I was x-rayed and told I had spinal stenosis and terrible arthritis in my back but nothing was suggested except anti-inflammatories which I took for years but my back only got worse. The doctor said there was nothing I could do, but I stayed active and gardened every year. I did massage and some gym exercise when I could afford it, but gave up in discouragement. Sometimes at the gym I would lie on the floor and cry from the pain. It helped when the trainer pushed my legs with knees bent, pumping the muscles a little at a time and holding the stretch. The massages gave a little temporary relief. When I lost weight from treating the diabetes, that gave some relief. Finally the pain was constant every day and the doctor wanted me to be on addictive pain meds for an entire winter before further evaluation. I couldn't bear that, so I talked my way into a surgeon's office. The surgery was very serious, and I have a metal cage in my back. It was high risk but I had to resort to surgery which took three years for recovery. I can still garden a little and walk short distances. Dorisena

I have found gentle yoga type stretches do help greatly, am working with a new therapist who has helped me with balance issues. You might have to look hard to find a therapist who understands chronic spinal conditions rather than a therapist who works mainly with sport and surgical recovery.

Will do thanks Ray