Originally Posted by loretta

Tracy, I just am checking in to see how you are feeling? I know how bad the shoulder pain can be. Before each physical therapy treatment I took pain meds. They would strap me to table and work the shoulder. It is very painful during the treatment, but in the end-have full range of motion of shoulder/arm and no pain. It's been 15 years now and I still stretch, swim, and try to keep everything moving. Water therapy is really good with water that is 86 degree. There was a time I couldn't swim, but now can. The therapist gave me a tool, it's a round cylinder styrofoam about 5 ft long and 6 inches thick. I lay on it with arms stretched out and roll from side to side. It helps stretch those shoulder muscles. A therapist knowledgable in RSD is imperative. I also had one for my hand, but only got 50% usuage back. Was misdiagnosed and started late in therapy.
Have you thought about asking your Mom to keep your conversations private. Like telling her your relationship is important to you and the talking to 'Mom' helps you. Then telling your friends, other family the same thing-so your conversations don't get passed around and misunderstood. Have you thought of telling your attorney you are in need of counseling? RSD is something that most people need some professional help in dealing with. It's a loss like death is a loss, and there are steps of grieving our losses we need help in. Support group for RSD is also helpful. RSDSA is the national organization and if you go their on the web and put in your zip code, you'll get the closest support group. I was in therapy for 2 plus years when my parents died and 10 years into RSD and going full body, started therapy again and still going to same Dr. for the last 5-6 years. He has helped me so much.
Journaling is something that has helped me a great deal. Meditation, prayer, Visualization, Biofeedback, Music, Scented candles, epson salt baths, all these things helps us by the way of distraction and getting our feelings expressed. Do you like to read? Motivational books can be a lifesaver. Michael j Fox wrote a book, Always looking Up I'm going to buy. It's about him dealing with Parkinsons Disease. When I was in therapy the first time, I read about 50 books. Today there are tapes to listen to etc.
RSD is very painful physically and emotionally does so much to ourselves and our families. Communication skills are so important. It's importantant to stand up for ourselves, with respect.I personally needed professional help to do that. I really hope the best for you and WC should approve of professional help for you for this disorder.
Did you look at the video Sandel put on this website about medical information on RSD. It is really good, and the one just to the right of it. It has the sond my Sarah McGloughlin, Angels. It's really good. Let us know how you are doing, we really care- loretta with soft hugs