it never occurred to me that I should have an MRI before proceeding to surgery with information dated 7/12. I can't keep up with the pain in my body, nor where it comes from. At some point it feels like it shouldn't matter.. but it does. I had thought that CRPS was primarily upper body pain, and DDD was the lower. After my MRI I realized that I don't have such a good clue. Somehow these pains are completely intertwined... I am grateful for advice from those of you who have, unfortunately, both of these types of pain and how you manage them.

The additional pain from my spine makes sense after seeing some results of the MRI I had last night. My lumbar is worse than cervical;both worse than I had hoped for. I was wanting so much to avoid having a stimulator anywhere near my neck or nerves leading into my hands, but now a new picture is on the wall. I have hardware from C4- 7. Above that I have spondylosis ankylosis,moderate central canal stenosis @ C2-3, disc desiccation, osteophytes, a herniation, moderate and severe facet joint arthrosis .. the worst area is just above my fusion. I remember hearing that the biggest risk asked after a fusion is to the level above...Oh my, The arthritis herniations and impingement's are significantly worse than they were two years ago when I had my last MRI in the lumbar region. The radiologist had to leave at five so I only got the results of the cervical --she said two days for the rest.Maybe at this moment I should consider surrendering to what is and what will be, and have it be less about what I want… the trap of all traps.
. So many of the symptoms are overlapping with the DDD that it's hard to keep straight. My arms feel like they're on fire whether or not they're hot or cold. One arm, shoulder and back have muscle wasting and bone loss. The tingling burning jabbing and stabbing pain just don't quit. Sometimes my hands are numb, or parts of them. An injury to my finger last summer means that I can't tolerate air blowing over it… Sleeping and lying on my sides or on my back without proper pillows support can lead to excruciating pain numbness and tingling, in my arms . I have radiating pain in both of my arms,aggravated by certain movements, but it is not constant. Also, muscle pain and fatigue confuse everything.
Tomorrow is a new day and I go back for my pain psychology appointment, and yet again, to the G.I. doc..and the 4 hour ride. (Still feeling lousy but the fever has abated and slowly the fog is clearing from my brain.) I've been such a muddle, please forgive any misspeak on my part. I'm wondering now if I should see a neurosurgeon again before following through with the pain management for the stimulator. I saw a neurosurgeon and got advice to avoid repairing my spine because of other probable CRPS involvement, but that was 3 years ago.Now what..will happen, and ... Any and all advice is welcome. I did have the presence of mind to contact the new PMR in town who can help me with rehab and who understands well CRPS, DDD and fibromyalgia. Very happy with that!

I feel guilty and blessed too, for not to having to suffer as many of you do with our medical system for appropriate treatment including pain medications. My heart so goes out to all of you who struggle with ignorance that causes greater suffering. I am immensely grateful for doctors with such kind hearts who treat us well . That said, I have fired so many doctors in my lifetime. There is a limit to what I can take when it comes to lack of caring!

Wishing you all the VERY BEST OF CARE!

Hana