GenieHendrickson,
At this point, I am not ready to undergo the knife again. I have had 3 total hip replacements in 2004-2005. January 13, 2021 I had C4-C7 ACDF Fusion surgery on my neck. I have been walking around with a broken L5-S1 for years, and finally diagnosed with AS. Because my entire spine can be giving me 3 kinds of pain and discomfort at any given second. I declined having the L5 surgery, and as long as I am not having to be on someone's clock, I can take my pain meds as I need them. I don't go out much because I have to take pain meds to function relatively well.
The gabapentin, Lyrica, and cymbalta all gave me major brain fog, and the Lyrica actually gave me hand tremors. I will never willingly go back on them. At least I am cognizant enough to realize that there are gives and takes with all meds. I can live a hermits life as long as I am allowed my crafts, gardens, nature, and books.
I worked for years needing to take the hydrocodone in order to make it through an 8 hour day...now, I am able to take them as I need them...not every morning to get to work and keep moving for an 8 hour shift.
Bottom line, when the pain begins to be constant and my shoulders don't move without pain or keep dislocating, at that point I may have the shoulder replacement done. Until that time, I will fight on😁

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member
Yes a heating pad seems to be the most effective. Walmart actually sells one that is the entire length of your back. It is the XXL one, it has 6 heat settings. Though it gets really hot so I normally leave it a setting 4. It is one that actually puts out enough heat that it will go through a heavy sweatshirt. They normally have them in the pharmacy area near the bandaids. The XXL one is $30 but well worth it!! Hope this helps you in anyway.

Mentioned Users

A MySpond...

I use the hot pad . Then I put on
Nonsense tv. It works wonders.

@A MySpondylitisTeam Member, my Medicare does not cover acupuncture, 60 a pop for 6 weeks to see if it works. Going back soon. Heat and rest are our friends. 😉
Have a blessed day.
@A MySpondylitisTeam Member

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A MySpond...

A MySpond...

Accupuncture, cupping, physical therapy, anti inflammatory diet and hopefully the right biologic. I’m about to start Enbrel. I really hope this helps🙏🏻. I also have an adjustable mattress and I don’t think I can ever sleep on a flat bed again. I think hot shower or warm bath is a good idea. Last time I swam and went into a jacuzzi it was so therapeutic. I hope this helps.