Just Out of My Grasp - Facet Injections and Disc Problems

nah, this isn't surgery, it's just my lower back tattoo of a snowflake, my first tat!

11/21/2013

Ahoy Fellow Fathomers, I’ve decided to use my blog not only to writing, music, and other facets of entertainment, but, also to share my journey. I found out on June 19, 2013 the reason for many of my ongoing health problems is because I have systemic lupus, also known as SLE.

Thank you for listening, each week I will have a new installment chronicling my journey. Please, please feel free to comment, write, share. I hope to use this forum as a help to all of us, no matter what pain you are experiencing. You may also send stories to me via finlessbook at gmail dot com. I will respect your privacy and maintain your anonymity, if you so desire.

Hugs for today …

Degenerative Disc Disease

I’ve had chronic back pain and problems for several years. In fact, former orthopedic doctors and even my physical therapists said my chronic shin splints and foot problems could be related to my back issues.

However, I also have osteopenia, which is the beginning stage of osteoporosis. I also have arthritis. Both osteoporosis and arthritis run heavily through my family line. I suppose it could be a combination of things, but, when all considered together with the lupus, it creates a more aggressive health situation.

My rheumatologist referred me to a pain doctor, and he recommended facet injections. I’ve not had back injections before, although I had two cortisone injections in my knee. (scary looking but worked like a charm). Unsure about someone sticking a needle in my spine, I sought a second opinion from a spine surgeon.

Good news is he recommended the injections and knew who this pain doctor was and highly recommended him for treatment. Bad news is the specialist is not that hopeful the injections will help. It could be too far gone and the next step is surgery.

Have any of you experienced degeneration in areas of your body possibly secondary to the base chronic illness? What type of treatment did you seek and did it work?

It’s tiring going from doctor to doctor, but, if it means I’ll feel good and put more miles on this body, then, I’m willing to do it.