### instruction:
If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patient's description.

### input:
hello. I am 81 years of age and suffering from trigeminal neuralgia. I also have been told my lower back spine is crumbling, and walking is getting difficult, but is that my age. Are there any exercises I can do. nb if I lie flat on the hard floor I cannot get up again!

### output:

Hello, Certainly, the concept of osteoarthritis as a progressive and common problem in people over the age of 65 is well known.  I don't think I would use the exact terminology you've used to tell one of my patients with the condition about how they are or where I think things will go.  There are many alternatives to medications which are in general poorly effective.  I understand the problems you're having with trying to move about and get up from a supine position, but I think it is good, very good that you are trying and constant mobilization as you're doing, though painful, is one of the best therapies you can afford.  There are numerous exercises, and I am a huge advocate of aqua therapy for my patients with osteoarthritis who are willing to get in a pool with a therapist.  It is relaxing, quite therapeutic, and has been shown to actually improve joint and connective tissue function in order to slow down the progressive nature of the problem which is linked to age.  However, this doesn't mean you can do something to combat it.  Take a look at the Arthritis Foundations website. They have all sorts of options to look at in terms of exercise, diet, and therapies for the problems you have.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care.  Chat Doctor. 