My profession was in the medical field which I dearly loved. I began working at age 16 while still in high school, I was part of the "Health Occupations Work/School" program. After graduating high school I took a
permanent full time position at the clinic I had been employed at through my school program. Eventually I had to quit this position due to an occupational injury sustained while performing medical transcription. The
repetitive motions used by a manual typewriter  finally took it's toll on me.

         
In 1989 I went to work for an orthopedic surgeon as his office manager, a position I held until the fall of 2001. From 2001 through fall of 2003 I worked as a receptionist at another job.  I filed for and received social
security disability. I was one of the lucky few that was awarded benefits upon initial application.
My injuries involve both upper extremities. What began as left tennis elbow in 1987 started my life of chronic pain. 

I've  had surgery on both elbows, both shoulders, and a left radial tunnel release (located in the forearm area). It is the left radial tunnel release that did not help my condition but rather, caused it to become chronic.  I suffer constant and intense burning sensation in my left arm from the elbow to fingertips.  It can be better on some days and much worse on others.  Of course, depression is a secondary problem due to the relentless pain.

                         
I have made many new friends and gained a wealth of information by participating in this Chronic Pain group. I hope that everyone who stops in gleans knowledge and understanding by the many sources of information here.