Lumbar Degeneration - what helps you??

Hello Everyone,

I am not new Inspire but I am new to this group. For the past two years, I thought that back pain was just part of getting older (I am 52 yrs old and Lupus) but then the pain became more than I could bear.

I have read other posts here about all the problems that others have with their doctors. Getting correct medications and treatments seem to be the biggest concerns. I am blessed to have a team of doctors that are trying everything they can think of . . I have done physical therapy, I have a Tens Unit, I am just beginning acupunture. I take several pain meds (Tylenol #3, Cymbalta, Gabapentin and Nabumetone) it helps but does not take the pain away.

I was recently told that I will need the assistance of an electric wheelchair within a few years. I will be able to stand and take steps but no real walking . . well . . I can't really walk very far now!! I am so tired from the fibromyalgia and the pain meds. I am still working but I dont think I can continue this much longer.

I am looking for some encouraging posts to help me deal with the daily knowledge that immobility and pain is just going to be a BIG part of my life. People just dont understand that I look great but I am crumbling on the inside!!