[Coconut Coyote]

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