chronic pain
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Daily Prompt – Walk or Run – 9.13.25
The author discusses the challenges of walking and running due to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and L4 facet joint arthropathy, which cause joint pain and electrical shocks. Despite these difficulties and a spinal cord stimulator that often fails, they are gradually increasing their walking and stair climbing, focusing on recovery. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 48) Recharge My Spinal Cord Stimulator With Me!
The author shares their experience recharging their spinal cord stimulator, showcasing videos of the process. They encourage followers to connect on various social media platforms and are open to questions about their journey. The stimulator’s battery is implanted under the skin in the lower back and requires charging through the skin. Continue reading
advice, chronic illness, chronic pain, communication, community, content warning, ehlers danlos, family, Free, health, help, journal, life, lumbar, me too, no paywalls, outreach, pain management, personal truth, perspective, resources, self help, self improvement, spinal stimulator, struggle, survivor, therapy, trigger warning -
Zebra Files 44) Treatment Review-Hyaluronic Acid
The author discusses their experience with Hyaluronic Acid injections for knee pain relief due to the ineligibility for steroid and stem cell treatments. Despite the painful procedure, initial results show significant improvement in pain levels and knee functionality. The injections, required every 3-6 months, are covered by Medicaid, offering a hopeful solution. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 35) Pain Group
The author attended a Pain Support Group for the first time, prompted by feelings of mild suicidality, depression, and anxiety. While reflecting on their struggles, they shared emotions and experiences with others, finding some usefulness in the conversation. Although physically exhausting, they’re open to the potential benefits of the group. Continue reading
advice, chronic pain, communication, community, content warning, EDS, ehlers danlos, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, family, Free, gaslighting, group therapy, health, help, journal, life, lifestyle, me too, medical gaslighting, Medicine, Mental Health, no paywalls, outreach, personal truth, perspective, resources, self help, self improvement, struggle, support, survivor, therapy, trigger warning, waste of time, Zebra -
Zebra Files 32) Getting My Butt Kicked By Everything
The author reflects on their challenges managing physical pain and limitations, particularly during physical therapy. Despite planning and efforts, they struggle with pain that affects their work and daily activities. Yet, they experience moments of improvement and hope. Upcoming dental surgery and participation in a pain support group offer potential paths forward. Continue reading
advice, chronic pain, communication, community, content warning, EDS, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, family, fitness, Free, health, help, journal, life, lifestyle, me too, Medicine, Mental Health, no paywalls, outreach, personal truth, perspective, PT Physical Therapy, resources, self help, self improvement, struggle, survivor, therapy, trigger warning, Zebra -
Zebra Files 24) Settling In
On day two of a lifestyle change, the writer confronts strong cravings and the challenge of balancing allowable, appealing, and easy-to-prepare foods. While struggling with discomfort, they acknowledge that improvement feels minimal, focusing instead on reducing misery. Acceptance of this ongoing journey becomes crucial for long-term success. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 19) The Symptoms
The author shares a comprehensive list of their various health symptoms and diagnoses, including ADHD, autism, arthritis, and chronic pain. They aim to track their health changes as they interact with specialists and emphasize that the list serves as a reference. Many symptoms are severe and include issues like fatigue and digestive sensitivities. Continue reading
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22) Mom
The narrative recounts the author’s complicated relationship with their mother following their father’s suicide. It depicts their mother’s struggles while raising her children amid grief, her strong personality, unique habits, and joys, such as cooking and gardening. Over time, her bitterness and distance grew, reflecting deep emotional turmoil. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 33) What Happened To Nappin?
The author reflects on their struggles to implement a health plan that has ultimately failed due to unpredictable pain and fatigue. Despite making adjustments like relocating their work station, they continue to face setbacks, including physical therapy difficulties. They remain hopeful, planning to share insights and routines to improve their quality of life. Continue reading
advice, chronic pain, communication, community, content warning, EDS, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, family, Free, health, help, journal, life, lifestyle, Medicine, Mental Health, naps, no paywalls, outreach, personal truth, perspective, physical therapy, Protyus A. Gendher, recovering spoons, resources, rest, self help, self improvement, spoon theory, struggle, survivor, therapy, trigger warning, Wellness, Zebra -
Zebra Files 4) The First Bite Is The Deepest
The author reflects on starting a lifestyle change by limiting coffee intake and choosing healthier options. They plan to develop a comprehensive nutrition and exercise regimen over the weekend, tracking progress without focusing solely on weight. Exploring personal improvements, they aim for gradual success and will document their journey moving forward. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 3) Being Treated Like a Hypochondriac
The author recounts their struggles with medical professionals who dismiss their serious symptoms as hypochondria, attributing them instead to common issues like weight. They detail multiple distressing symptoms, their search for a correct diagnosis, and a newfound awareness of potential connections to connective tissue disorders, all amid frustration and medical gaslighting. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 2) One Bite at a Time…
The blog discusses the author’s journey of managing hypermobility syndrome through diet and lifestyle changes, likening the process to “eating an elephant” one bite at a time. It reflects on past dietary experiences, the challenges of living with restrictions, and the support from family and work, emphasizing self-discovery and gradual improvement. Continue reading
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Zebra Files 1) Zebras Exist
The author reflects on their long struggle with undiagnosed health issues, leading to a recent diagnosis of Hypermobility Syndrome. After years of unrecognized symptoms and pain, they acknowledge the role social media played in self-discovery. They seek validation and connection, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and sharing their journey as a “Zebra.” Continue reading
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