Jim and Suzy,

I think you hit it on the head, that stress is a huge contributing factor to pain. That is one of the main reasons why biofeedback therapy works. Other things that seem to help are meditation and other, similar practices like yoga.

I always notice that my pain levels increase when I have a lot of stress at work. A nice, relaxing vacation will often help to reduce the pain. This is not to say that “it’s all in my head” by any means. But certainly, added stress aggravates the pain and puts it at a much higher level. The 50% estimate is probably pretty fair.

I have been dealing with RSD for 24 years and now have added RA in the last couple of years for some extra fun. As time has gone on, I have learned that trying to keep calm, cool and as stress-free as possible is the best way to deal with all of this. …Plus a real good rant every once and a while!

Good luck to both of you,

Mike

Jim and Suzy,

Jim that is awesome that you are so intune with your wife and her needs. You both truly deserve peace in your life and when you are dealing with this illness and the SSDI worries that you have, you truly deserve a break. I do wish your wife would consider talking to a therapist, they have alot of clout on the toll that this takes on ones life. They would be able to see the amount of anxiety, pain, functionability, and duration that one can sustain. Two years ago the pain management forced me to talk to a therapist, as they wanted to try the scs implant. But I had to take this huge test and then see him on a regular weekly basis. He used biofeedback, and we talked, I told him everything about the effects that this has had on my life. At the time I was resentful because my thought was, yes I do have emotional distress from the pain, but the true issue was the pain. If I didn't have the pain, I would not be sitting there doing what everyone is telling me I have to do. He grew on me, and the biofeedback was where he got all of his pertinent information. His report is what saved me, I was shocked when I read the information. It was right on the nose, he had substantial evidence (from the biofeedback) and stated that he was shocked that I had been able to continue my lifestyle as long as I have. He stated that I was totally overwhelmed and was shutting down to survive. He also stated that according to my heartrate during the biofeedback, he had great concern of a stroke. Also, it took alot of pressure off of my family and husband. I know the place that Suzy goes, I truly feel her pain it is an awful place to be. I do pray for the both of you that there is some light at the end of the tunnel, this has been a long hard road for both of you. An environmental change sounds awesome and will definately enhance your quality of life. I think it is great that you are so in tune with the needs of Suzy and truly just enjoy watching her be able to enjoy something in life again. Believe this will happen and it will.

God Bless

Jeanie