@srdodla Hi there - thank you for reaching out. My apologies for a delayed response. I appreciate your kind words of support, and am happy you found this forum, too!

You've had a rough go from the sounds of it, I'm sorry for that. Thankfully you are still employed, but understandably it is becoming more difficult. I tried 6 months of temporary disability from my job in hopes of "fixing" my stuff and returning, but after attempting to go back for 2 weeks, but it was a fail and long term disability began. I agree about holding off on cervical or any surgery unless you know it is the absolute last option. The cycle of pain is not a fun one to be in.

Since my post that you replied to was written, a lot has changed. I graduated from Mayo Clinic's three-week Pain Rehabilitation Center. I saw it as my only choice to try and get a better hold on how to live with chronic pain and conditions. All the band-aide stuff like I previously listed (and you list above), stopped being effective and I sought a different way. It helped me tremendously and was the best thing I could have done for myself.

Here is a video that may be helpful for you. Dr. Sletten explains Central Sensitization Syndrome (CSS) and the cycle of chronic pain.

- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJNhdnSK3WQ

Also, here is information about the Mayo Clinic Pain Rehabilitation Center that Dr. Sletten talks about in his video.

- https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/pain-rehabilitation-center/sections/overview/ovc-20481691

Finally, here is a link to contact Mayo if ever you chose to inquire about an appointment with any of their 3 campuses or the rehab center itself.

- http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63

Please meet @mitfit who also struggles with chronic pain and inquired about the Mayo Pain Rehabilitation Center. I hope that all who watch and learn from Dr. Sletten are inspired to advocate for themselves, and try to find a better way of living with chronic pain and symptoms.

Looking forward to your replies! Hope you find some inspiration and joy today!!