crn--I agree with your view about physical therapy, especially for folks dealing with multiple spinal problems. I am doing PT as I have neuropathy, degenerative disk disease, osteoporosis. Plus, I have a diagnosis of celiac disease which may have caused muscle wasting in my glutes. I saw an acupuncturist today--he is steeped in eastern medicine. He said PT could be beneficial in building me up but it must go slowly or I could end up with more problems. So now I will try to cultivate patience, take the supplements he suggested and do epsom salt bath--no more ice.