I am a 67 year old white male, married and have 2 children, a wife and 2 dogs, plus we have a 98 year old live in grandparent to take care of.; needless to say my hands are full. 2.5 years ago while on a business trip to Atlanta (GA) I got dehydrated and while I recovered from that ailment, I have had pains on my legs and feet, which some Doctors stated were from Diabetic Neuropathy. This diagnosis proved wrong with blood tests and I was sent to Orthopedic Doctor in my area, who checked me out using X-Rays and MRI studies and determined that the 5 lower vertebrae were compressed somewhat, but saw no problems; well he moved away (out of state) to get morne money and I was left with nobody and still had the pain. I went to a Rheumatologist who checked whatever they check and basically said take 2 aspirin and call me in the morning. Then I went to Oncologist/ Hematologist and he tested me with 1 test costing over $7,000; he told me I was POK, except I had a blood issue called Leiden Factor 5 which was deficient. This means my blood clotted quickly, so I should be careful about clots. Then I went to a Neurologist and after finding nothing wrong, he recommended blood transfusions (this is true); me feet, legs and lower back still hurt., but the insurance would not pay the $15,000 a month cost. I even went to one of those witch doctor pain clinics who advertise in the Sunday paper over in Columbia and this guy said he could help by giving me injections of some concoction he mixed up and I said NO. A few weeks later, I read in the State newspaper, he had injected 3 people and they were in the hospital; later 1 died and he went to jail. Boy am I glad that I kept walking. Still in pain, from my feet, legs, hips and lower waist, I decided to start over. Was sent to a local Podiatrist, who after examination, sent me to a different Orthopedic Doctor in Conway. Dr. William MIlls is located in the Conway Medical Center and I was impressed from day 1, with their electronic forms program, to their level of friendliness. After a series of X-Rays and MRI's, he determined the lower 5 vertebrae were compressing and scheduled me for an injection of antibiotics and steroids. This was done to my lower back in 5 places and by the next day the pain was 85-90% gone. I still have the feeling in my feet of walking on cotton, but the pain related to sitting, standing, walking and general movement. After 2 1/2/ years of pain, wasting time driving around and getting nothing but more bills, this change of Doctors is the best thing that I have experienced. I highly recommend to anyone in pain.
Hubbard C.
Treating Doctor
William L. Mills, M.D.