Thank you both so much for your reply. I didn't know any replies would come so quickly!

I can't figure out how to do multiple replies, so I'll send the same reply to both of you, Broken Wings and glenntaj, if you don't mind

I was living in Seattle a few yrs ago and a PT showed me some balance and coordination excercises. I remember a couple of them, but she said that basically, anything that is difficult is good. I have got to get back on it, I know. I will search balance and gait issues and therapy, thanks. I'm going to start the vitamin regimen suggested on the boards. I've known about it for some time, but have put it off because of financial considerations. That's dumb, though, I know. It should be high on the list of expenses and I will check out iherbs.com for Methyl B-12 5000.

"One of the nasty things about diagnosing neural symptoms is that issues with the spine, from cord compression to nerve root compromise, can be exactly mimicked by those of more systemic problems such as alcohol-mediated neuropathy." Yes, this is so true. I've had surgery for both, ("cord compression and nerve root compromise") to limited effect. I have troubles w/ my UE, as well as LE, so that is confusing, too. Most of my everyday pain is spinal, I can tell that.

I have lot's more questions which have been rolling around my brain for the last eight years. I so much appreciate both of you taking time to repond to my post and I will go with your suggestions right away.

Linda