I fear loosing my range of motion. Movement is so important. So is, how you move. For me, the more fluid the better. Beginner's Thai Chi and stretching in a pool work for me. I believe if you stop moving that's it....you're done for. Always keep moving. Rest when you need to. It alliws you to heal and keep going. No shame in resting. Just don't stay there...lol.

After many years of living with spinal degeneration and inflammation, it seems to me that those of us who suffer from spinal issues have much in common and those who don't suffer from these things seem to be in another world. It's s almost as if we live on a different planet.
I am not belittling those who suffer from arthritis in other joints of the body. I have relatives and friends who have different types of arthritis but not in the spine. They suffer a lot from their conditions. I pray for them. Yet at the same time, spinal patients like us seem to be almost "other worldly." This is why I feel a special bond and kinship with the rest of you.
I have been a member of the Arthritis Foundation for many years and I encourage all of you to contact the Foundation to see what they have to offer.

Mark,
Indiana

My fears about my spinal arthritis and arthrosis are these: I don't know how much more degeneration I can take. The degeneration in my C-Spine is extreme and my neck could break at any time. Not having much info from medical care providers makes it worse. I live on a day to day basis. It feels like...

Gosh Mimi, sounds like your plate is full! I’m so sorry about the spouse. I stayed with mine a year after we should have parted and it was awful. I was so afraid I couldn’t support my kids, pay for everything alone. But God provided. Always. We didn’t have a lot but had enough. And the best part? I had peace in my home. I was taking care of my dad who had AS but we didn’t know. He also had dementia but could function, insisted on living alone. Mother had just passed away. We know God tests us. But he will provide for you also. Praying for you girl.

Love this point of view! Awesome! I do try to keep myself moving and fight on. I am afraid I have yet to figure out how to get my mom moving though. I won't give up!