Final results in on the state of my health!

Well, good and bad as they say. Seriously, I'm not as badly off as many people, so this post is not going to be one long whinge. There have been a few people expressing concern for me, for which I thank you, and I thought you might like to know the results of my latest visits to the doctor. After the chiropractor advised me to get a CT scan of my spine and also possibly a bone density scan, I consulted my GP about getting them done. She said the bone density scan was not necessary, as other blood tests etc. that I have had, have not indicated problems with my bones. But she sent me off for the CT scan and a number of blood tests. The blood tests all came back with positive results: low cholesterol, kidneys and liver function good, blood sugar level good, and a few other things that I can't remember.

The CT scan however, confirmed what previous Xrays and chiropractors have told me - degenerative processes in the lumbar region of the spine, in other words, early stages of osteo-arthritis. After Dr R. explained all that, she then discussed my options for pain management. Painkilling tablets - a big NO - not yet! from me, but she said I should have them available for the occasions when I can't sleep at night, as it is important to get adequate rest. Agreed.
Next step is to make sure I am getting enough of the right kind of exercise to keep my body fit and well, without worsening the arthritis by inappropriate movement, such as prolonged periods of vacuuming and other housework. Dr R. recommended in addition to my daily half hour walk, I should take on weights training and Pilates. So I have booked into our local community health centre for an appointment with a physiotherapist, who will assess my physical health and see what I should be doing.

A few months ago, I was quite sure it was my feet causing all the problems, and I had new orthotics made up. I know now of course, my feet had nothing to do with the back pain, but since I've been wearing the orthotics full time, I'm not having any pain in my feet, which is a blessing in itself! They used to ache so, and along with my hips and back, I was a misery at times. The bursitis also seems to have cleared up, so I am assuming that since the orthotics have corrected my posture, the inflammation of the bursa has subsided. So! Fairly good news all around as far as I'm concerned. Most people end up with some form of arthritis as they age, so I'm not alone, and as long as I can manage the condition, life will go on as usual!