AboutRusty Ford Expertise I can answer questions about most types of arthritis and the drugs and procedures used to treat them.
Experience I manage the one of largest arthritis websites on the internet http://arthritis-symptom.com/ I have been involved with publishing artritis research for 15 years and aswering questions related to almost any type of arthitis.
Organizations Arthritis-Symptom.com
Arthritis Foundation
Expert: Rusty Ford Date: 6/1/2008 Subject: open calcanous fracture/RSD
Question I am a 45 year old female who was involved in a head on
motor vehicle accident 7 years ago. I have had multiple surgeries, external fixator, Severe Neuropathy with only one motor unit working in my right foot. I have severe ossification of the bones and severe chronic pain. I do work but am barely staying above water. I do not enjoy many things anymore because my pain is so severe and with working that is just about all that I can do. I use the TENS unit, Celebrex, Neurontin, Vicodin ES, Desaryl, and Zoloft. My daily life is getting extremely unbearable. I am physically and mentally exhausted from dealing with all of the complex pain and issues that I have. Is there any hope for some quality of life, should disability be something I should consider. Prior to the accident I was very active, I have three teenagers, worked two part time jobs and am married. My whole family was involved in the accident, my daughter and husband also sustained severe injuries. Life has just been very difficult for us. I just feel like giving up and quit fighting this and take care of my family. Accepting this is very difficult for me, if you have any advise please inform of anything that you believe may help me sustain a more comfortable life without all of the pain and stress.
Answer Jean,
I am so sorry to hear about your suffering. My heart goes out to both you and your family.
Unfortunately there is little you can do above what you are already doing to treat the condition. There are two supplements you can try Omega 3 fatty acids and Cetyl Myristoleate. Both are types of fatty acids. I find that for most people Cetyl Myristoleate is more effective. Omega 3 fatty acids have many other health benefits besides just controlling inflammation. If you try Omega 3 make sure that in enteric coated so it will not digest in the stomach to prevent burping up a fish taste.
Vicodin is one of the mildest prescription pain relievers. Many doctors do not like to prescribe stronger but there comes a time when pain is severe enough that quality of life out weighs the risks.
Disability is certainly an option. If your work has disability insurance that is the place to start. More often it will pay more than Social Security disability (SSD) and is easier to qualify for. If you decide to apply for SSD plan to appeal. They routinely reject even the most qualified people.
