These posts look pretty old, but i am going to join in the discussion with the idea there is always someone new joing up (like me).

History of back problems for almost 20 years before i was diagnosed with DISH. Before that it was just called degenerative disc disease and i was told "everyone got that". Well, 4 back surgeries (2 spinal fusions within 2 years) and a neck surgery. Looking at another spinal fusion (which will make it S1-L2) sometime this year. It has been quite an education. The XRAYs show growths on all my vertebrae fusing with the vertebrae above and below them. Arthritis simply everywhere. Knee surgery. Shoulder surgery. Ankle issues. It is slow but it never goes away.

The worst part is the lack of sleep (due to pain). Which makes it harder to power through the day. I have some exercises i learned in PT. i try to do some walking. Best results from just adjusting my routine, Investing in DME - handrails for the toilet and bath, a bench for the bath, grabber tools. JUst finding ways to make every day tasks easier and safer. There are some medications, but i hate taking a handful of pills 3 times a day.

There is also the diabetes and sleep apena. And last year a diagnosis of Parkinson's. Makes it hard to enjoy my hobbies, but giving up is the worst thing you can do. Find strength in things you love. In friends and family. Wait for a cure.