Hello, I'm 36 years old and retired from the USAF. I got hurt in Southwest Asia and had to have back surgery. They saved my back but I had other complications with nerves in my legs and arthritis set in my knees as well. I was medically retired due to this and ever since I have gained weight in a hurry. I now weigh 100 lbs more than I did before my injuries. Due to my injuries I can't exercise at the rate I used to... Prior to May 2004 I ran 3 miles a day 4 days a week and occasionally 6 mile runs on top of those ( whenever my supervisors would decide to push us) now? Now I can only walk for 15-20 minutes and have excruciating pain in my back and left leg afterwards. I'm sure the weight just makes it worse which hurts the exercising efforts. Anyway, my insurance just announced ( or rather I discovered ) that they will cover Lap -Banding. I'm just starting out on this journey and found this site.

Anyone in North Florida have TriCare Insurance and know of any docs that accept it?

welcome to LBT. sorry about your back and knee, I think exercising will be made easier once you start losing weight. but even walking will help.

banding is one of the best thing I've done for myself.

good luck.

Go to the doctors and hospital or insurance sections on the forum and look for previous posts on Tricare. You can also try a "search" on the forum. Advanced Search is at the very right top of the forum page.

Above the lady with the apple and all the way to the right.

Good luck Bob...I am also just beginning my process..hang in there and be proactive. Sorry about your back. The weight loss will help. Your'e young enough for a great recovery..go get em!