"It began in January, 1994. when I was diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), now often called CRPS our Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. After 7 Left Lumbar Sacral Blocks and a Left Lumbar Sympathectomy, I still had a large amount of pain, muscle contractions, inability to initiate movement (I fell down a lot), edema (oedema), goose bumps, and the sleeping problems. I tried a lot of different medications and in 1996 I ended up taking 5 medications per day to manage my symptoms.
Managing my pain became the new normal! I was still in pain ( bone pain, nerve pain, musculoskeletal pain, and some neuropathy), but I actually think I got used to feeling a certain level of pain, and would somehow manage to muddle through the day, always remembering in the back of my mind keep going - laying down won't make you feel better. I was told when I was diagnosed that Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy was the pain that never goes away - boy did I believe that!
In 2005 I found alternative wellness products (Sun Ancon Chi Machine, Far Infrared HotHouse Dome, Advanced Electro Reflex Energizer) and currently manage my pain and symptoms with these wellness products instead of 5 medications per day. Since 2005 my goal has been to help others manage their pain through lifestyle changes. This includes sharing my knowledge on the alternative products I use, facilitating support groups to help others learn how to manage their pain and prioritize their life. I have also continued my education and am a CNHP (Certified Natural Health Professional), Certifications in Herbs, Aromatherapy, Iridology, and CranioSacral Therapy.