| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| HopefulAli |
Posted - 04/07/2013 : 22:10:54
Hi everyone!
It has probably been about a year since I have posted, but I would count myself as a "lurker" who occasionally peruses the forum for help or inspiration. :)
I have been a classic TMS-er... my symptoms have run the gamut from knee pain (the original and most persistent), back pain, ankle pain, RSI (wrists), acid reflux, tendinitis, shoulder tendinitis, tooth and jaw pain... After finding Sarno and Schubiner I have improved to where I can generally function with little pain (truly a miracle for those who knew me in my worst days).
Most recently, since starting my PhD in fall 2012 I have dealt with jaw pain and wrist pain (as a result of yoga, and which eventually went away despite continuing to do yoga). For about 2.5 months now I have started running, dancing avidly, and doing yoga about twice a week. I got into the routine of doing fairly intensive exercise most days.
Last week, however, my knee began to act up again like it has not in a long, long while. I tried to get it under control over the first few days by reading Schubiner and SteveO, but for some reason nothing I do seems to help. I have also recently gone off my anxiety meds, so I suspect I am having a harder time coping this time around partially due to that.
Stressful events that might be contributing include waiting to hear about a huge scholarship, juggling two jobs, the upcoming deadline for my dissertation proposal, and the (self-induced) pressure of wanting to complete my first 5 K in three weeks time.
I have stopped training as it hurts to walk and I cannot imagine running. Sad for me even to type that as I had been doing so well up until last week.
This knee problem has been the most enduring; most everything else I can talk myself out of within a few days or so. The reason is because it FEELS physical- my leg tightens up, the knee clicks and grinds...etc. But logically I know it can't be because "injuries" cannot last for 10 years. Even though I know this... I can't help but think maybe I "overdid" it with all my zealous exercising.
From reading almost all the old knee posts, it seems that there is generally less of a consensus that these problems are always TMS, but mine does fit the criteria- diagnosed as patella femoral syndrome/chrondomalacia, had surgery for meniscal tear, resurgence of pain with no precipitating incident, doctors mystified as to origins of pain...
Would love any thoughts, help, or reassurance.
Apologies for length! |
| 2 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| gigalos |
Posted - 04/08/2013 : 16:53:57
Hi Ali,
It's the classic question for all of us: is it really TMS or is there a physical explanation. I still occasionally deal with this question, but I learned that I have my best days when I feel sure it is just TMS.
I feel you are probably right about your own explanation of increased stress. If I read the things you are dealing with right now, my knee almost starts to hurt too. :)
So, my answer, yes, it's probably TMS, but I can't guarantee it sadly.
good luck and take care |
| plum |
Posted - 04/08/2013 : 16:20:05
Hello sweetheart,
Seems like your post almost slipped away in the latest scuffle. Sorry if you felt ignored, normally folk here are pretty good at sharing thoughts and lending shoulders.
I wouldn't focus too much on the location of the pain unless it is particularly significant (symbolic), for you, or you're embracing a Louise Hay approach. There are huge merits to this but it doesn't appeal to everyone. Clearly you're under pressure at the moment and maybe you simply need to ease off and treat yourself kindly. Focusing on a race naturally places your attention on physical matters so consciously turning more to the emotional may help. You mention yoga, do you meditate and practice mindfulness? Ace1's keys may help you. Many people here swear by them. Are your journalling?
As for anxiety, may I suggest you take a look at Claire Weekes. She's the Mama in that field and her work dovetails beautifully with Sarno.
You've come a long way. You'll beat this too.
All the best. |
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