Dear Dr. Gott: I am writing to tell you how your column has changed the quality of my life for the better. I have always enjoyed reading the questions and have admired your good, common-sense answers. I cut a lot of them out to keep as a reference ¿ in particular, the castor oil applied topically for arthritis.

My lower back has a degenerated disc and was causing me a lot of pain. My primary care physician referred me for physical therapy, which was too expensive at $30 per co-pay, three times per week. I also consulted my sister's chiropractor, X-rays in hand, and was again told it would take six to eight weeks of treatment, three times a week, and a $30 co-pay per visit. Plus, I was leery of the manipulation involved. Then I was referred to an orthopaedic doctor who gave me a cortisone-type injection in my lower back, with only fair results. After a year, with four injections, I tried the castor oil, morning and night, faithfully. That was a year and a half ago. I am comfortable in my daily activities and am able to sleep without much pain. I do try to sit straight and not twist my lower back. I often use a pillow for support at night. Most of the time I am pain-free for walking, gardening and housework. I am 72 years old and am taking medicine for osteoporosis. I still use the castor oil twice a day.

So you see, you have made my life so much better in the "little things" that make up our daily lives. thank you! Please keep up the good work.

Reply: I am surprised that your pain responded to castor oil and not to the other types of therapy, so I'm publishing your letter as a service to other readers. Topical castor oil is certainly the least expensive option. Keep it up.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Managing Chronic Pain''. Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092. Be sure to mention the title.

Dear Dr. Gott: My doctor has recommended that I use Forteo to treat a bone-density problem. I am a healthy 84-year-old and feel that self-injecting myself to the tune of $600-plus a month is a bit drastic. What is your opinion of this treatment?

Reply: I believe that, at your age, Forteo is not indicated unless a bone density exam has confirmed that you have severe osteoporosis or that you have compression fractures in your spine. Ask your doctor to suggest other options, such as Actonel or Boniva. To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report "Understanding Osteoporosis''." Other readers who would like a copy should note the Ohio address. Be sure to mention the title.

Dr. Gott is a retired physician and the author of the new book "Dr. Gott's No Flour, No Sugar Diet''. Contact him c/o United Media, 200 Madison Avenue, fourth floor, New York, New York 10016.