DEAR DR. GOTT:
I am a 63-year-old female. I have been about 20 pounds overweight for the last 10 years. I had two back surgeries, one at L4 and the other at L5, nearly 30 years ago.
My current problem is inflammation of the bursa sacs in both of my hips. I have seen two physicians, three orthopedists and a physical therapist. I have had two cortisone shots, three different prescription anti-inflammatories and work out in a heated pool. So far nothing seems to be helping.
Ten years ago I took an office job and sit for eight hours a day. About that same time I started Lipitor. Two years ago I stopped for six weeks (with doctor approval) but the hip pain did not go away. My doctors keep telling me that it is hard to heal this type of problem but I am tired of hurting. I cannot lie on either side and am unable to walk even a single city block. Please help!
DEAR READER:
Bursa is a fluid filled, sac-like cavity that reduces friction between two tissues. There are several bursa within the body but those most commonly affected by inflammation are those within the joints. The common affliction of “water on the knee” is caused when excess fluid accumulates in the bursa at the knee. This is also common in the elbows and hips.
I am unsure how long you have been dealing with this problem. You repeatedly mention 10 years so I am assuming this has been going on for quite a while. If you have had this pain for that long a period, it is now time to explore other options such as acupressure, acupuncture, different non-narcotic or narcotic prescriptions, and others. Have your physicians ruled out excess fluid as a cause? If not, perhaps this is the root of the problem and a simple draining procedure would solve the problem. As a last resort, (which you seem to be nearing), surgical removal of the bursa in your hips is an option.
Speak to your orthopedist about what the next steps are.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Managing Chronic Pain”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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