Re: RC: Bad Backs/Chronic Pain (Riders with...)

[DESERTRYDR1@aol.com]

I had two herniated cervical disks in 96.  Fell on my head too many times I 
guess.  Had two surgeries to fix them in 97 (the 1st doc thought he knew 
better than I did, only fixed the "bad" one, which apparently didn't bother 
me much)  I have C5-6 fused and still have some osteoarthritis in neck, hips, 
knees, feet and hands.  The best thing for the pain is getting on my horse, 
and riding STRAIGHT.  BUT I also take glucosamine and MSM and a new 
prescription anti inflammatory called Celebrex.  It is a cox 2 inhibitor, and 
doesn't cause stomach problems like ibuprofen.  I also stretch every morning 
in the shower, and any other time I feel stiff or sore.  Last year I had a 
bad bout of inflammatory arthritis, which is how I got started on the 
Celebrex.  I keep my weight at a reasonably level, and love to shovel manure, 
buck hay and do other strength training.  I also found a video, Symmetry in 
Motion-Myofascial Release, that helped me get straighter.  I'm 48, and I 
think I get healthier every year.  I refuse to let pain stop me from doing 
the things I love, and that alone makes me feel like I am in control, not the 
pain.  Find things that work for you, and don't ever quit!  good luck, jeri