I'm 28 years old and I was born with a fractured spine. After years of chronic pain I had my first spinal fusion at 17. It seemed to help a little at first and then the pain started getting more frequent again. Just this past November I had a second fusion because the first one had degraded and I ended up with constant sciatica for almost a year.

I thought surgery would be a good way to avoid being on painkillers and so I could have a more "normal" life since my lack of being able to have a social life was putting a lot of strain on my marriage. I was wrong. The surgery caused nerve damage and now I am far worse. I can't stand for very log, I can;t sit for very long, and I have burning and stabbing pains in my leg and foot. I may lose my job and my husband just told me today he is leaving me.

I don't know if I should try anymore or just accept that I will be in pain and alone for the rest of my life.

I do not suffer from this disease, but have a relative who does. I don't have an answer to your problem, but just wanted to encourage you. Don't lose faith! We always have hope

Have you read about SCS or pain pumps?

Those might be an option to look into.
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum118.html
http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/forum72.html

Thanks for the links but at this point I refuse to have anything else implanted into me and I have read that most people develop a tolerance to SCS over time anyway. For now I am going to try supplements and exercise and hope I get to the point where I can at least do some of the activities I used to enjoy.

Thanks! After reading some success stories on here I am feeling a little better. I know I will never be pain free but hopefully can get somewhat better.