I finally did it. After decades of nagging back and hip pain, I saw a neurosurgeon and a pain management specialist. And got an injection that literally hit me in the sacroiliac.
I did not even know I had such a body part, never mind knowing where it was or what it was for.
I can tell you that the steroid injection works. And that the cause of the pain is a wavy spine, better known as scoliosis. I was born with it, and my parents likely knew about it (I do remember a conversation between my mother and the pediatrician about the curve in my spine), but would not have been able to afford the fix for it back then.
At least I know for sure what it is, and that while it cannot be permanently repaired at this point, it can be treated. I’m not mad at my folks (they are both long deceased, so getting mad serves no purpose anyway) because overall, they did the best they could. And I am in far better shape than most of the patients I saw in my doctors’ offices — in wheelchairs, using canes, walkers, or other humans for assistance. I am still active and able to get up and move every day. The injection has helped my sleep (down to two pillows from five) and so far, all normal exercise seems to be fine.
I had so many races on hold: I had started an email folder for them, catching the reminders and storing them, waiting for treatment (would I need surgery? Would I be unsuitable for any type of treatment?), and wondering where I would be in September. Now I know and it’s time to fill in the calendar and fill up the new medal hanger. It holds over 100 medals. I need to get started. See you at the races.
Old Is Serious...Aging Is Hilarious 