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Member Neuropathy Journey Stories: What's Yours?

Neuropathy | Last Active: Oct 17 5:52am | Replies (571)

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@jan64

I am awaiting results of my skin biopsy. I don't know what I want more: a negative or a positive. I have all the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, but no proof since my MRI and EMG didn't show much except some problems with my neck and lower back (not enough to warrant surgery). I feel like people don't believe me because I look normal and continue to function (at about 25% of my previous self). I am waiting until I get new insurance to change my PCP who did nothing when my pain was off the charts. I know you wrote your experience years ago. How was the Rehab program?

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Replies to "I am awaiting results of my skin biopsy. I don't know what I want more: a..."

Hello @jan64. I'm sorry you're experiencing neuropathy symptoms and all that comes with. It is quite a learning curve to adapt to change or loss of function or abilities. I definitely feel your words and have compassion for you.

Indeed, it was 4 years ago (wow, already) October 26th, that I entered the pain rehab center at Mayo Clinic. PRC was one of the best experiences of my life. The program teaches a person as a whole and equips them strategies and a plan to move forward with chronic issues they have through physical, emotional, behavioral, and chemical coaching and therapies.

I was diagnosed with central sensitization which is a central nervous system syndrome causing chronic pain and or heightened sensory dysfunction. During the time neuropathy was kicking my butt, I was focused strictly on that not quite understanding there was a bigger picture. For that matter the PRC program was exactly what I needed to make the most out of how life had changed and how to find positivity and adaptation moving forward to focus on what I could do versus what I couldn't.

It appears you're on the right track and having the proper testing. I wish you good luck with the skin punch biopsy results and completely understand the perplexity of emotions and not knowing if you hope for positive or negative results. My opinion of that is to learn and understand as much as you can about your condition, be your best advocate and make sure you clearly understand from your doctors what your body is dealing with so that you can move forward with a plan. Will you report back on your results?