Connect
Arthritis back pain
Has anyone found a good solution for arthritis? I am 82 with chronic back pain. Have seen 4 neurologists, 3 back surgeons, had epidural injection and ablation. Everyone thinks MRIs of lumbar and thoracic spine look good. The cervical has serious narrowing at C4 C5 and I will be having neck surgery but surgeon says will not help back pain. He feels pain due largely to arthritis. I take Tylenol Arthritis 2 pills (650mg @) - 3 times per day but does not help much. Can't take Advil with chronic kidney disease.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Chronic Pain Support Group.
Connect
You sound a lot like me, I've had spinal fusion procedures done at the C5-C6 and C7-T1 level in my neck, and I have back pain from osteoarthritis in my lower spine. The only thing that helps with my back is prescription strength Alleve.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsThanks for reply. Unfortunately, I can not take aleve with chronic kidney disease stage 3.
How about Radio Frequency Ablation?
Cleveland Clinic promotes RF for spondylosis.
. I know RF works because my cardiologist used it to neutralize aberrant nerve cells in my A-fib.
Now considering it with for both knees (genticular)and vertebral facet joints.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsI have both cervical & lumbar arthritis. I had cervical fusion from C4 to T1. I had minimal cervical pain the first 5 years, now have severe arthritis with bone spur and nerve impingement above the fusion. I have been told by neurosurgeon no more cervical surgery. Ongoing lumbar (low back) arthritis pain. Unstable SI joint. Ask for physical therapy to learn the stretches that can help your low back. The stretching helps me manage this pain, I can walk a little farther after stretching. The physical therapist can teach you about muscle trigger point relief, too. Very helpful. Also, walking is important. There is no cure, just have to learn to manage it. I am retired RN, back pain for 45 years. Now 69 yrs old. I see a rheumatologist, I am on NSAID-etodolac, gabapentin, tramadol. Occasional hydrocodone/tylenol, Cyclobenzaprine for muscle relaxant. Hope that helps. Everyone is different in their physical response to arthritis and management of pain.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsThank you for your information. I agree we have to adjust and reconcile to a different lifestyle. I use a stationary bike and am trying to lose weight. Wish you the best on your life challenges.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 ReactionsThanks. Had this and only helped a short time . The nerves grow back after being ablated.
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
1 ReactionI have opted not to have radio frequency ablation because of no guarantee, everyone has different responses and almost always needs to be repeated.
Usually it has to be repeated after 6 mos or a year. That's a lot of pain relief. I get mine done with fluoroscopy ( check a curacy of injection). When it works it's s real relief.
Yep, had fluoroscopy which merely ensures they are on target . I have to wait for 6 months so
Medicare will cover