I have recently been "diagnosed" as having spinal arthritis. I live everyday with chronic pain, although my doctor and I have been trying different medications to find one that works. I have been limited as to what I can take due to the fact that I was breastfeeding my daughter, but am now weaning her and from what I understand that will allow me to try a few more medications. So far, I've been on Vicodin, Vicoprofen, Neurontin, and Flexeril. Of course the Vicodin and Vicoprofen would temporarily relieve the pain, but not elimate the problem. Its so discouraging because I'm only 27 - I've got a lot to look forward in life, huh? Not sure if the Neurontin works yet - just started last week; and the Flexeril does nothing except make me sleepy!! My doctor suggested I start on Kadian, which is extended-release morphine, so we'll see how that goes if he ends up putting me on that. [:I]

[mpvt]

Exercise is extremely important for anyone with arthritis.You need to keep as much flexibility as you can.Stretch out in the mornings and a couple times during the day.The vicodens will only work for a short time and then you get tolerent to them and like you say they just cover up the problem.Keep limber......Dave

[Miles]

mpvt (Dave) nailed it. Stay active. Try to swim, walk, do yoga, whatever keeps you moving. Spondylosis is nasty and can cripple its victims.

Alas, if only the medical research community would spend more on finding a cure for arthritis rather than AIDS.