Hi everyone,
I’m new to the group and wanted to introduce myself. Living with chronic pain and disabilities can feel incredibly isolating, and I’m joining because I want to connect with people who truly understand the daily journey, make some friends, and offer support to others however I can, and also receive advice on what works for you.
My journey started about four years ago after a severe fall. I stepped out of a slipper, fell, and badly shattered my right leg. It required two massive, 5-hour surgeries. The first surgery had major complications, including misplaced hardware and bone fragments, which required a specialist to do a second reconstructive surgery a 3 months later to fix it properly.
About six months into recovery, my right foot and leg turned red and purple, swelled up, looked shiny, and the pain became absolutely incredible. That is when I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Since then, it has unfortunately spread up my whole right leg, into my hip, and my back.
To add to the challenge, I also have:
Blood Clot Disorders: I have 5 blood clot disorders and have survived 3 blood clots (one of which traveled to my lungs). Because of this, my doctors strictly forbid any surgical therapies, nerve blocks, or procedures that carry a clot risk. I am also highly allergic/reactive to blood-thinning medications and many other drugs.
Left Leg & Back Issues: My left leg has neuropathy from the past clots and old damage from a car wreck. Because I’ve had to put all my weight on my left leg to help with my CRPS leg for the last four years, my left side is now severely strained.
Because of my strict medical limitations, the only treatments I’ve been able to safely use are specialized CRPS physical therapy and limited medications. I still rely on a walker to get around.
Because so many standard CRPS therapies are off the table for me, I am really hoping to connect with others who have similar limitations. I want to find out if there are any gentle, non-invasive, or alternative things you have tried that I haven't heard of yet.
I’m looking forward to getting to know you all, sharing our journeys, and being a supportive friend in this community.
Thank you for welcoming me!
Classi (@classidawn)