[AZ-Di]

I have RSD/CRPS is left hand and wrist after broken wrist & surgery this last Dec.
I have been on 6-7 meds. for this but I'm down 3-4 that actually work a little.
Intense P.T and now I've had a total of 9 stellate ganglion blocks.
Now, I'm scheduled for the SCS trial.
I have been keeping up with stories from several of you members who have been dealing with this with a variety of results.
I have so much respect and admiration for all of you - I don't know how you do it!!
NOW IT'S MY TURN AND I'M VERY AFRAID!!
I'm afraid of it causing an RSD spread, having it create back problems where there are none (yet). I'm afraid every wrong movement may cause the leads to move. I'm usually the care giver in the family and I'm finding it hard to think of all the help I'll need. I HATE FEELING LIKE A BURDEN!
This is trivial but I hate not being able to bathe or shower for 5 DAYS and how do you deal with that??
I know ultimately it is my own decision but PLEASE anyone willing to chime in and give their "2 cents" worth is much appreciated.

[Mark56]

I understand the "fear" you acknowledge as you contemplate the approach of the Trial. I felt it both in advance of Trial and the permanent...... and in retrospect, I am not surprised I wrestled with it.

You see, foreign stuff emplaced in the body is truly NOT an easy thing with which to deal. Oh, sure, there are so many stories of plates and screws for this, pacemakers for that, and rods, and on and on..... but this is YOUR body you are thinking about. You wear this biological suit 24/7. You live in it. You wonder in advance..... can I deal with it?

I approached the gurney on the morning of each surgery as resolute as I remain to endeavor to triumph over pain. Pain had wrested control of my life from my feeble hands and my career with it. I wanted it back. I wanted restoration of life again.

Now, I live without any pain meds and all courtesy of my SCS. I was poked and prodded and tested and consulted regarding possible CRPS. Dread fear was creeping into my being. Fear with which I was wholesale tired. So..... I have been experimenting.... using less stim, still all day every day , but less.... and very lately walking somewhat haltingly without my cane [now that is a hard one, for I think it is both security blanket AND stabilizer].

Strides toward the good. Recapture of life. Having my career restored. All of this has been food for the spirit and desert for my soul.

I am glad I took the opportunity.

I pray for you all will be well, in all things, in all things,