new member with a question

[Guest guest]

Allegra -

I have found walking everyday to be very beneficial. I started walking 1/2 hour

per day after the onset of my symptoms. I had gotten so that I was having a lot

of trouble walking at all, much like you I was having trouble with hips, back,

etc. One of my doctors told me that I'd be in a wheelchair soon if I didn't get

out and hit the streets, and he was right (about the walk, and wrong about a lot

of other things). It was slow and painful going at first, some days I didn't get

very far in that half hour. That's been over 10 years ago now, and I walk as

well as anybody. My wife and I get out for a stroll first thing every morning,

before work or the phone or life in general interrupt us. This time of year it

is cold and dark, but that is OK. I can say that without a doubt that the daily

walk has done more to keep me going than anything else. Some sort of daily

moderate exercise is part of the answer. I still take MTX and Enbrel, but the

walk is very important. One benefit is that my need for pain meds has droped

dramatically. Must be the endorphins.

happy trails - Rob G

> Hi Everyone!

>

> My name is Allegra, and I am new to the group. I am 25 years old and

> was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis around a year ago. I have no

> Psoriasis, though it runs in my family, but I do have significant

> pain in both of my knees, in my hips, and in my lower back. I am

> currently on Plaquenil.

>

> Fortunately, the Plaquenil has helped a lot with the swelling in my

> knees, and with some of the pain. I am still very stiff, and have

> some trouble moving around as freely as I would like to.

>

> this leads me to my question ... have any of you found certain types

> of exercise to be of benefit to you? I would like to start

> exercising ... since I started having problems, I have gained some

> weight, and don't feel as in shape as I used to ... but I don't want

> to do anything to make my pain worse. Any advice would be appreciated.

>

> Thanks in advance, and I look forward to talking to you guys soon!

>

> Allegra

[Guest guest]

Allegra -

I have found walking everyday to be very beneficial. I started walking 1/2 hour

per day after the onset of my symptoms. I had gotten so that I was having a lot

of trouble walking at all, much like you I was having trouble with hips, back,

etc. One of my doctors told me that I'd be in a wheelchair soon if I didn't get

out and hit the streets, and he was right (about the walk, and wrong about a lot

of other things). It was slow and painful going at first, some days I didn't get

very far in that half hour. That's been over 10 years ago now, and I walk as

well as anybody. My wife and I get out for a stroll first thing every morning,

before work or the phone or life in general interrupt us. This time of year it

is cold and dark, but that is OK. I can say that without a doubt that the daily

walk has done more to keep me going than anything else. Some sort of daily

moderate exercise is part of the answer. I still take MTX and Enbrel, but the

walk is very important. One benefit is that my need for pain meds has droped

dramatically. Must be the endorphins.

happy trails - Rob G

> Hi Everyone!

>

> My name is Allegra, and I am new to the group. I am 25 years old and

> was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis around a year ago. I have no

> Psoriasis, though it runs in my family, but I do have significant

> pain in both of my knees, in my hips, and in my lower back. I am

> currently on Plaquenil.

>

> Fortunately, the Plaquenil has helped a lot with the swelling in my

> knees, and with some of the pain. I am still very stiff, and have

> some trouble moving around as freely as I would like to.

>

> this leads me to my question ... have any of you found certain types

> of exercise to be of benefit to you? I would like to start

> exercising ... since I started having problems, I have gained some

> weight, and don't feel as in shape as I used to ... but I don't want

> to do anything to make my pain worse. Any advice would be appreciated.

>

> Thanks in advance, and I look forward to talking to you guys soon!

>

> Allegra

[Guest guest]

Hi Allegra.

I do stretching and flexibility exercises as well as focused muscle

strengthening. My regiment has developed over time, but include

some yoga type stretching, walking 1 mile and exercises I learned in

physical therapy. I can tell that these exercises help, because when

I slack off, I suffer for it. I have found data that indicates that

regular exercise reduced inflammation throughout the body, even in

the areas not being exercised.

In my case, I am able to participate in sports, though not

competitively. I ski and practice basketball with my kids. Three

years ago, before I upped the exercise, I couldn't even dribble a

basketball for the pain.

If possible, I suggest you see a physical therapist to work out a

regiment for you.

Good luck.

> Hi Everyone!

>

> My name is Allegra, and I am new to the group. I am 25 years old

and

> was diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis around a year ago. I have no

> Psoriasis, though it runs in my family, but I do have significant

> pain in both of my knees, in my hips, and in my lower back. I am

> currently on Plaquenil.

>

> Fortunately, the Plaquenil has helped a lot with the swelling in my

> knees, and with some of the pain. I am still very stiff, and have

> some trouble moving around as freely as I would like to.

>

> this leads me to my question ... have any of you found certain

types

> of exercise to be of benefit to you? I would like to start

> exercising ... since I started having problems, I have gained some

> weight, and don't feel as in shape as I used to ... but I don't

want

> to do anything to make my pain worse. Any advice would be

appreciated.

>

> Thanks in advance, and I look forward to talking to you guys soon!

>

> Allegra

> -----------------

> moderator 2 cents: Allegra, I went for a long time only getting

thru my workdays as any form of exercise. Glad to be able to continue

to work. Then I slowly got to where I could do a bit more and went to

Bingo where I sat but I was increasing how far I drove. Over a few

years it was down to not wanting to drive to work which is

technically wihtin walking distance to back to being able to drive

down to Florida 5-6 hours away and be able to do stuff down there.

Living in a small town they have recently opened a bowling alley. I

thought I wouldn't be able to bowl but after trying a much lighter

ball, drastically switching my delivery of the ball ie. stride and

swing, using a wrist support etc. I am slowly increasing my bowling

score and getting to participate in a bowling league. Unfortunately

at this stage I had to go back to taking pain meds but hope over time

to get better and get some mild exercise and cut back on the pain

meds.

> If you are able to go to a heated swimming pool and do group

exercises I have heard many people say that benefited them. The

closest pol is over an hour away so that option is out for me.. PatB

[Guest guest]

It can be useful to remember the concept of a glass of water:

Every adverse exposure, physical or mental abnormality, vitamin deficiency, etc

can be viewed as adding water to a glass. Enough additions and the water

overflows - that is, causes a symptom like a seizure, headache, stomach trouble,

cancer, virtually anything.

Lowering exposures and improving base health can lead to fewer expressions of

disease.

The dog could be " the straw that broke the camel's back " (apologies to those of

you that are not familiar with this English expression). If other aspects of

your husband's health improves, the dog may not be an issue.

Good luck to you,

Sharon

[Guest guest]

I am also on topamax to help manage the pain, I had some relief initially but

that is now

wearing off. Nothing has worked very long.

Isnt' topamax an anti-seizure medication?

I too had pain/numbness in my face that ran across the face to my

ear........sometimes painful......most of the time numb.

I would get yourself to a good LLMD and have some tests done..........perhaps a

neurologist who can help with the headaches and facial problems.

Perhaps they will get an MRI of your Brain and check for any problems there.

Connieknwnj

[Guest guest]

Definitely you should be tested. I have two kids with Lyme - my son had

the severe headaches and actually began having seizures. He was on Topamax

at one time (it drugged him out so much we switched to keppra and depakote.)

After six months of just thinking he had epilepsy, he was finally

diagnosed with Lyme. Three weeks into his abx treatment his headaches were

gone.

In a weird development, my best friend has been going from neurologist to

neurologist because of headaches and neck pain - the fourth one wanted to

test for lyme and we thought there was no way she had it too. The test came

back this week - positive even according to CDC standards. We live in GA.

Good luck - I've heard through the grapevine that Florida is a tough state

in denying that they have lyme. Be persistent, be tested, but also find a

doctor who isn't afraid to make a clinical diagnosis. Your test may be

negative but that doesn't mean you don't have lyme.

Feel better!

>From: " bbgibbs99 " <bbgibbs@...>

>Reply-

>

>Subject: [ ] New member with a question

>Date: Sat, 26 Feb 2005 04:43:51 -0000

>

>

>

>Hi, I just joined and had a few questions that I was hoping you all

>could help me answer. My sister read an artical today and thought of

>me while reading it and I thought I would do some research on what

>she found. It was an artical in the Times magazine about a little

>boy who was suffering from what was thought to be migraine

>headaches, after long suffering and many pills, his homeopathic dr

>hit on the fact that he had lyme disease and within a week or so his

>headaches subsided. I am sure some or maybe most of you are familiar

>with the article? I tried to find it but was unsucessful, so I am

>going on 2nd hand information.

>

>

>I have been suffering from severe headaches for the past year and a

>half. My dr says they are tension headaches with an occasional

>rebound headache thrown in the mix. It now hurts on the side of my

>face as well, from my eye, over to my ear and down to my jaw bone

>and I think it may be starting to hurt on the neck as well. It is to

>the point now that I am taking tylenol, excedrin tension or advil,

>or what ever else i can get my hands on, with an occasional need for

>prescription pain meds, every 3-4 hrs to manage the pain around the

>clock. Makes for many long painful nights! I am also on topamax to

>help manage the pain, I had some relief initially but that is now

>wearing off. Nothing has worked very long.

>

>I was biten by a tick approximatly 3 1/2 yrs ago after a day of

>hunting. We live in Florida. Is it possible to have symptoms onset 2

>yrs after a bite? Can it harbor in the body for such a long time? I

>am doubtful, but wanted to ask. I guess I am hoping to finally find

>an answer and a relief for this agonizing pain. From what I read

>online, 30 days was the longest I could find. Also, i never

>developed a bulls-eye, but I read this is not necessary.

>

>I appreciate any help you all can give.

>

>Thanks!

>

>Barb

>

>

>

>

>

>

[Guest guest]

Barb,

I'm also a newbie to this group. I can tell you there are some

great people on this group.

In my opinio Lyme can be dormant or semi-active for many years

before the onsite of more serious symptoms. The bulls-eye only

appears 50% of the time.

I had mild fatigue for about 5 years, then serious symptoms starting

last Septement, many many doctors and tests and finally diagnosed

with Lyme.

The best advice I got from this group was to RUN don't walk to a

LLMD (Lyme Literate Doctor). This doctor should have a successfull

history of treating people with Lyme. Call there office and ask

them. I have detailed document I put together preparing for my

first Lyme Doctor visit, because your time with the Lyme Doctor is

precious!

I was also advised to see a Naturopathic doctor to guide you in

balancing the treatment you may get from the Lyme doctor. One of my

criteria for picking a Lyme Doctor was that they were open to

working along with a Naturopathic or Homeopathic doctors. These are

the Doctors with experience on which supplements are best for you.

Typically you would go on antibiotics for a period of time and the

Naturopathic Doctor would guide you on supplements to counter

balance the antibiotics and treat the whole body to get better.

The Naturopathic choice is my own personal choice, but I would

recommend you get to a GOOD Lyme Doctor and have all of the test run

as soon as possible.

I'd also recommend Dr. Burrascano's guidelines (14th edition) and

Coping with Lyme Disease by Lang for two main sources of

research.

Feel free to contact me privately if I can help with any other

questions.

Good luck and feel better,

>

>

> Hi, I just joined and had a few questions that I was hoping you

all

> could help me answer. My sister read an artical today and thought

of

> me while reading it and I thought I would do some research on what

> she found. It was an artical in the Times magazine about a little

> boy who was suffering from what was thought to be migraine

> headaches, after long suffering and many pills, his homeopathic dr

> hit on the fact that he had lyme disease and within a week or so

his

> headaches subsided. I am sure some or maybe most of you are

familiar

> with the article? I tried to find it but was unsucessful, so I am

> going on 2nd hand information.

>

>

> I have been suffering from severe headaches for the past year and

a

> half. My dr says they are tension headaches with an occasional

> rebound headache thrown in the mix. It now hurts on the side of my

> face as well, from my eye, over to my ear and down to my jaw bone

> and I think it may be starting to hurt on the neck as well. It is

to

> the point now that I am taking tylenol, excedrin tension or advil,

> or what ever else i can get my hands on, with an occasional need

for

> prescription pain meds, every 3-4 hrs to manage the pain around

the

> clock. Makes for many long painful nights! I am also on topamax to

> help manage the pain, I had some relief initially but that is now

> wearing off. Nothing has worked very long.

>

> I was biten by a tick approximatly 3 1/2 yrs ago after a day of

> hunting. We live in Florida. Is it possible to have symptoms onset

2

> yrs after a bite? Can it harbor in the body for such a long time?

I

> am doubtful, but wanted to ask. I guess I am hoping to finally

find

> an answer and a relief for this agonizing pain. From what I read

> online, 30 days was the longest I could find. Also, i never

> developed a bulls-eye, but I read this is not necessary.

>

> I appreciate any help you all can give.

>

> Thanks!

>

> Barb

[Guest guest]

Is it possible to have symptoms onset 2

> yrs after a bite? Can it harbor in the body for such a long time?

Yes and yes. The lyme bacterium is a 'smart' bug , it will throw off

its own DNA to survive in a hostile environment ( a healthy body ) hiding in

any tissue from heart to head to muscle. It will then remeerge periodically

to probe the environment, replicate and move around, this is how symptoms

can come up after long periods of time and how what starts as one symptom,

can change. Like me, my main symptom for years was cardiac, went to mental

fog , throw in some odd rashes then fatigue. No wonder it took me 30+ Drs to

figure what was wrong! They call Lyme the great imitator, it can seem like

so many different things.

The biggest hurdle you will face, if you do indeed have Lyme, is getting

a Dr to recognise it. Say a patient goes to see a Dr that doesnt really know

or ackoweledge Lyme, patient has the tick imbedded, Drs says, well you ahve

no rash, it cant be Lyme, come back if you get a rash, a week later

patient goes back with rash, dr says, well, you have no joint pain or other

symptom so it cant be Lyme, come back if you get them, another week goes by

and patient comes back with rash, headaches, joint pain and other things, Dr

says here is 3 weeks antibiotics , I dont think you have Lyme, I think you

have been doing to much yard work and your eyeglass prescription may be out

A month goes by and patient comes back with cardiac symptoms, Dr tell him

well, I treated you for Lyme so this all cant be from that, your just

getting old and everyone knows Lyme is only in new england. Sounds funny,

but this can be So true! I live in Texas and its all over around here.

Go to www.lymenet.org and look around, on there are 'the 2000 Guidelines

for treating Lyme' by a Dr B , that lists the symptoms and a clinical

checklist for Lyme. Testing for Lyme sucks, its hit or miss, so the CDC

states that Lyme is firstly a clinical diagnosis. Drs miss or ignore that

fact. YOU have to be your own best advocate. If YOU think you have Lyme,

then you need to push for treatment. Lyme will only get worse if left

untreated ( some people get over a bite, but if you are having symptoms

months/years later, you havent) it may hide from time to time, but it will

come back and it will infect other systems. Best of luck! Take care,

[Guest guest]

> I was giving our then 22 mo son (global dev. delays, SID) 1/4 tsp.

> Houston Peptizide powder in his drink with his meal 2xs/day and it

> seemed to help him focus better and curb his violent behaviors, but

> I

> stopped because he was developing severe diaper rash and his poop

> was

> in grandular form. He was also on 1 tsp 2xs/day of Prilosec, for

> relux and I continued both at the same time.

Reflux is commonly caused by food intolerances. It might be that the

Peptizyde is targeting *some* of your child's food issues, but not all

of them. Try adding another enzyme, Zyme Prime or No-Fenol [or both],

see if that helps.

For my son, severe diaper rash meant eating certain high phenol foods

[especially orange and green foods]. No-Fenol helped with most of

those foods, but not the orange or green foods.

> Any ideas or suggestions - where to look for information, etc.? I

> might also mention that we aren't getting any sleep - he's requiring

> us to be with him at night to sleep - or else the violent behaviors

> escalate. So we also think he's going through separation anxiety -

> but who knows!

This sounds like phenol intolerance. Reduce his daily phenol intake,

and try No-Fenol enzyme

http://www.danasview.net/phenol.htm

Dana

[Guest guest]

Dear Sandy,

I'm a bit older than you(52) but have had the same problem with a few extra

thrown in-

Anyway-I just had a shoulder arthroscopy done a little over 2 weeks ago, the dr.

I went to for this one is a neurosurgeon, he could tell from the xray that i

have arthritis, and would have to shave the bone spur, but didn't know if I had

any tears in my rotator cuff-if I did, he would repair it, and it would just be

a longer recuperation time. I just had a neck fusion done in July, also caused

from problems with arthritis-but my other surgeon said to do the neck first,

then the shoulder. My neck fusion went well, and so did my shoulder arthroscopy.

It was a day surgery, not much pain at all. I woke up with a sling, and the

nurses gave me instructions, and I went home. I have 3 incision points, and the

stitches were taken out on Friday. I drove after about 10 days, I took a shower

with a plastic bag wrapped around the site of the incisions, and carefully dried

myself off, I even was able to wash my hair. I was sent the day after the

surgery to physical therapy, where they

changed the bandages, and set up appts. for the actual physical therapy. I was

lucky, no problems with the rotator cuff, just lots of arthritis, and getting

the bone spur taken care of. I was given Lortab, I'm already on another pain

med., and was told to put ice on the site 3-5 times a day. I go to PT 3x weekly,

and they put me through mild exercises, and massage, and ice it afterwards. I am

feeling a lot better, I only had to wear the sling for about 10 days, while I

was sleeping, or wandering around. I didn't have to have it on 24 hours. I did

more housework than I should have, but that's on me, you should always do what

the dr. says. There was very little pain, just some soreness, and I'm a baby

about pain. I'm a lot better, both the shoulder and neck surgeries went well. I

have a lot more strength in my arms and hands because of the neck fusion, I was

starting to drop everything, and couldn't open jars. I didn't have a lot of pain

with that surgery either, and I had

metal put in. I had a nurse come to the house for a few visits after the neck

fusion, I had a different dr. for that surgery, he had also done my back fusion.

Everything is healing well, and I hopefully have had the last of any surgery. In

the last year I've had three, I also had a knee replacement, and that was also

due to arthritis, my other knee had been replaced a few years ago. My husband

helped as much as possible, he works a lot, and my daughter is grown up and

lives in another state, so I basically took care of myself.

You'll do fine, if I can help in any way, let me know.

Sincerely,

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

Dear Sandy,

I'm a bit older than you(52) but have had the same problem with a few extra

thrown in-

Anyway-I just had a shoulder arthroscopy done a little over 2 weeks ago, the dr.

I went to for this one is a neurosurgeon, he could tell from the xray that i

have arthritis, and would have to shave the bone spur, but didn't know if I had

any tears in my rotator cuff-if I did, he would repair it, and it would just be

a longer recuperation time. I just had a neck fusion done in July, also caused

from problems with arthritis-but my other surgeon said to do the neck first,

then the shoulder. My neck fusion went well, and so did my shoulder arthroscopy.

It was a day surgery, not much pain at all. I woke up with a sling, and the

nurses gave me instructions, and I went home. I have 3 incision points, and the

stitches were taken out on Friday. I drove after about 10 days, I took a shower

with a plastic bag wrapped around the site of the incisions, and carefully dried

myself off, I even was able to wash my hair. I was sent the day after the

surgery to physical therapy, where they

changed the bandages, and set up appts. for the actual physical therapy. I was

lucky, no problems with the rotator cuff, just lots of arthritis, and getting

the bone spur taken care of. I was given Lortab, I'm already on another pain

med., and was told to put ice on the site 3-5 times a day. I go to PT 3x weekly,

and they put me through mild exercises, and massage, and ice it afterwards. I am

feeling a lot better, I only had to wear the sling for about 10 days, while I

was sleeping, or wandering around. I didn't have to have it on 24 hours. I did

more housework than I should have, but that's on me, you should always do what

the dr. says. There was very little pain, just some soreness, and I'm a baby

about pain. I'm a lot better, both the shoulder and neck surgeries went well. I

have a lot more strength in my arms and hands because of the neck fusion, I was

starting to drop everything, and couldn't open jars. I didn't have a lot of pain

with that surgery either, and I had

metal put in. I had a nurse come to the house for a few visits after the neck

fusion, I had a different dr. for that surgery, he had also done my back fusion.

Everything is healing well, and I hopefully have had the last of any surgery. In

the last year I've had three, I also had a knee replacement, and that was also

due to arthritis, my other knee had been replaced a few years ago. My husband

helped as much as possible, he works a lot, and my daughter is grown up and

lives in another state, so I basically took care of myself.

You'll do fine, if I can help in any way, let me know.

Sincerely,

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

Hi there Jeanie, Thanks for the responce..What exactly did the Dr do with

your shoulder surgery except for shaving the bone spurs? Did he cut to shave

your collar bone at all? Did he remove your bursa sac?

And yes I know about the arthritis showing up in the xrays. About 6 months

ago I had xrays and they showed nothing really, I kept complaining about my

shoulder he then sent me for a MRI. That's when the arthritis and bursitis

showed up.. WELL after getting so many cordizone shots and them not helping

much he sent me to the surgeon , he did xrays and this time it showed up BIG

TIME it is all the way down into my collar bone.UHGG

And he did say I would be wearing a sling for awhile but for just one week

and that was mostly for " comfort " ? Lets just hope I have no tears because

like you he told me it would be 3 to 6 months recovery instead of 4 to 6

weeks.UHGG

Sorry to drag on I just wanted to know just what they did with your shoulder

surgery besides the bone spurs....

sandy

-- Re: New member With a Question

Dear Sandy,

I'm a bit older than you(52) but have had the same problem with a few extra

thrown in-

Anyway-I just had a shoulder arthroscopy done a little over 2 weeks ago, the

dr. I went to for this one is a neurosurgeon, he could tell from the xray

that i have arthritis, and would have to shave the bone spur, but didn't

know if I had any tears in my rotator cuff-if I did, he would repair it, and

it would just be a longer recuperation time. I just had a neck fusion done

in July, also caused from problems with arthritis-but my other surgeon said

to do the neck first, then the shoulder. My neck fusion went well, and so

did my shoulder arthroscopy. It was a day surgery, not much pain at all. I

woke up with a sling, and the nurses gave me instructions, and I went home.

I have 3 incision points, and the stitches were taken out on Friday. I drove

after about 10 days, I took a shower with a plastic bag wrapped around the

site of the incisions, and carefully dried myself off, I even was able to

wash my hair. I was sent the day after the surgery to physical therapy,

where they

changed the bandages, and set up appts. for the actual physical therapy. I

was lucky, no problems with the rotator cuff, just lots of arthritis, and

getting the bone spur taken care of. I was given Lortab, I'm already on

another pain med., and was told to put ice on the site 3-5 times a day. I go

to PT 3x weekly, and they put me through mild exercises, and massage, and

ice it afterwards. I am feeling a lot better, I only had to wear the sling

for about 10 days, while I was sleeping, or wandering around. I didn't have

to have it on 24 hours. I did more housework than I should have, but that's

on me, you should always do what the dr. says. There was very little pain,

just some soreness, and I'm a baby about pain. I'm a lot better, both the

shoulder and neck surgeries went well. I have a lot more strength in my arms

and hands because of the neck fusion, I was starting to drop everything, and

couldn't open jars. I didn't have a lot of pain with that surgery either,

and I had

metal put in. I had a nurse come to the house for a few visits after the

neck fusion, I had a different dr. for that surgery, he had also done my

back fusion. Everything is healing well, and I hopefully have had the last

of any surgery. In the last year I've had three, I also had a knee

replacement, and that was also due to arthritis, my other knee had been

replaced a few years ago. My husband helped as much as possible, he works a

lot, and my daughter is grown up and lives in another state, so I basically

took care of myself.

You'll do fine, if I can help in any way, let me know.

Sincerely,

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

Hi there Jeanie, Thanks for the responce..What exactly did the Dr do with

your shoulder surgery except for shaving the bone spurs? Did he cut to shave

your collar bone at all? Did he remove your bursa sac?

And yes I know about the arthritis showing up in the xrays. About 6 months

ago I had xrays and they showed nothing really, I kept complaining about my

shoulder he then sent me for a MRI. That's when the arthritis and bursitis

showed up.. WELL after getting so many cordizone shots and them not helping

much he sent me to the surgeon , he did xrays and this time it showed up BIG

TIME it is all the way down into my collar bone.UHGG

And he did say I would be wearing a sling for awhile but for just one week

and that was mostly for " comfort " ? Lets just hope I have no tears because

like you he told me it would be 3 to 6 months recovery instead of 4 to 6

weeks.UHGG

Sorry to drag on I just wanted to know just what they did with your shoulder

surgery besides the bone spurs....

sandy

-- Re: New member With a Question

Dear Sandy,

I'm a bit older than you(52) but have had the same problem with a few extra

thrown in-

Anyway-I just had a shoulder arthroscopy done a little over 2 weeks ago, the

dr. I went to for this one is a neurosurgeon, he could tell from the xray

that i have arthritis, and would have to shave the bone spur, but didn't

know if I had any tears in my rotator cuff-if I did, he would repair it, and

it would just be a longer recuperation time. I just had a neck fusion done

in July, also caused from problems with arthritis-but my other surgeon said

to do the neck first, then the shoulder. My neck fusion went well, and so

did my shoulder arthroscopy. It was a day surgery, not much pain at all. I

woke up with a sling, and the nurses gave me instructions, and I went home.

I have 3 incision points, and the stitches were taken out on Friday. I drove

after about 10 days, I took a shower with a plastic bag wrapped around the

site of the incisions, and carefully dried myself off, I even was able to

wash my hair. I was sent the day after the surgery to physical therapy,

where they

changed the bandages, and set up appts. for the actual physical therapy. I

was lucky, no problems with the rotator cuff, just lots of arthritis, and

getting the bone spur taken care of. I was given Lortab, I'm already on

another pain med., and was told to put ice on the site 3-5 times a day. I go

to PT 3x weekly, and they put me through mild exercises, and massage, and

ice it afterwards. I am feeling a lot better, I only had to wear the sling

for about 10 days, while I was sleeping, or wandering around. I didn't have

to have it on 24 hours. I did more housework than I should have, but that's

on me, you should always do what the dr. says. There was very little pain,

just some soreness, and I'm a baby about pain. I'm a lot better, both the

shoulder and neck surgeries went well. I have a lot more strength in my arms

and hands because of the neck fusion, I was starting to drop everything, and

couldn't open jars. I didn't have a lot of pain with that surgery either,

and I had

metal put in. I had a nurse come to the house for a few visits after the

neck fusion, I had a different dr. for that surgery, he had also done my

back fusion. Everything is healing well, and I hopefully have had the last

of any surgery. In the last year I've had three, I also had a knee

replacement, and that was also due to arthritis, my other knee had been

replaced a few years ago. My husband helped as much as possible, he works a

lot, and my daughter is grown up and lives in another state, so I basically

took care of myself.

You'll do fine, if I can help in any way, let me know.

Sincerely,

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

Hi Sandy,

The dr. didn't remove the bursa sac, nor did he mention anything about the

collar bone. Somehow, this whole thing started with my shoulder being

dislocated, my family dr. thinks it happened during my back surgery. There's no

proof, other than the MRI shows it was dislocated, and put back into place. I

just remember waking up after one part of my back surgery was done, and it felt

like my arm had fallen asleep. I asked my dr. about it, and he said it would go

away, it was the way it had been positioned during the surgery. It never did,

and I waited till I recuperated and went to my family dr., and he saw what

happened, and he was furious! He told me he was dictating everything, in case I

wanted to sue, but pre-surgery, I had never fallen and dislocated my shoulder. I

just let it go, and went through the process of xrays and stuff again. The

neurosurgeon said there was no sense in waiting to try shots or PT, my shoulder

was already frozen, and time would make things worse,

but he wanted me to have my neck fusion done first, he felt that was more

important. I had pinched nerves in my neck, which also affected my arm and

hands, and gave me headaches. They gave me pictures of what

was done, where the bad cartilage and bone spurs and arthritis was. Your dr.

should be able to explain it all to you after. I was unhappy with mine, after I

woke up, I asked the nurse what was done, well, evidently the dr. told me while

I was still under the influence of the anaesthesia, and neither he or the nurse

went out to tell my husband what was done to me! So I had to wait esentially

till my first visit back to the dr. to find out what was done. Maybe you'll have

a better experience with your dr., but make sure they explain it to you when

you're fully awake, or have them tell your husband.

They did tell me it would be easier the first few days to sleep upright, either

in a recliner, or in bed with a lot of pillows propping you up, and it is more

comfortable to wear your sling while you're sleeping-they were correct in

telling me that.

I'll close for now, I know I've gone on and on, but all they really did was

clean up the bone spurs and cartilage, and explore the rotator cuff. Hopefully,

you'll do as well and not have any other damage.

Take care

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

Hi Sandy,

The dr. didn't remove the bursa sac, nor did he mention anything about the

collar bone. Somehow, this whole thing started with my shoulder being

dislocated, my family dr. thinks it happened during my back surgery. There's no

proof, other than the MRI shows it was dislocated, and put back into place. I

just remember waking up after one part of my back surgery was done, and it felt

like my arm had fallen asleep. I asked my dr. about it, and he said it would go

away, it was the way it had been positioned during the surgery. It never did,

and I waited till I recuperated and went to my family dr., and he saw what

happened, and he was furious! He told me he was dictating everything, in case I

wanted to sue, but pre-surgery, I had never fallen and dislocated my shoulder. I

just let it go, and went through the process of xrays and stuff again. The

neurosurgeon said there was no sense in waiting to try shots or PT, my shoulder

was already frozen, and time would make things worse,

but he wanted me to have my neck fusion done first, he felt that was more

important. I had pinched nerves in my neck, which also affected my arm and

hands, and gave me headaches. They gave me pictures of what

was done, where the bad cartilage and bone spurs and arthritis was. Your dr.

should be able to explain it all to you after. I was unhappy with mine, after I

woke up, I asked the nurse what was done, well, evidently the dr. told me while

I was still under the influence of the anaesthesia, and neither he or the nurse

went out to tell my husband what was done to me! So I had to wait esentially

till my first visit back to the dr. to find out what was done. Maybe you'll have

a better experience with your dr., but make sure they explain it to you when

you're fully awake, or have them tell your husband.

They did tell me it would be easier the first few days to sleep upright, either

in a recliner, or in bed with a lot of pillows propping you up, and it is more

comfortable to wear your sling while you're sleeping-they were correct in

telling me that.

I'll close for now, I know I've gone on and on, but all they really did was

clean up the bone spurs and cartilage, and explore the rotator cuff. Hopefully,

you'll do as well and not have any other damage.

Take care

Jeannie

[Guest guest]

This is my opinion and my opinion only!!!!!!!!!!!!

You get out of it what you put into it. That goes for anything you do. There

are lots of negatives about pharmacy...true! BUT there are so so many

positives. Usually what spoils any place of employment points at the

administrative decision making that you have no input in, or ever see happening.

If positive changes are to be made anywhere the technicians have to take a stand

and make our profession be recognized as one. I have only be a tech for 9 years

now, but have seen so many changes in that short amount of time. I am very

passionate about being a voice, and helping those who truly are advocating our

profession. I think that there are huge differences in ambulatory versus

institutional settings. All depends on who you are working with and what type

of administration you have to support your pharmacy.

Be positive, and go into it with an open mind and be excited you are embarking

on a promising future. Be a voice for change!!

So there is my ...again...opinion.

Ginger

pattivialpando <pattivialpando@...> wrote:

Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College in Beaverton, Oregon. I

have heard some negative comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so negative about what they are

doing?

Trish referred me to you website and so far I really like what I ready

each time I log on. Thanks for all the great info.

[Guest guest]

basically its how the patients treat you. If you have

ever worked in fast food think of your crabbiest

customer and then make them sick. I worked in fast

food before becoming a tech--i went to hospital as i

had enough of dealing with the public.

--- pattivialpando <pattivialpando@...> wrote:

Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College

in Beaverton, Oregon. I have heard some negative

comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

negative about what they are doing?

Trish referred me to you website and so far I really

like what I ready each time I log on. Thanks for all

the great info.

" If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be. "

- Yogi Berra

ONLY AFTER YOU'VE LOST EVERYTHING ARE YOU FREE TO DO ANYTHING

like myspace? try yuwie! http://r.yuwie.com/katbird_27

if you have the time to click on an e-mail link like this one:

http://www.sendmoreinfo.com/ID/2425657

you really can earn some extra cash!

even easier just get paid to surf! http://www.agloco.com/r/BBBP9226

________________________________________________________________________________\

____

Looking for last minute shopping deals?

Find them fast with Search.

http://tools.search./newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

[Guest guest]

Good perspective Karin....Retail is retail, whether it be in a pharmacy,

conveinence store, department store, fast food etccc.... we all get crabby

customers...even in the hospitals...nurses can be super crabby!!!!!!!!!

Ginger

karin h <hockeykatbird_27@...> wrote:

basically its how the patients treat you. If you have

ever worked in fast food think of your crabbiest

customer and then make them sick. I worked in fast

food before becoming a tech--i went to hospital as i

had enough of dealing with the public.

--- pattivialpando <pattivialpando@...> wrote:

Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College

in Beaverton, Oregon. I have heard some negative

comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

negative about what they are doing?

Trish referred me to you website and so far I really

like what I ready each time I log on. Thanks for all

the great info.

" If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be. "

- Yogi Berra

ONLY AFTER YOU'VE LOST EVERYTHING ARE YOU FREE TO DO ANYTHING

like myspace? try yuwie! http://r.yuwie.com/katbird_27

if you have the time to click on an e-mail link like this one:

http://www.sendmoreinfo.com/ID/2425657

you really can earn some extra cash!

even easier just get paid to surf! http://www.agloco.com/r/BBBP9226

__________________________________________________________

Looking for last minute shopping deals?

Find them fast with Search.

http://tools.search./newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

[Guest guest]

First of all, Congratulations in comming here to ask for advice and

guidance and to determine if what you heard is true.

Secondly in addition to what Ginger stated I offer this:

1. go to US Department of Labor to find out the necessity or demand

for health care workers specifically pharmacy technicians now and in

the future through 2012 and beyond. It will touch on duties,

responsibilities, working environment, pay, lifting etc.

2. go to www.salary.com to find out the pay rate for techs in your

area/city/state. It is fairly close for California and even breaks up

the pay rate in areas of Ca with northern CA being the highest.

3. Think about WHO is telling you this? Are they employed and

concerned (fearful) that educated techs like yourself who may do an

externship where they work will take over their jobs? They may be

afraid of this and the fear is unfounded. If they are good techs they

have nothing to worry about.

4. some techs who are afraid of this will 'hold back' and NOT train

the tech extern very well. They do this hoping to prove that the

educated tech is not good enough to be hired. They in essence become

jealous. Instead of priding themselves with being allowed and able to

train a new force/a new breed of pharm techs; instead they become

afraid that new techs will take their jobs. So they paint a bad

picture of teching to the externs or new techs and paint a bad picture

of the educated extern techs to the management. Classic case of

professional jeaolousy!SAD really!

I want to be sure that you understand that not all techs who have not

been educated or train externs will react or act this way. But one

bad apple spoils the reputation of the whole good bunch!

Here in CA I have had 1 out of 100 externs encounter this. But here

education is the norm. In other states that are just beginning

education there may be more incidence of this until education and time

catches up.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS

>

> Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College in Beaverton,

Oregon. I have heard some negative comments from some Pharmacy Techs

that work in the retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

negative about what they are doing?

>

> Trish referred me to you website and so far I really like what I ready

> each time I log on. Thanks for all the great info.

>

[Guest guest]

Dear Patti,

Karin also paints a real problem in retail that may be what you were

exposed to by some techs. This type of problem leads to sress and

burn out on the job.

I invite all techs especially retail to openly discuss the problems

associated with patient/customer service that lead to stress and

speaking negatively of this career path. Let's get it out on the table!

I have said over and over again that I could not endure retail and

that it takes a 'special' kind of person to do retail pharmacy. I am a

lab rat and prefer hospital pharmacy pace and type of work.

But someone HAS to do the work of the retail pharmacy. And a patient,

efficient KIND person is what is needed.

Respectfully,

Jeanetta Mastron CPhT BS

Pharm Tech Educator

Founder/Owner of this site

> Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College

> in Beaverton, Oregon. I have heard some negative

> comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

> retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

> negative about what they are doing?

> Trish referred me to you website and so far I really

> like what I ready each time I log on. Thanks for all

> the great info.

>

>

> " If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be. "

> - Yogi Berra

>

> ONLY AFTER YOU'VE LOST EVERYTHING ARE YOU FREE TO DO ANYTHING

>

> like myspace? try yuwie! http://r.yuwie.com/katbird_27

>

> if you have the time to click on an e-mail link like this one:

http://www.sendmoreinfo.com/ID/2425657

> you really can earn some extra cash!

>

> even easier just get paid to surf! http://www.agloco.com/r/BBBP9226

>

>

>

________________________________________________________________________________\

____

> Looking for last minute shopping deals?

> Find them fast with Search.

http://tools.search./newsearch/category.php?category=shopping

>

[Guest guest]

> > Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College

> > in Beaverton, Oregon. I have heard some negative

> > comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

> > retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

> > negative about what they are doing?

> > Trish referred me to you website and so far I really

> > like what I ready each time I log on. Thanks for all

> > the great info.

> >

> >

> > " If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be. "

> > - Yogi Berra

> >

> > ONLY AFTER YOU'VE LOST EVERYTHING ARE YOU FREE TO DO ANYTHING

> >

> > like myspace? try yuwie! http://r.yuwie.com/katbird_27

> >

> > if you have the time to click on an e-mail link like this one:

> http://www.sendmoreinfo.com/ID/2425657

> > you really can earn some extra cash!

> >

> > even easier just get paid to surf!

http://www.agloco.com/r/BBBP9226

> >

> >

> >

>

______________________________________________________________________

______________

> > Looking for last minute shopping deals?

> > Find them fast with Search.

> http://tools.search./newsearch/category.php?

category=shopping

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Dear All,

Please note that I did not write the last entry. But When Sunnygirl/

added her comments the section f Jeanetta wrote the following was removed except

for that one line.

Sunny Thank you for your input.

The 'money tree' (ATM) has been the single main cause or factor of people

becoming more impatient and wanting everything now and 'yesterday'. WE can see

this among nurses who have worked in a hospital with ADM's and moonlight at

hospitals that don't have them. Our society is less respectful as a whole as

well. I am sure anthropologists and sociologists will have much to say in 10

yrs in new text books.

So what would you recommend to one who is pursuing a career change and

specifically pharmacy tech? Do we say ' stay away'? Get out while the going

is good? Or do we say it is like all other career avenues take the bitter with

the sweet?

In the long run for me helping patients even the cranky ones is far better than

not, AND far better than some other jobs that I am glad I don't have to do.

What would you say to those studying here with anticipation of entering a new

career?

Jeanetta

sunnygirl269 <jenn269@...> wrote:

> > Hi I'm a new member and student at Cambridge College

> > in Beaverton, Oregon. I have heard some negative

> > comments from some Pharmacy Techs that work in the

> > retail area of Pharmacy. Why would they be so

> > negative about what they are doing?

> > Trish referred me to you website and so far I really

> > like what I ready each time I log on. Thanks for all

> > the great info.

> >

> >

> > " If the world were perfect, it wouldn't be. "

> > - Yogi Berra

> >

> > ONLY AFTER YOU'VE LOST EVERYTHING ARE YOU FREE TO DO ANYTHING

> >

> > like myspace? try yuwie! http://r.yuwie.com/katbird_27

> >

> > if you have the time to click on an e-mail link like this one:

> http://www.sendmoreinfo.com/ID/2425657

> > you really can earn some extra cash!

> >

> > even easier just get paid to surf!

http://www.agloco.com/r/BBBP9226

> >

> >

> >

>

__________________________________________________________

______________

> > Looking for last minute shopping deals?

> > Find them fast with Search.

> http://tools.search./newsearch/category.php?

category=shopping

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Amy,

Where in Florida are you? I'm in central Florida and see Dr. Visconti.

Six years ago, I became a vegetarian raw foodist so I would not get

cancer. I developed cancer anyway. Was your sister hormone positive?

Or triple negative? Find out what treatments she used. I highly

recommend making sure you are paying attention to your hormones as that

is what I did NOT do.

I am curious as to what Dr. Niles does. I was stage 0, but I am always

dismayed with the stage 4 women in the breast cancer group I subscribe

to who do not care to learn about alternatives and their environment.

It saddens me.

I am also hypothyroid and use Armour.

ar

On Sun, 01 Jun 2008 23:02:44 -0000, " Amelia "

<lakotasiouxgrizzly2006@...> said:

> HI, everyone.

> I'm Amy and I have a sister diagnosed with breast cancer a few years

> back...she has not had cancer come back, she did alternative

> treatments but I'm not sure exactly what. I'm just here to gain

> information, in general.

>

> Also I wanted to share a book that I am currenly reading: The

> Autoimmune Epidemic by Donna Nakazawa. Anyone here read it?

> it's got NEW information in it about why were all sick. Very

> enlightening.

>

> Also I'm working with a Naturopath Dr. Lou Niles out of Florida who

> is a 4th stage cancer doctor. He goes into his patients homes and

> cleans everything out, kind of like a do over! :-) I have

> Hashimoto's..and he's been excellent in directing me in the right

> direction.

>

> Ok, my question is...for those of you here who have " cured " your cancer

> situation...how long did it take with the alternative treatments? just

> wondering...as I embark ona whole foods, locally grown, as organic as

> possible, was just wondering what results you all have had...I will go

> back and read previous posts

>

> Anyway just here to learn.

>

> Thanks!

> ~Amy~

> in Missouri

>

>

> ------------------------------------

>

>

[Guest guest]

Hi, Amy, please advise the contact information of Dr. Niles in Florida.(i.e.

phone #, address, website, etc)

Thanks.

Jim

In a message dated 6/1/2008 8:15:32 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

lakotasiouxgrizzly2006@... writes:

HI, everyone.

I'm Amy and I have a sister diagnosed with breast cancer a few years

back...she has not had cancer come back, she did alternative

treatments but I'm not sure exactly what. I'm just here to gain

information, in general.

Also I wanted to share a book that I am currenly reading: The

Autoimmune Epidemic by Donna Nakazawa. Anyone here read it?

it's got NEW information in it about why were all sick. Very

enlightening.

Also I'm working with a Naturopath Dr. Lou Niles out of Florida who

is a 4th stage cancer doctor. He goes into his patients homes and

cleans everything out, kind of like a do over! :-) I have

Hashimoto's.Hashimoto's.<WBR>.and he's been excellent in directing me

direction.

Ok, my question is...for those of you here who have " cured " your cancer

situation...Ok, my question is...for those of you here who have " cured " your

cancerOk, my question is...for those of you here who have " cured " your cancer

situation...<WBR>how long did it take with the alternative treatments? just

wondering

Anyway just here to learn.

Thanks!

~Amy~

in Missouri

**************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch " Cooking with

Tyler Florence " on AOL Food.

(http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4 & ?NCID=aolfod00030000000002)

[Guest guest]

On Jun 2, 2008, at 11:29 AM, jpking@... wrote:

> In a message dated 6/1/2008 8:15:32 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,

> lakotasiouxgrizzly2006@... writes:

>

> Also I wanted to share a book that I am currenly reading: The

> Autoimmune Epidemic by Donna Nakazawa. Anyone here read it?

> it's got NEW information in it about why were all sick. Very

> enlightening.

>

> Ok, my question is...for those of you here who have " cured " your

> cancer

> situation... how long did it take with the alternative treatments?

> just

> wondering...

Here are testimonies about helping and stabilizing not only cancer but

autoimmune problems. It takes up to 6 months for full effects but

starts working immediately building up the immune system by increasing

production of natural endorphins in the body during sleep.

====================

Hello,

I take Low dose Naltrexone for stage 4B cancer and YES it does stop

the cancer and thus SAVED my life. (Oncologist last meeting, FEb 5th

2007 said I was terminal and get my affairs in order and prepare for

palliative chemo and death.)

But it is NOT a cure, it just stops disease. So if I stop taking LDN

which is inexpensive and no side effects, my cancer will start to grow

again. So I am on it indefinitely but it is far better to take a little

capsule every night than the eternal dirt nap in my book.

LDN does save lives and works for so many diseases, MS, Parkinson's ,

Rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Crohn's and

many others. The best drug in the world in my book... Nobel prize for

Dr. Bihari!

http:www.ldn4cancer.com

LDN_4_cancer/

=====================

From: celia@...

Subject: [LDN_4_cancer] My Story

Date: June 1, 2008 11:11:32 AM PDT

Where do I start with my 'story', it could take quite a while, but I

shall try and condense it as much as possible. My name is Celia and I

live in Scotland, I am in my 50's, so not exactly a spring chick -

but hey - working on it!!

May of 2006 gave me shocking news, that I had a chest full of cancerous

lymph nodes, tears and grief were the most prevalent, grief for the

life I may not have, and for those I would leave behind. The primary

tumour was never found, but I am 'treated' as 'lung' and thus recieved

palliative care only, eight doses of chemo, followed by 12 doses of

radiation, it was expected I had 6 - 12 months of living to do.

I also have/had the following - mild lupus, IBS (so bad sometimes I

dare not go out) , Diverticula, COPD, thyroid problems (had partial

thyroidectomy years ago) osteo arthritis, high blood pressure, high

cholestrol, chronic fatigue.

After my conventional treatment, the Onc was amazed when I went into

remission, he assured me this would not last, that I had less than 1%

of making it. Not for me to accept that! Treatment did not seem to be

forthcoming after that initial work, it was a case of watch and wait,

I will not wait, I will not watch, I went in search for anything that

might help me.

Of course I went on the usual supplements, but knew this was not

enough, changed my diet, but not radically, red meat I could not eat,

and my diet consists mainly of eggs and fish - plus veg and fruit. I

have also discovered a penchant for the darkest chocolate I can find,

at least 85 - 86% cocoa. I read about B17 and went to one of Philip

Day's lectures, I started taking this almost every day in kernel form.

In January 2007 I had a very bad excacerbation of COPD which landed me

in hospital, I came out on 02 and steroids.

I then learned about Iscador, a derivative of the Misteltoe, and

fortunately as there is a homeopathic hospital not too far from me I

got a referral and now use Iscador series two, on a regular basis.

Still I searched the net, and lo and behold came across LDN after never

hearing of it before, it seemed like a miracle, I had to have it, I

fought for it and got it on the NHS so it costs me nothing. I got my

first bottle but did not dare take it, I was on steroids regularly for

my chest, and had to have my hip replaced and was thus on pain killers.

Each night I looked at the bottle, and each night I thought - shall it

be now? As soon as my hip pain began to diminish, and I could come

off the steroids, I counted the days - and then on day ten I took my

first LDN! Don't know why, but I was frightened of it....

My first feelings on LDN were as though I was on a bit of a high, I

felt great, I had some disturbed nights, not too many strange dreams,

and have worked out by now when it is best for me to take it. This is

usually about 9 - 30 pm, and as I take sleepers an hour later this

seems to be working for me. At the time of writing - (1st June 2008)

I have been on LDN for about eight months.

Very soon after staring the LDN I found I did not need the 02 for my

COPD, I only need to nebulise maybe once a day - if that, and today I

walked the furthest I have been able to for what seems ages, it was a

miracle, still can't believe I did it! One thing I noticed early on

was that I was not spending half my life in the loo.... I had been

referred for another sigmoidoscopy but cancelled it, to this day I have

never had the bowel problem like I did before LDN....

My energy began to return, I had had chronic fatigue for many years,

but slowly I am getting more energetic, I was fit enough to have a hip

replacement about six months ago - oh the relief!! My last X ray shows

no signs of the cancer which was supposed to have killed me over a year

ago, my blood pressure is now normal after being too high for a few

years, I had to come off BP medications, my lupus does not bother me at

all.. I have a good appetite and am gaining weight, I feel quite good

all things considered, and I recommend LDN to everyone!

Celia

This may be used in any publication whatsoever......