You sound SO much like me! I drug my feet for 1 1/2 yrs before getting the implant because it seemed like such a creepy thing to do, but like you, I had literally tried everything (including things like accupuncture, chiropracters, supplemental therapy, and I even had a lady look in my EYEBALLS (iridology) to supposedly find the problem ) Desperate indeed.

And yes, trying to hide the pain. I discovered in hindsight, however, that despite all attempts, the pain shows in our eyes.....at least to people who know how to see it. I shyed away from friends, friends shyed away from me...
But the best thing of all is that we are able to 'laugh' about it and make jokes. I truly believe that is the number one defensive mechanism there is.l

I'm so happy to hear you speak so highly of what this has done for you