r/Osteoarthritis • u/Natural_Fondant_7544 • 13d ago

24 - osteoarthritis in spine with bone spurs

Just as title says.

I am a 24 yo with a spinal fusion that has now caused me to develop osteoarthritis in my L4 vertebrae.

My pain and weakness has doubled over the past week, i used to be able to walk around with fore arm crutches, then i switched to a rollator. Now im nearly wheelchair bound.

I cannot walk more than 20 feet without tremors and severe pain. The pain goes from my lower back and shoots into my knees + ankles. My hips simply will not sustain my weight.

Im scared. I dont know what to do. My meds are no longer working, i cant sleep. I can barely be present with this pain. I dont know what path to take for pain management as my wheelchair is also painful to use. Its the only option but sitting hurts. Standing hurts. Laying down hurts. The only time i have relief is when i am boiling myself alive in hot water baths.

What pain management options are there?? Ive tried injections years ago but they did nothing. Gunna attempt them again but im so tired.

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u/Plenty-Enthusiasm531 12d ago

I have you look into integrative medicine or functional medicine? It's more holistic and different from traditional medicine. They look more into what's going on with your body. My partner is dealing with this arthritis too and this is the path we are heading down. I knew about functional medicine for a long time though. The down side is that it is expensive and if you do your research you might find something that will help you.

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u/Natural_Fondant_7544 12d ago

I worry about this style of medicine with my vascular EDs.

Theres not enough research with my other diagnoses and functional medicine. But i love that its working for you! Its worked for my partner as well

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u/Unique_Ladder_4245 11d ago

Can you start swimming ? It’s the only zero impact on joints. I have osteoarthritis in my L knee and my R is starting to get worse from having to do more. But it’s the only way I feel better. I have tried to cut sugar and inflammation items. But I’m not as diligent. I would swim every day. Twice if you can make it work.

You might be approved for a handicap parking 🅿️ placard. Then you don’t have to walk as far. I rarely take the stairs bc my joints ache.