Well, it’s time to update everyone about my back problems…unfortunately.
Many of you know that for the past several years (about 3) I have struggled with neck and shoulder pain on a predictably unpredictable basis. Every couple of weeks I tend to have a really bad week, having these “headaches” every day, growing worse throughout the day until, in the evening, I often have to stay home from the commitments I’ve made. Then, some weeks I’m fine and I just feel a bit tight but nothing severe. I haven’t been able to detect any pattern of diet, sleep, exercise, or behavior that would indicate what is causing the pain and tension in my neck and shoulders. Well, now we know what is going on. Here’s the story:
I was working out one day at my gym (World Gym) and there was a special event in which local vendors came with free samples. There was also a chiropractor there, giving free spinal evaluations, so I was one of the first in line. I was given a test and the impressive digital screen immediately showed that I have some healthy areas in my spine, but some severely unhealthy areas as well. And it was no surprise that the unhealthy areas of my spine are where I feel the most pain and tension on a regular basis.
I was given a coupon for a free consultation, free x-rays, and a free visit to review my results. I took advantage of all three, and my follow up visit was so discouraging. I was shown my x-rays and shown a poster of what a healthy spine looks like. There was quite a disparity between the two. The spinal cord in my neck is virtually without curvature…it is straight, which is called Phase One of Spinal Degeneration. Yikes. I didn’t like the sound of that. As a result, my weight bearing muscles are experiencing tension and knotting from carrying either too much, or not enough weight. The distribution of weight is unbalanced when the spine doesn’t curve properly. It’s amazing how God designed our bodies to function so specifically. I also found out that I have a fracture in my lower back, as well as exaggerated curvature, which also causes much pain, especially as people age. I didn’t like the sound of that, either.
These problems can come from a variety of issues, from car accidents (I have been in two), to athletic wear and tear (I have had much), to years of poor posture (I’m really working on having great posture now). My understanding is that the best a doctor can do is give an educated guess as to why a person has these problems. Any and all of the above could have caused my problems. Sigh. And I’ll only be turning 26 next month.
So, I have begun a treatment plan that will strive to bring curvature back to the spinal cord in my neck and to reduce it in my lower back. Through a series of adjustments, electrical stem, and specialized exercises, I hope to be in much better condition in a few months. In the meantime, our checking account is going to take a big hit, so please pray for us to be ultra wise with our financial decisions. And I could use some prayer for my spinal cord as well!!!
I did some research about chiropractic, and should you feel a similar urge, I found the American Chiropractic Association site helpful.
I have to give a “shout out” to my wonderful husband, who is patiently supporting and encouraging me, and who is probably going crazy because he wants to be able to “fix” me and not feel so helpless. You’re awesome, babe! I love you more than anything in the world.
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