Hi everyone, I happen to run across this board which someone from Obesityhelp.com posted about it. So, glad I happen to read that message!

I am going to Mexico to see Dr. Aceves on Sept 23rd. I feel very good about my decesion and not to scared, but alot of questions are poping in my head now.

Although I did alot of research I think my main concern is because I have Osteoporeis and Osteoarthritis ( I know I spelled those wrong haha) and it gets kind of bad at times. Was wondering if anyone else had this and has it been any type of problem for you?

Are you taking any kind of med's for it while being banded?

Thank you and so glad to be here

Debi, best of luck on your banding. I think you will find getting excess weight off your joints will definitely help. It's no fun to hurt. Best of luck to you!

I had before and still have arthritis. I take Celebrex. My Dr. advised that I take Prevacid before taking the Celebrex to help protect the stomach. I also switched to liquid Glucsomine (since banding). My arthritis has gotten better since losing some weight. I try to ride my bike regularly. It seems easier on my knees than walking. Running/jogging hurts too bad (for me). My knees seem to feel better when I ride regularly. But even losing weight isn't helping w/my finger joints.

Can't help with the arthritis questions, but I'm glad to see you here. Welcome!!!

I have a friend who swears that the alfalfa supplements she takes have reduced her arthritic problems. I don't know exactly what she takes, but she tells anyone who mentions arthritis to try it for a month, and she gets it at some health food store.

I don't know much about it on a medicinal level, but it may be something worth having a look into. My friend tells me it makes her "joints warmer, and alleviates pain". I'd ask my doc before starting it though, to make sure its not something that would interfere with other meds.

Thank you all for your replies. Pam, someone else told me once about that stuff.. I just never thought anything more about it. I go to see my PCP soon, think I will ask him about that

See you all soon on the losing side ( 9/23/04)

you're very welcome,

I go down to TIJ for a band on 09/21, so we'll have to compare notes lol

Best of Luck to you!

Hi Debi,

Nice to meet you and I wish both you and Pam the best of luck on your surgery's later this month. Keep us posted about how everything goes, and let us know if you have more questions or concerns. Teresa