Around the time I was 50 I noticed my back hurt. Then I noticed my mother's hands did not function right. I had one lumbar disc problem for which I got a steroid shot in 1988. I was fine till about 1999. Then I started having problems with bone spurs all over. I was diagnosed with OA, spinal stenosis, and scoliosis. I have had 2 finger joints replaced at Mayo. My right large toe straightened and hammer toes. I recently had a decompression laminectomy. The pain has gotten worse. If I con't take the celebrex it is pretty bad. My left side is higher than my right which means I walk lopsided. My knees will need to be replaced.
The spine surgeon said I had a young body with an 85 year old spine. I have had lots of PT, exercise, and the pain meds give me awful side effects. Soon they will put in a spinal stim unit and see if that helps. I am about at the end of my rope. I am fine unless I try to walk then my legs get exhausted and my lumbar muscles spasm. Only occassionly do I get the leg pain. I am so frustrated because at 64 I have to work a few more years and then retire. I want to walk in retirement. I am fine sitting at my desk but I want to go to museums and shop.