New Chronic Pain Member

I have been reading various forums for over a month and can relate to many.  My journey with chronic pain

began in 1992 when I hurt my back at work.  Had alot of different medical procedures before I had a 360 fusion

at L4=L5 in Jan, 1993.  While waiting for surgery fell off ladder and destroyed l-knee.  I have had at least 6

surgeries on my left knee to include acl, partial knee and a total knee replacement in 9/2010. 

Partial was a failure from the beginning.  Metal piece became loose and chipped away at bones for 2 years.  TKR

has been very disappointing.  My gait has been off from the beginning and low back is a mess due to poor body

mechanics.  Have been to pt etc.  about 6 month's ago at dog park I was run into by a pack of dogs.  Ruptured

acl in right leg.  What luck.  Just had a bone scan and it appears that I have mild osteopenia.  It is hard to not

ask  yourself why?

I moved into a house 10 years ago that was partially built by my family and myself by donating hours for the down

payment.  To be honest I still have not moved in.  My motivation waxes and wanes.  I officially retired from my

job in 2005.  After knee surgery I could barely get out of the house but have made great strides to improve my

life.  I go to counselling, will start water therapy again on Monday and am forcing myself to participate in functions.

I am very sensitive to medications but take norco and just restarted on an antidepressant.  It's funny how some

think you have it made just because you have a retirement and the luxury to lay around all day and eat bon bons.

Really, I don't think so.

I return to my knee Dr. begining of May, something is wrong with the surgery.  Also had an mri of my spine and

there are problems with discs above and below surgery site.  Trying to get appt. with Dr.

Well that is some of my life in a nut shell.  I love the support member's give each other.  It is comforting.

that was my only alternative left as I had tried everything else.  I was in alot of pain and could barely walk.  The

fusion was a success.  I think the knee problems have taken a toll on my spine.  The research that I have done

seems to reveal that when people have knee surgery they usually need back surgery down the line. 

Constant pain is very draining and sometimes makes it very hard to get motivated to engage in activities

outside of the home.

Thanks again for your feedback.  Carol