Learning I am Mortal ...and more so that i thought. I got my back x-rayed because of the trapped nerve that had me in the ER a couple of weeks ago (still only partial sensation in one foot, got traction at the physio today), and they called and said there is marked degeneration of my spine and I have to have an MRI on Saturday. :(

Athritis was mentioned. I'm 38 FFS :(

Oh monnie, thats awful. I hope its not as bad as it sounds. Sending love rays your way!

That sux. On the bright side, however, they can do things for back issues now that were unthinkable even ten years ago. Either way, surgery is a bummer but you might come out better on the other side.

Monster...disc degeneration is inevitable and seeing it at 38 isn't unusual. You might want to look into exercises for your back...mostly stretching and a little weight training too. Posture is also very important, as well as diet...make sure to not dehydrate too often.

That sucks Monnie. Pico's right though, disc degeneration really isn't unusual for 38. Especially, actually in active sporty types (or so I'm led to believe, i may be wrong).

thanks y'all and yebbut apparently this is more than the "expected" ah well, I'm above average in everything else, so why not this too? :lol:

I'm a little scared about the MRI though, I'm claustrophobic and sedative-phobic.

Ah mo-mo...you're just too much awesome for your body to handle.

Damn Queen, I'm so sorry to hear about your extended family's troubles. I'll send some good energy their way, and yours as well. Here's a big hug... {{{{{{{Queenie}}}}}}}

monster, so sorry about your back. I have serious back problems, have had them for about the past 7 years or so, so I can totally relate. Sometimes the only thing that helps me (and it does help, a LOT), is taking pain pills, which I abhor doing, but living in pain is worse. I hope they find something is that is easliy treatable and get you fixed up fast.

Eeek Monster, I hope it's not too bad!

Don't worry, the sedatives will take care of that. ;)

Just called them. no sedatives for me, should be only about 30 mins, I can be a big girl and handle that :) (It's mostly crowds I don't like -small spaces at least don't move or get smaller. usually)

Did they tell you if the tube is open on the other end? That always helps me. I have to go once a year... it's actually kind of relaxing, in a weird way, once you get over the unfamiliarity. It's a little unnerving when they talk to you through the headphones to make sure you're comfortable, though!

no they didn't say. I'll be fine.

Good luck honey. *hugs*

They have open MRIs for people who are claustrophobic. If it's a problem maybe you could ask for one of those. personally, MRIs don't bother me, except that they are so damn LOUD.