CRPS -The Daemon on My Back

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For most of my life I was in horrendous pain starting at a very young age, around ten years old. Doctors were at a loss, they diagnosed me with several diseases over a period of roughly 30 years, finally settling on Chondromalacia/Congenital Arthritis. I had surgery after surgery to no avail. Finally in 2015 at the age of 42, after two patello-femoral (kneecap) replacements in each knee and 7 other surgeries on my legs, I was diagnosed with CRPS. 

For most of the last decade I've fought with doctors.  I have fired at least five because they accused me of being a drug seeker. Anyone with CRPS knows that opiates aren't the answer but I also have been in several car accidents which resulted in spinal deterioration and arthritis, so I find opiates to be helpful in moderation.  However, they aren't what I need from a physician.  I needed compassion.  I needed understanding and a desire to get to the bottom of whatever was going on inside my body. I would ask my doctors over and over, "Could this be a nervous disorder and NOT just arthritis? "  Of course, I was dismissed. Finally I was diagnosed with CRPS and while it's a difficult diagnosis, I was first relieved to know I wasn't crazy. This thing has a name, symptoms and treatment.  

While mine was caught too late for many treatments to be effective,  I still hold onto hope. I tried as many non opiod based treatments as possible,  even ablating the offending nerves.  Sadly, it was ineffective because my pain has turned sympathetic.  But, I will not relent, I will not give up.  I still work full time and  I'm a mother & wife. I'm still contributing to the music & art world but it takes more time. 

If you have CRPS, stay warm. Stay active. Stay hydrated and if you've never tried relaxation methods, give it a shot. Much love to you all. Thank you for listening.