Chronic Pain Often Follows U.S. Soldiers Home: Study

[cory777]

Source: Health Day

FRIDAY, June 25 (HealthDay News) -- At first, Darisse Smith tried to shake off the throbbing in her back and leg. An Army captain, helicopter pilot and triathlete, she was used to pushing herself physically and mentally.

But as her Iraq deployment continued, the pain grew more intense, until it felt like she was being stabbed. She could hardly sit, stand or walk, let alone fly, and was eventually medically discharged.

The next two years were a blur of pain medications and surgeries. "It was a rough time," Smith said. "At home I would not want to talk to anybody. My husband saw me withering away."

Finally, with the help of doctors at Southeast Pain Care in Charlotte, N.C., and an implanted spinal cord stimulator, Smith improved substantially. She has also become a pain advocate for the American Pain Foundation, helping to raise awareness about the complex conditions facing veterans and encouraging them to seek help if they're experiencing pain.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20100625/hl_hsn/chronicpainoftenfollowsussoldiershomestudy

[clarence swinney]

1. Afghan Grandson

Handsome. Smart.

He facebooks how it is affecting minds to be in such a horrible place. Each step is danger. Purpose?
Our security? 7000 miles away. Third poorest nation.
Bring em home alive.