DEAR DR. GOTT: I just returned from my doctor's office and feel very discouraged. An MRI of my lumbar spine shows disc-space narrowing and loss of normal hydration at all levels. There is first-degree spondylolisthesis at L5 — S1 as a result of facet joint degenerative changes with moderate spinal stenosis at that level.
The doctor says the degenerative process will continue and that there is nothing that can be done to stop it or treat it. I am a 69-year-old woman and am otherwise very healthy. I have, until recently, enjoyed an active life of golf and exercise. Is it true that there is nothing that can be done to help?
DEAR READER: To a large degree, your MRI has shown the consequences of an aging spine: dehydrated discs and bone changes with pressure on the spinal cord. These changes are progressive, universal and incurable. However, you can delay the inevitable by continuing your exercises, seeking physical therapy for pain and stiffness and considering chiropractic intervention. Also, attitude is important. Remember that you are blessed with otherwise good health.
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 long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR DR. GOTT: A very dear friend of mine is in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. He has been going to his doctor for months, taken pills, all with no positive results. He goes to a diner in the morning and has been using a baby cup to drink his coffee because he shakes so badly. There are times he cannot even get food to his mouth. He could not even sign his name. None of the medications helped him. A very nice man noticed my friend shaking and started talking to him. He said his dad had the same problem and that he should try taking two vitamins every day — grapeseed and B-50. You would not believe the difference. He no longer needs the baby cup for his coffee, he can eat on his own and he can sign his name again. I only hope it will help someone else.
DEAR READER: Your letter has interesting implications concerning the treatment of neuromuscular disorders, so I am publishing it as a public service.
I have had no experience with grapeseed and B-50, but if it helps someone, that's great. You folks out there, please let me know of your experiences with grapeseed and B-50.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Parkinson's Disease." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
The doctor says the degenerative process will continue and that there is nothing that can be done to stop it or treat it. I am a 69-year-old woman and am otherwise very healthy. I have, until recently, enjoyed an active life of golf and exercise. Is it true that there is nothing that can be done to help?
DEAR READER: To a large degree, your MRI has shown the consequences of an aging spine: dehydrated discs and bone changes with pressure on the spinal cord. These changes are progressive, universal and incurable. However, you can delay the inevitable by continuing your exercises, seeking physical therapy for pain and stiffness and considering chiropractic intervention. Also, attitude is important. Remember that you are blessed with otherwise good health.
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 long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
DEAR DR. GOTT: A very dear friend of mine is in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. He has been going to his doctor for months, taken pills, all with no positive results. He goes to a diner in the morning and has been using a baby cup to drink his coffee because he shakes so badly. There are times he cannot even get food to his mouth. He could not even sign his name. None of the medications helped him. A very nice man noticed my friend shaking and started talking to him. He said his dad had the same problem and that he should try taking two vitamins every day — grapeseed and B-50. You would not believe the difference. He no longer needs the baby cup for his coffee, he can eat on his own and he can sign his name again. I only hope it will help someone else.
DEAR READER: Your letter has interesting implications concerning the treatment of neuromuscular disorders, so I am publishing it as a public service.
I have had no experience with grapeseed and B-50, but if it helps someone, that's great. You folks out there, please let me know of your experiences with grapeseed and B-50.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Parkinson's Disease." Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.