Guest guest Posted February 24, 2009 Report Share Posted February 24, 2009 Dawn, I hate to tell you this, but I have had this disease for 40 years, and before it's over, you are going to have pain everywhere. I have been having a flare right now myself, and my neck is the only thing that doesn't hurt this time. But if you can swing it, go get a therapeutic massage. They help so much. It is time for me to go get one, but it is too wet out, and I have an electric wheelchair and the batteries are in the bottom, and are not supposed to get wet. I am 59, just so you know that too. I have been really fighting this stuff hard since 1996. My husband divorced me, and it took me out of remission, hasn't gone back in yet. I am kind of on the down side of it now. But good luck to you. Just try to stay calm and don't take life to seriously. If you can get Remicaid or one of those drugs, you will be really on top of it. Take care, D. Oregon From: dawngirl1963@... Date: Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:15:40 +0000 Subject: neck pain i have been experiencing severe neck pain lately and i was wondering if this common...i have these episodes three or four times before...it feels like my neck is going to be ripped from my head...i was diagnosed with reiters in 2005....but i have been told that possibly i may develop as is the neck pain an indication of that.... i would appreciate any input and info thank you........Dawn _________________________________________________________________ Access your email online and on the go with Windows Live Hotmail. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Access_022009 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 25, 2009 Report Share Posted February 25, 2009 jeepers im a newbie and im not sure how to reply without the body of the original message....ummm but i have to go for a dorsal column stimulator on the fourth of march..and they say that im not supposed to get mri's and my rheumatologist says dont get the dcs cause we might have to do enbrel? what one is it that they take you into a separate room cost is 3000 a month? i am unfortunate enough to have ddd and Rea.. From: elizabethfaye@... Date: Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:55:18 -0800 Subject: RE: neck pain Dawn, I hate to tell you this, but I have had this disease for 40 years, and before it's over, you are going to have pain everywhere. I have been having a flare right now myself, and my neck is the only thing that doesn't hurt this time. But if you can swing it, go get a therapeutic massage. They help so much. It is time for me to go get one, but it is too wet out, and I have an electric wheelchair and the batteries are in the bottom, and are not supposed to get wet. I am 59, just so you know that too. I have been really fighting this stuff hard since 1996. My husband divorced me, and it took me out of remission, hasn't gone back in yet. I am kind of on the down side of it now. But good luck to you. Just try to stay calm and don't take life to seriously. If you can get Remicaid or one of those drugs, you will be really on top of it. Take care, D. Oregon From: dawngirl1963@... Date: Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:15:40 +0000 Subject: neck pain i have been experiencing severe neck pain lately and i was wondering if this common...i have these episodes three or four times before...it feels like my neck is going to be ripped from my head...i was diagnosed with reiters in 2005....but i have been told that possibly i may develop as is the neck pain an indication of that.... i would appreciate any input and info thank you........Dawn __________________________________________________________ Access your email online and on the go with Windows Live Hotmail. http://windowslive.com/online/hotmail?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_HM_AE_Access_022009 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 25, 2009 Report Share Posted February 25, 2009 Hi Dawn Dont know what a dsc Is, Y arnt u allowed MRI ? I have ReA and DDD and inflam bowel also, Enbrel has helped me, but not my neck because the discs are gone, mb Xrays might just help...Im in England and I know you can have Enbrel by Self Injection, or by having a fusion every 8 weeks, but that takes 4 hours in hosp, My Bilogics nursse said to not go into hosp as i would catch all the bugs etc, better my self injecting... You do need to see the state of your Neck discs though, By the way Didn't u have MRIs to discover that you Have DDD? or how could they diagnose that? take care Jill Uk Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 25, 2009 Report Share Posted February 25, 2009 In regards to your question about neck pain, I have had ReA for 7 months now. I am 99% sure that I have AS too, although it is undiagnosed. I have had bad pain running along either side of my spine, from my lower back through my neck for about 5 months now. When it gets bad I can't turn my head at all--this sounds like what you are talking about. I have found that Indomethacin (an anti-inflammatory) helps a ton. I take 50mg capsules 3 times a day. Sometime I get the feeling that it isn't working so well and decide to skip a dose; wIthin a few hours I can barely move. The stuff really works for me. -- ____________________________________________________________________ View my photos at http://_Long.dpcprints.com/ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 25, 2009 Report Share Posted February 25, 2009 I get bouts of neck pain. When I get it I can't turn my head-so it makes it very difficult to drive, especially since my right eye is nearly blind from my uveitis problems. I have psoriatic arthritis. Bonnie Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted February 26, 2009 Report Share Posted February 26, 2009 > dsc is acronym for dorsal column stimulator hopefully it will help in controllingnerve pain... and actually i had an appt today pre procedure and asked again about the mri's and they informed that yes i will be able to have an mri if necessary in the future as long as they use a tesla 6 mri machine ...whatever that means and my ddd was diagnosed through many years of mris xrays ...my concern about mri is that i feel that i have some issues in my neck that may need to be addressed in the future. so i was misinformed originally about mri issue. andi was also concerned initially about rheumatologists concern.but my fears have been allayed and im going forward with dsc to try to get that area under control and then concentrate completely on ReA issue without distraction Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 4, 2009 Report Share Posted April 4, 2009 Thank you to the discussion on the neck pain. I have also experienced lower skull/neck pain and migraines. I was wondering if it was all related. Sounds like a possiblity, from your discussions. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 15, 2009 Report Share Posted April 15, 2009 I could not see the attachment. Is there a site I could go to see the pic? Thanks, > > > > > > Thank you to the discussion on the neck pain. I have also experienced > > lower skull/neck pain and migraines. I was wondering if it was all related. > > Sounds like a possiblity, from your discussions. > > > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 26, 2010 Report Share Posted August 26, 2010 Would an MRI show anything else? Like if there was a growth anywhere or if my spine is out of line? Weird thing is that I don't feel I have any sinus problems. My Mom also thought maybe a medication could cause this, but the only new thing I'm taking is omiprizall I'm sure that's not spelled right. The side effects didn't say anything about neck pain, but I wonder if it's taking something up into my thyroid gland and if my gland isn't working that maybe it swells when something goes into it like iodine etc. In a message dated 8/26/2010 11:21:34 A.M. Central Daylight Time, matchermaam@... writes: They can also do an MRI of your head and see all the sinus cavities and that will tell them if they are partially or fully blocked and they should also be able to see your septum to see if it's deviated. All of this is pretty fast, non invasive. <>Roni Immortality exists! It's called knowledge! Just because something isn't seen doesn't mean it's not there<> From: tyblossom@... <tyblossom@...> Subject: neck pain hypothyroidism Date: Thursday, August 26, 2010, 4:20 AM I've been having neck pain for the past couple weeks with a swollen lymph node. The node has gone down, but still seems a little swollen. My neck was worse, but still feel it and it doesn't seem to be going away. I went to the doctor and one said it wasn't thyroid related and it was post nasal drip. The other one said probably sinus, and not likely thyroid, but if it doesn't stop they will do a endoscopy which I've had before for other problems. Just curious if anyone else has had this problem as I've seen neck pain as a symptom, but never had it except once. I was told by someone on this list a year or so ago about using iodine. I tried it and for a week my neck was swollen like this. I think maybe because my thyroid just is shriveled up(it's not working at all), that when the iodine went there, it swelled. Just a guess though. Does anyone have any thoughts about this? [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ To unsubscribe, send blank message to: hypothyroidism-unsubscribe Web Sites: Curing Protocol: http://curezone.com/dis/1.asp?C0=842 Forum: http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=25 Books: http://curezone.com/books/best/categoryx.asp?CAT=842 Cleansing: http://curezone.com/cleanse/ Liver Flush: http://curezone.com/cleanse/liver/ Foods: http://CureZone.com/foods/ Diet: http://CureZone.com/diet/ Teeth: http://curezone.com/dental/ change status to digest: hypothyroidism-digest change to normal: hypothyroidism-normal To subscribe: hypothyroidism-subscribe Have a nice day ! Links [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ To unsubscribe, send blank message to: hypothyroidism-unsubscribe Web Sites: Curing Protocol: http://curezone.com/dis/1.asp?C0=842 Forum: http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=25 Books: http://curezone.com/books/best/categoryx.asp?CAT=842 Cleansing: http://curezone.com/cleanse/ Liver Flush: http://curezone.com/cleanse/liver/ Foods: http://CureZone.com/foods/ Diet: http://CureZone.com/diet/ Teeth: http://curezone.com/dental/ change status to digest: hypothyroidism-digest change to normal: hypothyroidism-normal To subscribe: hypothyroidism-subscribe Have a nice day ! Links Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 26, 2010 Report Share Posted August 26, 2010 They can also do an MRI of your head and see all the sinus cavities and that will tell them if they are partially or fully blocked and they should also be able to see your septum to see if it's deviated. All of this is pretty fast, non invasive. <>Roni Immortality exists! It's called knowledge!  Just because something isn't seen doesn't mean it's not there<> From: tyblossom@... <tyblossom@...> Subject: neck pain hypothyroidism Date: Thursday, August 26, 2010, 4:20 AM I've been having neck pain for the past couple weeks with a swollen lymph node. The node has gone down, but still seems a little swollen. My neck was worse, but still feel it and it doesn't seem to be going away. I went to the doctor and one said it wasn't thyroid related and it was post nasal drip. The other one said probably sinus, and not likely thyroid, but if it doesn't stop they will do a endoscopy which I've had before for other problems. Just curious if anyone else has had this problem as I've seen neck pain as a symptom, but never had it except once. I was told by someone on this list a year or so ago about using iodine. I tried it and for a week my neck was swollen like this. I think maybe because my thyroid just is shriveled up(it's not working at all), that when the iodine went there, it swelled. Just a guess though. Does anyone have any thoughts about this? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 26, 2010 Report Share Posted August 26, 2010 An MRI of your head will show what is going on inside it. An MRI of any or all of your spine will show what is going on there. Yes it will show disalignment. <>Roni Immortality exists! It's called knowledge!  Just because something isn't seen doesn't mean it's not there<> From: tyblossom@... <tyblossom@...> Subject: neck pain To: hypothyroidism Date: Thursday, August 26, 2010, 4:20 AM I've been having neck pain for the past couple weeks with a swollen lymph node. The node has gone down, but still seems a little swollen. My neck was worse, but still feel it and it doesn't seem to be going away. I went to the doctor and one said it wasn't thyroid related and it was post nasal drip. The other one said probably sinus, and not likely thyroid, but if it doesn't stop they will do a endoscopy which I've had before for other problems. Just curious if anyone else has had this problem as I've seen neck pain as a symptom, but never had it except once. I was told by someone on this list a year or so ago about using iodine. I tried it and for a week my neck was swollen like this. I think maybe because my thyroid just is shriveled up(it's not working at all), that when the iodine went there, it swelled. Just a guess though. Does anyone have any thoughts about this? [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ To unsubscribe, send blank message to: hypothyroidism-unsubscribe Web Sites: Curing Protocol: http://curezone.com/dis/1.asp?C0=842 Forum:   http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=25 Books:   http://curezone.com/books/best/categoryx.asp?CAT=842 Cleansing:   http://curezone.com/cleanse/ Liver Flush:   http://curezone.com/cleanse/liver/ Foods:   http://CureZone.com/foods/ Diet:   http://CureZone.com/diet/ Teeth:   http://curezone.com/dental/ change status to digest:   hypothyroidism-digest change to normal:   hypothyroidism-normal To subscribe: hypothyroidism-subscribe Have a nice day ! Links [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] ------------------------------------ To unsubscribe, send blank message to: hypothyroidism-unsubscribe Web Sites: Curing Protocol: http://curezone.com/dis/1.asp?C0=842 Forum:   http://curezone.com/forums/f.asp?f=25 Books:   http://curezone.com/books/best/categoryx.asp?CAT=842 Cleansing:   http://curezone.com/cleanse/ Liver Flush:   http://curezone.com/cleanse/liver/ Foods:   http://CureZone.com/foods/ Diet:   http://CureZone.com/diet/ Teeth:   http://curezone.com/dental/ change status to digest:   hypothyroidism-digest change to normal:   hypothyroidism-normal To subscribe: hypothyroidism-subscribe Have a nice day ! Links Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted August 27, 2010 Report Share Posted August 27, 2010 tyblossom@... wrote: > > > ... I was told by someone on this list > a year or so ago about using iodine. I tried it and for a week my neck > was > swollen like this. I think maybe because my thyroid just is shriveled > up(it's not working at all), that when the iodine went there, it > swelled. Just > a guess though. > I agree with your doctor. Lymph swelling is most likely a response to an infection and unrelated to the thyroid. Excess iodine is a diuretic, so most of it flushes, while some goes to breast, salivary glands, and muscle tissue. It doesn't accumulate in lymph nodes. Chuck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Carol Ann, I am so sorry to hear that you are suffering.  I don't know where you live, but I would go to a neurologist.  They have a different opinion on things.  At least to get another opinion.  I found, prior to my surgery, that acupuncture really helped with the pain.  I also went to a chiropractor and a PT, but acupuncture helped by far the most.  I wish you all the best. Debbie From: Carol Ann Pittman <DPITTMAN1@...> Subject: Neck Pain neck pain Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 9:22 PM  I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. Carol Ann Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Carol Ann, I am so sorry to hear that you are suffering.  I don't know where you live, but I would go to a neurologist.  They have a different opinion on things.  At least to get another opinion.  I found, prior to my surgery, that acupuncture really helped with the pain.  I also went to a chiropractor and a PT, but acupuncture helped by far the most.  I wish you all the best. Debbie From: Carol Ann Pittman <DPITTMAN1@...> Subject: Neck Pain neck pain Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 9:22 PM  I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. Carol Ann Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Carol Ann, I am so sorry to hear that you are suffering.  I don't know where you live, but I would go to a neurologist.  They have a different opinion on things.  At least to get another opinion.  I found, prior to my surgery, that acupuncture really helped with the pain.  I also went to a chiropractor and a PT, but acupuncture helped by far the most.  I wish you all the best. Debbie From: Carol Ann Pittman <DPITTMAN1@...> Subject: Neck Pain neck pain Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 9:22 PM  I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. Carol Ann Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Carol Ann, I am so sorry to hear that you are suffering.  I don't know where you live, but I would go to a neurologist.  They have a different opinion on things.  At least to get another opinion.  I found, prior to my surgery, that acupuncture really helped with the pain.  I also went to a chiropractor and a PT, but acupuncture helped by far the most.  I wish you all the best. Debbie From: Carol Ann Pittman <DPITTMAN1@...> Subject: Neck Pain neck pain Date: Tuesday, April 26, 2011, 9:22 PM  I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. Carol Ann Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Welcome Carol Ann I am Annie ( ANN) a published writer and vocalist employed but at my own hours. A professor of literature and creative writing at the U of Fl. I was assaulted in 2005 and because of the injuries sustained from that, I am dealing with chronic pain in my discs-- and shoulders-- I get injections for pain and also take a narcotic. I swim, use ice and forge on-- My orthopedic says I am not a candidate for surgery right now but I am not ever going to consider it, for it would go in through my throat and there is a 4% chance of injury to my chords and in my business, I cant afford to lose my musicality. I also have PMR and Fibro two autoimmune diseases-- that are adding to my chronic pain. The injections to my spine and hips for bursitis help me greatly. Welcome again, Carol Ann. I am in N Florida, live with my Doberman on 7 acres of wooded acreage. Regards-  A poet is, most of all , to see ________________________________ From: Dave Cruikshank <d.cruikshank@...> neck pain Sent: Tue, April 26, 2011 11:25:08 PM Subject: Re: Neck Pain At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Welcome Carol Ann I am Annie ( ANN) a published writer and vocalist employed but at my own hours. A professor of literature and creative writing at the U of Fl. I was assaulted in 2005 and because of the injuries sustained from that, I am dealing with chronic pain in my discs-- and shoulders-- I get injections for pain and also take a narcotic. I swim, use ice and forge on-- My orthopedic says I am not a candidate for surgery right now but I am not ever going to consider it, for it would go in through my throat and there is a 4% chance of injury to my chords and in my business, I cant afford to lose my musicality. I also have PMR and Fibro two autoimmune diseases-- that are adding to my chronic pain. The injections to my spine and hips for bursitis help me greatly. Welcome again, Carol Ann. I am in N Florida, live with my Doberman on 7 acres of wooded acreage. Regards-  A poet is, most of all , to see ________________________________ From: Dave Cruikshank <d.cruikshank@...> neck pain Sent: Tue, April 26, 2011 11:25:08 PM Subject: Re: Neck Pain At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Welcome Carol Ann I am Annie ( ANN) a published writer and vocalist employed but at my own hours. A professor of literature and creative writing at the U of Fl. I was assaulted in 2005 and because of the injuries sustained from that, I am dealing with chronic pain in my discs-- and shoulders-- I get injections for pain and also take a narcotic. I swim, use ice and forge on-- My orthopedic says I am not a candidate for surgery right now but I am not ever going to consider it, for it would go in through my throat and there is a 4% chance of injury to my chords and in my business, I cant afford to lose my musicality. I also have PMR and Fibro two autoimmune diseases-- that are adding to my chronic pain. The injections to my spine and hips for bursitis help me greatly. Welcome again, Carol Ann. I am in N Florida, live with my Doberman on 7 acres of wooded acreage. Regards-  A poet is, most of all , to see ________________________________ From: Dave Cruikshank <d.cruikshank@...> neck pain Sent: Tue, April 26, 2011 11:25:08 PM Subject: Re: Neck Pain At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 26, 2011 Report Share Posted April 26, 2011 Welcome Carol Ann I am Annie ( ANN) a published writer and vocalist employed but at my own hours. A professor of literature and creative writing at the U of Fl. I was assaulted in 2005 and because of the injuries sustained from that, I am dealing with chronic pain in my discs-- and shoulders-- I get injections for pain and also take a narcotic. I swim, use ice and forge on-- My orthopedic says I am not a candidate for surgery right now but I am not ever going to consider it, for it would go in through my throat and there is a 4% chance of injury to my chords and in my business, I cant afford to lose my musicality. I also have PMR and Fibro two autoimmune diseases-- that are adding to my chronic pain. The injections to my spine and hips for bursitis help me greatly. Welcome again, Carol Ann. I am in N Florida, live with my Doberman on 7 acres of wooded acreage. Regards-  A poet is, most of all , to see ________________________________ From: Dave Cruikshank <d.cruikshank@...> neck pain Sent: Tue, April 26, 2011 11:25:08 PM Subject: Re: Neck Pain At 10:22 PM 4/26/2011, you wrote: > > >I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I >have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I just wanted to take a minute to welcome you to the group. I'm a moderator here. My issues are 3 back surgeries the last two with fusions up to 4 levels lower back. And 1 neck surgery with fusion 2 levels. I've been in chronic pain and on narcotics since 2000. My wife also has similar issues, though not as severe with her neck and suffers from chronic migraines. She has been all over and taken all treatments for headache relief. My understanding is Arthritis is inflammation of the joints correct? For me I get some relief from using very cold ice packs, placed in a sleeve they come with and then wrapped in a lightweight towel. They give me very good non-pharmaceutical relief. I also get much help from a certified medical massage therapist. I don't know if he/they can help with arthritis. I guess I generally hear of arthritis patients using heat for relief though I've been told on good authority to never use heat on inflamed joints. There are many similar souls here all willing to help. So I hope you find some relief and if not at least a community that understands. Btw I am now 50. My back surgeries started at age 22. I am also on disability after trying to work for 5 years after my last two surgeries and then fighting for social security disability insurance for 2.5 years. So come on good folks, please jump in and make Carol Ann Welcome. ------------------------------------ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 27, 2011 Report Share Posted April 27, 2011 Dear Carol Ann, I have the same problems as you do. Although I am 59 years old now. But when I was 30, the orthopedist looking at my cervical spine CT said I had the neck of a 50 year old football player. Also I have diffuse developmental spinal canal narrowing in both my neck and my lower back. So all the bone spurs that cause spinal stenosis impinge on nerves and spinal cord much more easily. I've seen 3 spine doctors (all three said the nerve impingement was not enough to warrant surgery and a 3 level fusion is not to be undertaken unless I had more damage), been treated by 4 physical therapists, had multiple steroid epidurals and facet joint injections, oral steroids, acupuncture, seen 2 pain doctors etc etc. Finally I found an exercise that actually helped and it wasn't any of the neck pts that showed me. It was when I had torn rotator cuffs in both shoulders that a PT showed me an exercise he called fixing the shoulder blades that helped my neck of all things. This exercise strengthened the upper back and shoulder muscles that were weakened from my hunched over posture. When I looked a my profile in a mirror, I realized that this exercise realigned my neck so it wasn't forward all the time, but squarely on my shoulders. Doing this exercise for 2-3 months and consciously keeping my chest pushed out and my back straight resulted in a major lessening of my neck pain. Also now I could lift my head off the pillow when I was laying on my back. For a long time before my neck muscles in front had been terribly weak and the back neck muscles so over taxed that they spasmed all the time and could not heal. I could tell people till I was blue in the face that posture and resulting muscle weakness in upper back sets up the neck to suffer chronic pain after an accident or acute neck strain. But no one listens except the receptionist at my dentist's office, and she thanks me profusely every time I see her. I finally did find a physical therapist, who concentrates on fixing the posture and upper back muscle and shoulder strength, before ever doing direct neck exercises. She is a professor of PT in Australia of all places. Here is a web site with an interview of her. http://www.physicaltherapycontinuingeducation.org/current-interviews/ (Her name is Grendolen Jull, PhD) If you are interested I can give you instructions on how to do the exercise. You also need the proper set-up which is two mirrors, one in back, like mirrored wardrobe doors and one in front attached to a wall so you can adjust to see your back reflected in the other mirror. Or maybe you can find a PT who can help you do the exercises. Email me directly if you like. Good luck, Rochelle > > I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. > > Carol Ann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 27, 2011 Report Share Posted April 27, 2011 Dear Carol Ann, I have the same problems as you do. Although I am 59 years old now. But when I was 30, the orthopedist looking at my cervical spine CT said I had the neck of a 50 year old football player. Also I have diffuse developmental spinal canal narrowing in both my neck and my lower back. So all the bone spurs that cause spinal stenosis impinge on nerves and spinal cord much more easily. I've seen 3 spine doctors (all three said the nerve impingement was not enough to warrant surgery and a 3 level fusion is not to be undertaken unless I had more damage), been treated by 4 physical therapists, had multiple steroid epidurals and facet joint injections, oral steroids, acupuncture, seen 2 pain doctors etc etc. Finally I found an exercise that actually helped and it wasn't any of the neck pts that showed me. It was when I had torn rotator cuffs in both shoulders that a PT showed me an exercise he called fixing the shoulder blades that helped my neck of all things. This exercise strengthened the upper back and shoulder muscles that were weakened from my hunched over posture. When I looked a my profile in a mirror, I realized that this exercise realigned my neck so it wasn't forward all the time, but squarely on my shoulders. Doing this exercise for 2-3 months and consciously keeping my chest pushed out and my back straight resulted in a major lessening of my neck pain. Also now I could lift my head off the pillow when I was laying on my back. For a long time before my neck muscles in front had been terribly weak and the back neck muscles so over taxed that they spasmed all the time and could not heal. I could tell people till I was blue in the face that posture and resulting muscle weakness in upper back sets up the neck to suffer chronic pain after an accident or acute neck strain. But no one listens except the receptionist at my dentist's office, and she thanks me profusely every time I see her. I finally did find a physical therapist, who concentrates on fixing the posture and upper back muscle and shoulder strength, before ever doing direct neck exercises. She is a professor of PT in Australia of all places. Here is a web site with an interview of her. http://www.physicaltherapycontinuingeducation.org/current-interviews/ (Her name is Grendolen Jull, PhD) If you are interested I can give you instructions on how to do the exercise. You also need the proper set-up which is two mirrors, one in back, like mirrored wardrobe doors and one in front attached to a wall so you can adjust to see your back reflected in the other mirror. Or maybe you can find a PT who can help you do the exercises. Email me directly if you like. Good luck, Rochelle > > I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. > > Carol Ann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted April 27, 2011 Report Share Posted April 27, 2011 Dear Carol Ann, I have the same problems as you do. Although I am 59 years old now. But when I was 30, the orthopedist looking at my cervical spine CT said I had the neck of a 50 year old football player. Also I have diffuse developmental spinal canal narrowing in both my neck and my lower back. So all the bone spurs that cause spinal stenosis impinge on nerves and spinal cord much more easily. I've seen 3 spine doctors (all three said the nerve impingement was not enough to warrant surgery and a 3 level fusion is not to be undertaken unless I had more damage), been treated by 4 physical therapists, had multiple steroid epidurals and facet joint injections, oral steroids, acupuncture, seen 2 pain doctors etc etc. Finally I found an exercise that actually helped and it wasn't any of the neck pts that showed me. It was when I had torn rotator cuffs in both shoulders that a PT showed me an exercise he called fixing the shoulder blades that helped my neck of all things. This exercise strengthened the upper back and shoulder muscles that were weakened from my hunched over posture. When I looked a my profile in a mirror, I realized that this exercise realigned my neck so it wasn't forward all the time, but squarely on my shoulders. Doing this exercise for 2-3 months and consciously keeping my chest pushed out and my back straight resulted in a major lessening of my neck pain. Also now I could lift my head off the pillow when I was laying on my back. For a long time before my neck muscles in front had been terribly weak and the back neck muscles so over taxed that they spasmed all the time and could not heal. I could tell people till I was blue in the face that posture and resulting muscle weakness in upper back sets up the neck to suffer chronic pain after an accident or acute neck strain. But no one listens except the receptionist at my dentist's office, and she thanks me profusely every time I see her. I finally did find a physical therapist, who concentrates on fixing the posture and upper back muscle and shoulder strength, before ever doing direct neck exercises. She is a professor of PT in Australia of all places. Here is a web site with an interview of her. http://www.physicaltherapycontinuingeducation.org/current-interviews/ (Her name is Grendolen Jull, PhD) If you are interested I can give you instructions on how to do the exercise. You also need the proper set-up which is two mirrors, one in back, like mirrored wardrobe doors and one in front attached to a wall so you can adjust to see your back reflected in the other mirror. Or maybe you can find a PT who can help you do the exercises. Email me directly if you like. Good luck, Rochelle > > I am new to the group. I am 42 years old and my name is Carol Ann. I have been battling neck pain and headaches for over a year. I have done PT, Chiropractics and lots of pain meds. I went to the orthopedic surgeon today and he said I have major arthritis in my neck. My neck reflects being 10 to 15 years older than my real age. I am at a loss, being in so much pain and no real cure:( He suggested an exercise regimen for the rest of my life. I will see the PT he recommended next week. Any advice would be appreciated. He said I was not a candidate for surgery at this time and that if I did it it would only be a temporary fix for 6 months or so. Thanks in Advance. > > Carol Ann > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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