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SIUSLAW NEWS |
SATURDAY, JULY 22 2017
TO YOUR
GOOD HEALTH
Too Old for Back
Surgery?
DEAR DR. ROACH: An MRI
shows that I have spinal stenosis. I
have not improved with chiropractic
care, electrical stimulation, medica-
tion (including hydrocodone, trama-
dol and a pain patch), physical ther-
apy or three spinal injections. After
the third injection did not help, I
told the surgeon I would need back
surgery, but he said I am too old. I
am 76. Am I too old? -- H.S.
ANSWER: Spinal stenosis is a
back condition in which the spinal
cord or nerve roots are compressed
due to bony abnormalities. The
pressure on the nerves can cause
pain, loss of refl exes and numbness.
Spinal stenosis is most common in
the lower back, but it can happen in
the neck and mid-back as well. It is
seen more often in people over 60
and is the most prevalent reason for
back surgery in people over 65.
The MRI usually shows the
compression on the spinal cord or
SALOME’S STARS
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A
turn in a relationship upsets the amo-
rous Arian, who is puzzled by Cupid’s
romantic antics. Be patient and con-
siderate. Th e confusion soon will sort
itself out.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It’s a
good time for travel-loving Taureans
to take off for fun-fi lled jaunts to new
places. And don’t be surprised if Cu-
pid tags along for what could be a very
eventful trip.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You
appear to be of two minds about con-
tinuing a relationship that seems to be
riding roughshod over your emotions.
A frank talk could help you decide
one way or the other.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Step-
ping back from a relationship prob-
nerve roots; however, the decision
for treatment is made based on the
symptoms, not necessarily how the
back looks by MRI. You have had
the recommended nonsurgical treat-
ments, including several medica-
tions, physical therapy and injec-
tions. Consideration of surgical
treatment is reasonable.
When considering any therapy,
the physician must consider the po-
tential benefi ts and risks. The benefi t
of surgery is that it is more likely to
relieve pain and improve function.
There is a small risk of a serious bad
outcome (death, worsening of pain
or weakness). In general, the older a
person is, the more risky the proce-
dure. However, there is no absolute
age cutoff of who can and can’t get
the surgery. The overall health of
the person is more important than
age. Younger people may be a bit
more likely to see better improve-
ments in walking after surgery.
Back surgery shouldn’t be un-
dertaken lightly at any age. Get a
surgical opinion -- and probably a
second opinion -- before making a
decision. Only the surgeon, with ac-
cess to your MRI results and hav-
ing completed a careful history and
exam, can make an informed rec-
ommendation about your personal
situation.
The booklet on back problems
gives an outline of the causes of and
treatments for the more-common
back maladies. Readers can order a
copy by writing: Dr. Roach -- No.
303W, 628 Virginia Drive, Or-
lando, FL 32803.. Enclose a check
or money order for $4.75 U.S./$6
Canada with the recipient’s printed
name and address. Please allow four
weeks for delivery.
DEAR DR. ROACH: Has the use
of white powder, monatomic gold
nutritional supplement been verifi ed
by the medical profession? Are the
claims of mental clarity, long life
span, disease cures, etc., accurate?
-- D.S.C.
ANSWER: I thought I knew
supplements pretty well, but hadn’t
heard of monatomic gold. Mona-
tomic gold is supposed to be an
“orbitally rearranged monoatomic
element.” In fact, these don’t exist
chemically, and anyone selling a
product like this and claiming health
benefi ts is deliberately scamming
you or is confused. Metallic gold is
inert and has no effect in the body,
as opposed to gold salts, which are
powerful and potentially dangerous
medications, now seldom used for
rheumatic diseases. Avoid “mona-
tomic gold” supplements.
lem provides a fresh perspective on
how to deal with it. Meanwhile, watch
your words. Something said in anger
now could backfi re later.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) A
changing situation makes the Big Cat
uneasy. But hold on until things settle
down around the 5th. Meanwhile,
continue your good work on that still-
unfi nished project.
VIRGO (August 23 to Septem-
ber 22) A decided improvement in a
workplace situation results in an un-
expected, but very welcome, added
benefi t for everyone. Personal rela-
tionships also improve.
LIBRA (September 23 to October
22) Money matters remain a bit un-
settled but soon will ease into the kind
of stability you appreciate. Mean-
while, an expanding social life off ers a
chance to make new friends.
SCORPIO (October 23 to Novem-
ber 21) Use an unexpected roadblock
in your monetary dealings to reassess
your fi nancial plans and make chang-
es, if necessary. It soon will be smooth
sailing again.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22
to December 21) Aspects of love are
strong for both single and paired Sag-
ittarians. Professional dealings also
thrive under the Sag’s clever handling
of diffi cult situations.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to
January 19) Set a realistic goal and
follow it through to completion. Re-
member: You’re more likely to impress
the right people with one well-done
job than with lots of jobs left undone.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to Febru-
ary 18) You like to plan ahead. Th at’s
fi ne. But be prepared to make some
changes because of an unsettled pe-
riod that infl uences your aspects
through the 5th.
PISCES (February 19 to March
20) A brief phase of instability aff ects
your usual work cycle. Use the time to
catch up on chores around the house
or offi ce. Th ings settle down soon af-
ter the 5th.
Frank’s 101 Barber Shop
396 Highway 101, Florence
541-902-9588
Siuslaw N ews
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AD IT DAY
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TO
Frank is back and proud to support Relay For Life.
Love you Carol!