Hi all! I have been reading this forum for a few months before committing to being a member. I have been impressed by the number of really caring people who take the time out of their day to support someone in need.
My goal by joining this forum is to stay positive, gain new information, and pass along help to others. My story in brief: I have had 4 spine surgeries for Degenerative Disc Disease in my cervical spine and lumbo-sacral spine. I have lived with chronic pain for 12+ years. In July 2011 I woke up from the 3rd spine surgery to mind boggling pain in my right lower leg/ankle. The lower leg & foot swelled, became cold and looked pale. The pain was excruciating and I could not walk more than a few steps. After a few weeks the burning set in. I now know I have RSD/CRPS. The good news is that I began physical therapy right away including intensive aquatic therapy. I am convinced that aquatic therapy is the ONLY reason I am still able to walk short distances today. I completed an entire year of therapy (three times per week), and continue now on my own with occasional "tune ups" from my physical therapist. It has been 2 1/2 years and I am just now beginning to accept that this is going to be a life-long challenge for me. I am open to learning new ways to manage this challenge!

Hi Lottie and welcome

Sorry you have to be here.... but it's always to have a new face around on the boards!

I'm about halfway into my third year too, so I know what you mean lol. It's definitely a journey! I was in a wheelchair and on crutches for over a year of mine, but physio, exercises and massage is what's got me back on my feet and getting on a bit better. The pain is there, but I cope better at the moment - long may it last!!!

Hope you have a good day today, and enjoy reading around on the threads. There's a great bunch of supportive folk on here with some really useful ideas. Got me through a few hard times...

Take care and keep posting

Bram.

Glad you joined us.We are all like family.The good thing is we all know what we are going through.I know I always felt alone.I joined here,and I feel these guys get me..So hold tight its going to be a up and down journey

Thanks so much Brambledog! I have to admit YOU are part of the reason I committed to joining this group! I find your posts to be positive and wise. I have never joined a forum before because I don't like to wallow and complain. But, you and others I have read do a great job of voicing the difficulties and then looking for solutions and I like that approach! Keep up the great work!
~ Lottie

Aww Lottie

!!!!

Bram.