Hello everyone. Actually was on this site years ago when I first got RSD/CRPS II. I left because it literally broke my heart every time someone new joined because they were just dx with RSD-knowing what they would be going thru at the beginning. I know that was selfish of me but I was still trying to get a grip on what was ahead for me also. So after that confession I hope I will be welcomed here. My story: January of 2001, had a snowboarding accident and fractured L1, L2, L4, L5. L-1 was a bad compression fracture so I spent 8 months in full back brace in bed. In Oct. 2003, had cervical spinal fusion of C5-C6 for herniated disc with donor bone graft and hardware. About six months after surgery, C4 and C7 started slipping and became unstable. Doctors did not want to do multi-level fusion so we tried some comfort measures, a series of epidurals and facet injections with little relief. In September of 2005, had bilateral C4-C5 Radio-frequency Ablation and within eight hours of procedure, ended up in hospital with RSD in neck, shoulder, upper left arm, and back. After a few months it spread to my mouth, including lips, tongue and teeth. Since that my orthopedic surgeon strictly told me no injections no blocks not even a flu shot. My CRPS II has spread everywhere except hands and feet. Neck, back, hips, and mouth the worst of them all. I spend 22 hours a day in bed. My CRPS is HOT along with all the rest of the symptoms. I have been disabled since Sept of 2005. raising 5 children on my own. Hanging in there as best I can. My kids are in their 20's now and are a godsend. They help so much and since I can no longer drive they take me to all Dr. appts. I've been reading lots of posts and it amazes me how much support and how caring you all are. Glad I came back-hope you all will let me stay. CC

HI,
I'm glad you posted. I know how you feel about not wanting to see/read people with RSD and that it makes you sad......I can't read internet articles about RSD anymore because I'll end up in tears and get really upset but this is one place where I can read about peoples cases and not get upset. Maybe because I'm in the same boat.

Nobody should have to go through what you did. There are so many ways of getting RSD I wish someone would figure it out and why we get it.

Hang in there....I hope you feel better soon!
Heather

Hi Coconut nice to have you back!

Wow that's one tough road you've been on already with it. It always amazes me how much some folk here have had to deal with....CRPS is like the gift that keeps on giving I'm so glad you have your children to help you out with support both practical and emotional - sounds like you did a fantastic job as a single mum facing an almost impossible situation.

Good to have you here, even though the reason for it is never postive. We can always learn from folk like you who have coped with the worst things this disease can throw at us, and still don't give in. Good on you.

I too understand the reluctance to see people who have been diagnosed, and knowing what could be in store for them. I always feel a little sick in my stomach when I see that new post of someone just diagnosed... and I'm only into my third year. But this forum is amazing, with such positive and determined people, and such a lot of advice and support. It's helped me more than my docs!

Anyway, hope you are doing ok today, and keep posting now you're back!!!

Bram.

Welcome! So sorry you have had such a rough course.I too have had multiple spine surgeries and RFA multiple times and the injections. You did the right thing to re connect here! Lots of great folks! May today be a good day :-)

Thank you all so much for your replies and heart felt compassion. It feels good to be back-like coming home. I love reading all the posts from people who understand what we are going thru. Thanks again, CC