STRESS

[betty]

I am going through a lot of stress from a family situation and notice that my pain is worse.
Do any of you feel like things hurt more when under stress?

Betty

[linda]

Hi Betty,

Sorry to hear that, but you're only 3 + MONTHS out of surgery, you must still have pain under ordinary circumstances.

I can tell you in my life, stress was a leading factor in my decision to leave my job. I had personal life stress and stress that comes from work. So I guess in answer to your question, yes. I think pain causes stress and stress causes pain, what a awful cycle!

I see that you are a dog lover....knowing that, your pet must a wonderful source of comfort in tough times. Mine was! I hope you'll find some relief soon.

linda c.

[cindylee]

Stress and I have been companions for quite awhile now! And Betty, I do agree that if you have stress, it makes everything else in your body worse. I find that I get more spasms in my back, my muscles tighten up more. Then I have more fatigue just from all that is going on with my body. I don't know how to avoid the stress. I am still learning to just deal with it. Cindy

[Linda51]

Yes, stress is bad on us after these sct. It makes everything 10 times worse than what it really is. Your also still in early recovery so it probably a mixture of both but to answer your question stress is not a good thing.

`Linda

[Tmasgio]

Oh Yeah! Caffeine,Alcohol, and cigarettes. Life cannot be fun. I loved all of those things at one time. Try meditation or wine in the evening to reduce the stress.

[betty]

Thanks guys. I agree with all the above. Monday I have my 3 month MRI and that too is a bit stressful. I think I have mentioned before my husband goes with me and holds my feet for support and comfort. I take an ativan before and calmly endure the clanking noise for two hours. Mine are always done cervical and thoracic with and without dye.
My dogs are a great source of comfort for me.
I had a strength eval the other day for my arms and shoulders. One or two of the readings were the lowest the Dr had ever seen... Yippee. My PT benefits are running low, only about 9 more left.
I am telling myself and asking God to help me let go of things I cannot control in others lives.
I have enough problem with my own.I am grateful I am doing as well as I am.
Betty

[8338]

I have to agree.
For me the things that make my pain worst is stress, chocolate, alcohol and caffeine.
But I loooooooooooooooooove chocolate- so I suffer :-)

I am with Cindy in that when I'm stressed it all goes to my neck and upper back.

Barb

[bethann]

Mary Free Bed is helping me with the stress along with the PT. Learning how to breath (I am still not so good at it but trying)and relax your body does help. Doing the stretching is also very important. The psychologist was telling me this week that I have quite a bit of anxiety ..... I said who wouldn't and how can you not when you hurt all the time. She said good conversation for next week so.......I am anxiously waiting for that conversation.

[betty]

Wow Beth I am so happy you are getting all this good care there,
You can pass on what you learn to us.
Betty

[juliefromca]

Yes, I know I do. I think we tend to tighten up our muscles, which are needed to support us, and then we start hurting. Have you tried to tighten, then release, each muscle from head to toe. I recommend it. It can really help you to "learn" how to relax the muscles becuz you tighten first and then you are able to feel what it feels like for them to be relaxed.

good luck and take care,

julie