Hi Renee,

We are all different in finding what works for us. So, this is what has worked for me.

With the help of my PCP, because she was and still is, my first line of defense. She has referred me to physical therapy and having an MRI. It gave us the picture she needed to help me see what was really wrong.

I have tried conventional treatment first. NSAID's (aleve) which, alone, had worked good for a while. Then I got relief by stretching and doing yoga, this helps even now to keep me somewhat loose, ice packs and warm compresses (Thermacare) helps in a pinch.

Since my original dx back in 1999, My osteoarthritis in my spine now has progressed.

My cervical spine, thoracic and lumbar spine has now degenerated even more. Guess with time (30 yrs), aging (54) and the fact that I had worked for 28 years doing very physical labor that included loading and unloading tractor trailers and the repetitive motions had increased my pain and discomfort. So much so, that I have had to take steroids, off and on, to ease the severe pain.

I have long since retired from that profession and I am still in pain from the facet joints.

They say that the Facet Arthropathy (fancy word for arthritis) contributes to, my now, bilateral foraminal stenosis. It is moderate to severe on the left and right side of the spine. The nerves are now being compressed and causing me extreme pain.

Now, I am back into physical therapy, another MRI to see if any damage has progressed to the point where I might need surgery.

Just to let you know, that, I am a high tolerance pain person. I can put up with alot of pain before I head to the PCP for help. She gets mad at me at times for not coming in earlier.

For me, my chiropractor is invaluable. He helps me in ways that my PCP and drugs can not. He does not do the twisting and cracking of my spine like others like to do. Needless to say, I am very protective now of my spine and the pain I might endure He is able to keep my spine aligned to help it heal itself. (your spine is like a hose with water, step on the hose, the water cant flow properly, same with your spine. can not have interference to have a healthy spine)

Renee, you need to find out what works for you! What can give you relief and what does not. And who has your back when you need them most.

My PCP, chiropractor, physical therapist, orthopedist and neurologist all help me in my care. The only specialist have not tried is a Rheumatologist. My PCP said they might be able to help in my care.

I also have my faith in God. He is the great physician and healer. He has helped me when no one else could. I prayed for good doctors and he has given me them ten fold.

So that is me and what works for me in a nut shell (sorry so long).

Praying you find the relief and help you need to keep you pain free.

The people on here are invaluable too. We are all in this together and to be there for each other.

Let us know how you are doing. Keep in touch and here is your group hug from us

God Bless you Renee!