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@faithoverfear

Hi,
I reside in western South Dakota and have been dealing with chronic pain most of my life. I am 56 years old and have battled my body since I was 17. Misdiagnosed with MS in 1998 changed to Fibromyalgia and migraine diagnosis in 2010. Two failed back surgeries due to work accident in 2001 have left me battling chronic pain since. I have went through pain rehab, work hardening, and years of injections and pain meds. I recently have been diagnosed with heart failure and PAH. Trying to change my sedentary lifestyle is increasing my pain and frustration. Looking to strengthen my Faith and searching for new pain management strategies.

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Replies to "Hi, I reside in western South Dakota and have been dealing with chronic pain most of..."

Hello @faithoverfear, welcome. I'm sorry, you've been battling a long while for sure. Leaning on strengthening your faith is a wonderful tool to help with pain management. I understand your frustration - having pain makes it difficult to move so we move less, however, not moving also makes it difficult to move as deconditioning or atrophy sets in. It's a pickle!

One thing that has helped in my chronic pain journey was learning that *hurt does not equal harm*.
*This phrase is used when there is a chronic condition and indicative that there is no long an acute issue*. We have to move, even when we hurt. Motion is lotion, move it or lose it...you get the picture. This took me a long while to figure out and it's hard work to make happen, but through moderation and scheduling, it certainly can happen and help.

A process called central sensitization is when there are permanent changes in the spinal cord sending false signals of pain to the brain. This is where hurt does not equal harm comes in. Are you familiar with Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS)?

Very Well Health:
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/central-sensitivity-syndromes-716160

Mayo Clinic - Dr. Christopher Sletten discusses CSS:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJNhdnSK3WQ

So sorry for your latest diagnosis. I've been learning more about congestive heart failure as 2 people dear to my heart have both been diagnosed with it. Has your doctor provided a plan for you beyond lifestyle changes? Will there be surgery, perhaps? If you're comfortable sharing more, I am interested in learning.