BeeZee
Hi...I was browsing through the Health Forum info. re:spinal stenosis. I had cervical spine surgery with fusion at 3-4 level, about 10 yrs. ago. I was unable to lift my head off my chest and the pain was horrible. I think the surgery was needed and I seem to be O.K. with that part of me now. However, I now have sp.stenoisis in my lumbar spine...sciatica pain in both hips, buttocks, lower back radiating down both legs, with some weakness at times. I have had two epidural steroid injections, which do seem to help. Now, about Fibro. please get to a doc. and have the workup for fibro. (pressure point exam, and full physical.) I was diagnosed about 15 yrs. ago. I have severe pain in all the "trigger points" "fibro. fog" and other realated symptoms. I finally found a doc. who seemed interested in helping me and who actually had heard of this syndrome. Exercise is important, if you can to it...especially water exercise. I walk when I can. I had knee replacement surgery a year ago...it was very difficult, but it is O.K. now. My doc. has given me some medications which help a little. The poor sleep pattern is I think, the worst part of this thing, and now it is being considered as a cause, but they really do no know where it comes from. I wish you luck with whatever you decide to do. I thank God every day for my blessings, but not for having this...take care..Bzfrank@aol.com Oh, if the Dr. even hints that it might be "all in your head" go to nearest exit and try another doc. Mine is a primary care doc. Rheumatologists and some Neurologists are also good sources of help. I was diagnosed by a Neurologist. Bye