I want to do something in the health care profession when I am older, especially now that I have RSD. I want to be either a Physiotherapist or Psychologist and am going to College from September for 2 years to do a Young Apprentice Course in Health and Social Care - I really hope I can survive it as I know it's going to be a lot of hard work!!!!

Please do lots of research into the blocks and weigh up the pro's and con's! No one can force you into doing anything you dont want to do - it is your body and has to be you that makes the final decision!!!

I'm glad the Gabapentin has helped you so much but sorry you have to deal with the horrible side effects!! Has your doctor ever discussed Lyrica (Pregablin) with you? My Doctor put me on it last year and it is supposed to be very similar to Gabapentin but has fewer side effects (it's the new version). Neither the Gabapentin nor Lyrica helped me but it might be something to look into if you haven't already!



Thanks - I hope you had a good day too - I was thinking of you today.

I think I will give Pregabalin a try - I need to get a crossover regime though - I'm lucky got a good pain doctor who liases with my GP.

About the blocks - I'm glad for the info - its good to have a balanced view of things - I talked to a couple of the anaesthetists today and the pain nurse specialists and they seem to think if it works it works well - but if it doesn't it could also cause problems . And it seems to me once you start down that road - its a very long journey - so definitely having second thoughts - I'm not on the theatre list till August so I have a few weeks yet to make my mind up.

I booked for hypnotherapy on Monday - its worth a try. Its with a nurse who is trained in complementary therapies - so I'll let you know if its any good.

Anyway - just wanted to let you know I've been teaching in nursing on and off for a few years and I've just finished my degree in health care - and starting my cert ed in teaching - hopefully some time in the future I will go into teaching health care studies. When the time comes - if you need any help with you studies, course work or any support - thats something I could help you with - if you like. And I'm sure you will be fine doing it- basically half the battle is having the motivation to learn. So as your enthusiatsic, you want to learn the subject, you've got the right attituide and determination - you will do well. I know this is an awful condition - but you are obviously very bright, strong and positive individual - and that will see you through not only any studying you want to do but also in life in general.

Nice to hear from you again - Take care (and I found another character thingy - brillant - - love these things!)