thanks vinayji for your encouraging words. now, about your queries: 1) It would not be appropriate for either I or you to diagnose your spinal problem with pure guesswork. You need a spine specialist for this, with some routine tests. And then, I suggest you undergo physio-therapy before launching into any hard-core exercise regimen, including asana practice if the diagnosis establishes what you fear now. Fortunately, most physio-therapeutic practices are entirely yoga-based. And upper back problems, unlike lower back, respond extremely well and very fast to therapy and that part of the spine repairs fast. Here, I would also suggest you check for life-style contributors -- posture, stress and workstyle (seated/or being in one position for longer) and finally, even not having enough repairing nutrients in our food, like Vitamin C (citrus fruits, dark green veggies, red/yellow food stuff). I will do a piece on upper back soon. It has reached epidemic proportions these days. 2) your second query, for reducing fat on thighs and hips. The most immediate yogic fat-busters are locust (in the joint pain yoga set I did), navkasana (in digestion set), squats and leg lifts (from office yoga set), Camel and double angle pose ( from breathe easy yoga). But please remember that if you are asking this second query for yourself, then heal your upper spine before venturing into these practices. Of the list I have given, the office yoga poses will be the safest...
