Yes, we know that my platelet levels are too low for surgery, but I was told we'd work it out if it was needed. I do know 2 people with my back problem, in the same area of the back, who have had surgery. One said she wished she had done it 20 years before; the other said it's better than it was but still has some back issues. I'm not on the back surgery wagon train, but I thought I might get a Zoom (or whatever they use) consult as I had an MRI on it about 7 months ago and was told we could use that.

I have to tell you the thought of an epidural injection is not something I'd like to entertain, if possible. I do have osteopenia, and it has gotten worse over the past 10 years. I was told when I tried rehab that I could only get a certain amount of injections because the steroid is bad for your bones - although I believe getting them injected in a specific spot is less damaging to your bones than taking them orally.

I'll get my new TSH levels when I see my doctor, but I believe 6 weeks ago it was 5.580, which I know I didn't describe correctly; I said low where it's actually high, but it means my thyroid isn't working as well, as it should, is that correct? And t4 Free was .88, which I think was in the normal range.

As an aside, health care when I live, I feel, is iffy unless maybe you can afford concierge health care, which I can't. Over the past few years, it's scary how many doctors around here have gone that route. My doctor used to be good, and he probably still is, but because we have a HUGE shortage of primary care doctors here (and nationwide), he doesn't have much time, and I feel that at times, my care isn't what it should be. But there is no way I'd be able to find another primary, so I feel like I can't change. An example is my exhaustion; months ago, my primary said, "Well, you're pushing 70, it's normal." And it wasn't until my doctor at Dana sent him a letter about the TSH tests that they were done.