Originally Posted by mellowguy

Hey to everyone,
It can be very frustrating to do what everyone tells you to do and take with little or no results. After sustaining a severe injury to my right foot at my employment (construction) in 1995, I went through several surgeries to have bones fused and screws with pin implants. They were removed 1 1/2 years later only to be diagnosed with RSD/CRPS. In order to relieve the severe pain and swelling I tried other procedures from specialists who deal with this ambiguous disorder. I tried Trigger point injections, accupuncture, hydro therapy,sympathetic nerve blocks, a list of opiate pain meds., physical therapy, wearing a tens unit, ice and heat therapy. All of these had either very little or no relief. I'm beginning to run out of options. I did read that a new clinic which is a first in its kind has opened in Tampa Fl, The CRPS pain treatment and Research institue. It provides medical treatment for soley patience with RSD/CRPS. I'm considering trying this option. Most people who work in the medical community have a pain measuring chart that goes from 0 to 10. On my good days, I usually rate around 7 to 8. On bad days, the range is average 8 1/2 to 9 1/2. I'm not confinced that a 10 can be applied here. Like splitting hairs but, it counts.
I have traveled to other states and talked to other physicians who advicate
marijuana for medical purpose. It has been recommended to me as a last ditch effort. Currently there are 14 states in the U.S. that allow its use for a variety of medical disorders. Chronic pain is one of these disorders. A brief Google on medical marijuana will give people who are interested in the information only can read loads of info. New York State will soon become the 15th state to allow its use for the same reasons. It is currenty 1 vote away in the state senate from becoming a passed bill and the governor has stated he will sign it when it hits his desk. I'm not advocating or suggesting that this is the only alternative way to relive chronic pain. But, it is worth researching for its vital information. Not to mention the millions in tax revenue that is collected by the states that allow it. It is closely monitored by those states and not a free for all as some might suggest.
To close, I offer this advice, don't give up and keep thinking that tomorrow will bring new hope. It also helps to have hobbies to focus your healing and to avoid concentrating on the pain. Good luck to all. I wish you the best.