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What can help with constant pain in back, hips and legs?
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: May 28 8:15pm | Replies (51)Comment receiving replies
First - surgery is your only answer UNLESS you don't want to stay independent. You didn't say why it wasn't an option so no advice can be given. If you don't have surgery, your vertebrae will fuse by themselves and they will squish the nerve roots that feed the rest of your body, and you will get Foot Drop and, incontinence and be in a wheelchair. I have a feeling it is because you are by yourself. I am 69, and I have been by myself for all of my 5 major joint replacements and fusions. You just deal with it. The best part is life goes on and you get your life back!
If there is something else stopping you, please let us know. Some people decide years too late that the pain sucks and they are ready for surgery at any cost, but the doctor says they can no longer do the surgery because the body is too compromised. This all may sound harsh but you either can take control and regain your life and independence or be controlled and live in a wheelchair in a little room at a facility. If this is your fear (that you are alone with no family) write back and I'll fill you in. By the Grace of God we do go, and people ARE there to help us through these things! For sure. For sure.
Replies to "First - surgery is your only answer UNLESS you don't want to stay independent. You didn't..."
Very good advice Lorie. Getting older isn't for sissies!
For now, I'm avoiding any lumbar fusion. I don't have any sciatica symptoms (and I know exactly what they feel like!). I'm in the gym everyday and do a lot of exercises for my core muscles, which my spinal surgeon says support the L spine.
I have heard a number of people say they are avoiding surgery because they live alone. I understand that concern but it should not prevent someone from getting a needed surgery. It may take some calls and even involving the Dr's office, but support can be found in most cases.
I know a guy at the gym, same age as me, 71, with an inoperable rotator cuff tear. He's had this for 2-3 years - at least. He can't do pushups, pull-ups, chest presses, or bicep curls and his upper body is atrophied. He tries to do these exercises and is very limited by the pain, and is probably doing more damage. I told him I thought he should get the reverse total shoulder replacement to fix this, and I believe he is just afraid of the surgery. I have stopped talking to hm abut this. We are all responsible for our own health, after all - and it's not my place to be making/suggesting decisions for anyone but me.
I had my left shoulder replaced last year (my rotator cuff was intact so the replacement was anatomically correct). I knew it had to be replaced and I did it. Along with both knees replaced in 2022 and my right hip and left shoulder in 2026, I'm a veteran of these surgeries! And my wife was extremely helpful in all of these surgeries and I' certainly grateful. The pain relief after the surgeries was such a joy…….
You rightly point out that if orthopedic surgery is delayed, permanent structural/skeletal damage is possible, most notably in the shoulder if a rotator cuff is beyond repair. IMO this guy is just afraid of the surgery (reverse total shoulder replacement). He'll likely be worse off in a few years. Again, not my decision.
Anyway thanks for pointing that out Lorie. A good surgeon will explain all options - and if they don't 1) ask or 2) find a new surgeon.
Joe
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@loriesco
Thank you for your comment. I appreciate you being direct. When I say I am alone, I am alone. My closest family is 500 miles away and they have full time jobs and children. I have no friends that would help me. I have a special needs dog to take care of. Dr says I would be in the hospital for several days. I have no one that can step in and care for my dog. There would be no one to help when I get home.
I don't trust the medical community. There wouldn't be anyone to advocate for me.
Everything you said makes sense. I do appreciate you laying it out the way you did. You have given me a lot to think about. I am scared and confused.