Hi to all of you. I am hoping I have found the right place.....for both information and emotional support.

For the past 5 years, I have been living with chronic pain that exists throughout my entire body. After many trips to the hospital and being misdiagnosed numerous times, the doctors finally discovered that I have a split in my spinal cord and a tethered cord that both are located in my lower back. They say this is what caused all my lower back and leg pain. It gets so bad, I have problems getting out of a chair and even walking. When it gets REALLY bad, all I do is cry because of the pain which is not like me. I was brought up where you don't show emotion very often...it can be a sign of weakness. That mindset served me well when I was in the military, but I certainly found my breaking point with all of this. The pain meds that I was given didn't seem to really do anything either. It took a slight edge off but that was about it. The doctors also say I have cervical stenosis in my neck which causes all my migraines and arm pain. Unfortunately, I can only choose to have the stimulator work on either my arms or legs. I have decided on my legs since I feel that I need them more and that is where I have had the pain the longest.

The bad news is the Doctors say there isn't any surgery that will "fix" my problems since I am too young. (I am 37.) However, I am scheduled for the spinal cord stimulator surgery the beginning part of February which I have mixed feelings about. I feel that this is a "band-aid" but at this point I will do anything to alleviate the pain. I was hoping someone who has had the surgery could respond to my post.

The research I have found has resulted in positive outcomes but the doctors are going to also cut bone out to make room to insert a paddle. They are doing this to secure the leads in place so I can lead a more active lifestyle. I use to be every active before the pain started and would like to try and get some of my life back. My main goal is to be able to play more with my 6 year old son! And not be so cranky!! I use to be happy-go-lucky but all this pain has put a bit of a damper on my attitude! I find it a lot harder to stay happy and positive. I didn't have to work as hard at it before!!

I really appreciate any feedback anyone might have!!

Thanks!