one

side of the disc gets compressed by a subluxed vertebrae. The pain

you experience is generally because the major nerve roots exit the

spine through what is called the vertebral foramen (Latin for hole)

and pressure is applied against one or more of the nerves.

Depending on which nerve is involved, you could have pain in the

arm, leg, whereever. A subluxed vertebrae is when a vertebrae

disarticulates from its normal position.

If you are having problems with subluxing vertebrae, I can tell you

right now what your GP is apt to do for you. To begin with, he may

(and already has) suggest a brace to stablize your spine. For

immediate pain episodes, he will also give you prescriptions for

pain pills and muscle relaxers and recommend bed rest and ice. If

it gets worse, he might suggest hospitalized traction or surgery to

fuse the vertebrae. That's what he will do because that is how he

was trained.

You alternatives are chiros and/or osteos. Both do thrust

adjustments, although osteos tend to use less invasive methods than

chiros. Basically, the vertebrae is out of position - put it back

where it belongs. I could not tell you how many adjustments I have

had over the years. One advantage of osteos over chiros in most

areas is that osteos tend to also be able to prescribe meds where

chiros can't. Some osteos are also trained in surgery in more

extreme cases. Historically, my first choice where I could find one

has always been for a good osteo.

The noise may or may not indicate a problem. Of and by itself, it

is called crepitus and can caused by a number of things - air,

tendons or ligaments popping or an adjoinging structure, etc. If

the noise is accompanied by immediate pain, you need to get it

checked. Also, if it feels or sounds like bone grinding on bone,

you need to get it checked. But just a noise by itself doesn't

necessarily mean any problem at all. I pop and crackle all the

time - neck, knees, back, you name it.

Getting back to your lower back. If the noise and pain are centered

and in the spine itself, it is probably a vertebrae. However, if it

is lower and off to the side of the sacrum, you are probably having

a problem with your sacroiliaic (SI) joint. It can make a popping

noise when it acts up and it does hurt.

[Guest guest]

Jen,

I was diagnosed with Juvinile Rheumatoid Arthritis and Seronegative

Spondoloarthritis at age 12 and have been fighting this on and

off all of my life, with NSAIDS (I can't use anymore)etc.

I am sorry that you have osteoathritis but it sis something you can

learn to live with (Trust me on this one) and while it is NOT easy it

is possible.

Good Luck and here is hoping you can keep it under control and stop

it from progressing etc.

Sharon

> Hi all,

>

> I went to the doctor this morning. My fingers have been bothering

> me, not wanting to do things. The doc said that it is

> Osteoarthritis, does anyone have this? I figured one day that I

> would get arthristis but not at 24. I was thinking in about

another

> 10 years or so. it kind of scared me, when he told me that. All I

> could think is that this was another degenerative disease and that

I

> could not handle another one. I told one of the guys at work he

> asked if this was ontop of what I already have and he just looked

> shocked that I keep having things go wrong with my body.

>

> The doc and I also talked about my spine. It has been popping

more,

> and become increasingly more painful and uncomforable. He said

that

> the discs are most likely subluxing and that if it gets to be too

> bothersome to call and he would set up and x-ray and see if I need

a

> back brace. Although he did say that I would be very

uncomforatable

> to wear it in the summer here, in the 110 degree weather. Is there

> anything else I can do to prevent it from getting worse or just to

> help stabalize it now. I really am dreading a back brace in the

> heat. although if it helps I will have to wear it none the less.

>

> I have been having major emotional issues over all of this, and the

> increased pain I have been in lately. I am just missing all of the

> things I used to be able to do. I had thought that I greived and

> was over them, but I don't think I am there yet. I am just so tired

> of having things taken away from me and not have anything to

replace

> them. I am sure you all understand, and I am really greatful for

> that.

>

> thanks for listening.

> hugs!

> jen

>

> EDS III

> Phoenix, AZ

[Guest guest]

No problem Jen! And hey if you ever want to talk about this all my

email is swiftygal_2000 @ yahoo.com

Take care OK? And like Sharon said, you can and do 'adjust' to your

life. That doesn't mean you stop wishing things were better

sometimes, but acceptance does come.

Big(((HUGS))) and hang in there...

-Rhea

[Guest guest]

Thank you Rhea, Sharon, Mark, Mike and Barb.

I hope I got everyone!

It helps to know that others have handled this and i will continue

to " Dread one day at a time. "

I will try to find an Osteos in the area that knows something about

EDS to get checked to make sure everything it okay.

Thanks again!

Jen

> No problem Jen! And hey if you ever want to talk about this all my

> email is swiftygal_2000 @ yahoo.com

>

> Take care OK? And like Sharon said, you can and do 'adjust' to

your

> life. That doesn't mean you stop wishing things were better

> sometimes, but acceptance does come.

>

> Big(((HUGS))) and hang in there...

>

> -Rhea