Question: I have some scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, arthritis, and back pain since I was a teenager. I have always led a sedentary lifestyle working a desk job by day and teaching piano at night. I haven't been able to play the piano for years due to the back pain. I do take mobic and Tylenol. It really helps going to the chiropractor, is this a bad thing? I was just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which I believe has been the culprit for my fatigue for many years. I have opted for insulin, and now that my blood sugars are under control, I feel the pain in my feet. I never felt it when it was running high. Does that make any sense? I have had joint pain recently in two different fingers and in my big toe for quite some time. I assume it is osteoarthritis related to the arthritis in my back. Is there any point in seeing anyone about this until it becomes unbearable. I started taking glucosamine under the advice of my husband, and have gotten relief in the fingers, but my back just aches...I can sometimes see the lump from where it is out of place. Would a brace of some sort be beneficial? I complained and at one point they gave me cortisone shots but for the one that is always out in the lower part that does not hurt nearly as bad...it is between my shoulder blades, and beginning to work it's way up a little more. It is even tender to the touch. My recliner and in bed seem to be the best in between chiropractor visits. I do try to wait as long as I can before I go...or should I work at going about every two weeks which seems to keep it under control. I am a 46 year old female, 5'4", 140 lbs. with the aches and pains of a 90 year old. Any advice would be appreciated. They have talked core strengthening exercises...I work over 60 hours a week and just can't seem to work it in right now.

Should I or should I not be going to the chiropractor...it does help. I used to have Vitamin D deficiency, but have been able to get it in normal range. If I go to the chiropractor every two weeks I don't have much pain at all between the shoulder blades. I believe this is degenerative. My doctor is quick to refer me to someone else, should I be seeing an orthopedic doctor or pain management specialist?