2. I am working on actively using the therapy exercises and TENS unit to control my pain before it gets to levels where I have to take more medication.

So I’m going to write out a specific plan detailing, on a weekly basis, the sort of exercise I want to get – it will mostly be walking and yoga, because I used to do a lot more of each and haven’t done much of either so far this year.

Thanks for suggesting this contest – I think that, prize or no prize, it’s really useful to encourage people to take these steps, to actually document what they plan to do, because once it’s written down it’s a lot easier to carry through with it. So thanks!

http://laurawilliamsmusings.blogspot.com/2008/01/tuesday-122-edition-of-contests-galore.html

I thought people should read that she is an inspiration and that they should visit her site for motivation and encouragement.

Thanks. Christine

For example, 1) I’m in “contemplation” for using pain management skills, and 2) I’ll write the pros and cons.

Most of the comments above list in detail what they’ll do, but that’s not necessary to enter the contest. (Of course, to help yourself the most, it is best to write out whatever step you’ll take somewhere – here or on your own.)

Great participation. And I’ll use all of these entries for an article in a few weeks, so we learn from each other.

My plan.
1.When I notice I am anxious, tired, lacking in concentration or in worse pain I will stop.
2.I’ll massage an acupressure point for relaxation for a few minutes.
3. I’ll think about what is the best thing to do whether that’s change posture, activity, rest etc.
4. I’ll do it.

Step two is there not just to relax but also to give time to make the right decision. If I don’t pause to think I know I will just go on with what I’m doing.

The above is my stage because at this point I can only contemplate what I want to change. As soon as my restriction to my bed is done, I am contemplating walking short distances until I can build up strength to walk large distances.

The pros of walking would be:
1. Muscle strength back in my legs.
2. Building up outside time to get vitamin D from the sun.
3. Gaining strength and conquering my pain, enough so that I may go play at the park with my child and husband.
4. Building up strength so that I can get off the medications that I now take for my RSD/CRPS
5. Last, but certainly not least, to lose the weight that I have gained since my injury occurred. Maybe even more than that.

The cons to starting walking are few. The one that is major is:
1. The pain from using my RSD/CRPS affected leg will be excruciating. But if I don’t strengthen my legs or myself, my RSD can get worse, thereby causing more pain. Catch 22.

So when given permission – I will be walking.