Helena Nesbitt
First, I know how much Viox helps because I take it. I have the same thing from scolosis and really had a lot of pain until I started taking it. I couldn't even sleep well at night because my back, hip, etc. hurt no mater which way I laid. I make sure that I get aerobic exercise, plus lift light weights. I have found that when I don't exercise my muscles, I am much more prone to get tendonitis in my arms, etc. I also have a pacemaker (I was a runner for years and started getting almost black out spells. I had bradycardia (heart steopping for 5 seconds). Luckily my heart is fine otherwise. I guess the only advice I could give you is to continue to get plenty of rest, try to stay organized and give yourself as much time for yourself as you can (I know, easy said than done). I always make sure I get at least 8-9 hours of sleep and once in a while take Tylenol PM if I'm having trouble sleeping. Being a single mother must be tough and dealing with your mom. I guess at times you'll have to think of yourself first and be a little selfish, if it means putting the kids to bed a little earlier, etc. I money isn't too tight, do without some things and have someone come in to clean your house really good once in a while. It takes A LOT OF PRESSURE OFF OF YOU. Before I got my pacemaker, you can imagine I was REALLY TIRED because my heart wasn't working right. It's so important to have friends to talk to and try to look at the positive things in your life and keep a healthy outlook. As time goes on, your situation will change - meet a significant other, your kids will get older, etc. Good luck. If you ever need to talk, just e-mail me. P.S. One of the most important things I've learned to do is NEVER SIT IN A SOFT CHAIR. Always sit in a hard chair with straight back support. I used to sit in my son's room on the floor, etc and then I would be in so much pain. Also, doing floor exercises (see Internet for back exercises) helps immensely. Do them every day, even if for only a few moments, especially the cat stretch where you get on all fours and make your back concave, and then the other way. It really helps. Good luck!