Quote Originally Posted by daisylubob View Post
UPDATE:
Xrays show disc degeneration and bony changes (arthritic type) in the lumbar spine. MRI is next, and I have an appt w/ a neuro DR who is a cyclist on 5/17. I am not liking the sound of this....scared.
Don't be...EVERYONE has some amount of disc degeneration and, yes, even arthritis. Some people are asymptomatic their whole lives. Others, not so lucky. The xrays probably show narrowing between the vertebrae, which usually indicates degeneration. Only the MRI will tell the extent/level of degeneration. Deep breath, and wait for the MRI results. Talking to a neurosurgeon is not a bad thing, but you also might want to consult a physiatrist (non-surgical).

After years of pain and trying to fix it on my own, I ended up having lumbar fusion. Life is way better now, and I'm still early in recovery. I'm not saying this is the answer for you...I tried just about everything out there you can try and would be happy to go on and on about it all via PM if you'd like.

Above all, you need to have patience. Take your time. Open your mind to solutions that might not be something you ever thought of.

I hope you find relief soon.