Hi! Sorry to hear that you're dealing with so much pain. Chronic pain (whatever the source) does make it challenging to exercise, but there are ways to still get it w/out causing you too much additional pain.
I deal with chronic pain too (although not due to PTS) and I have found that hydro-therapy does wonders. If you live near an indoor pool or other facility that offers exercise programs, it would be worth it to check it out. Indoor pools are especially great if you live in a colder winter climate area as you can do it year round. My mom is very overweight and suffers from chronic pain from the same condition I have (it's hereditary) and she enrolled in a swimming/exercise program and had great success. Water is the best as you do not have to put weight on the injured area..and in the case of PTS, it might be beneficial as the pressure from the water might help the thrombosis. Stationary bikes are another thought.
Whatever you decide, you are on the right track to want to lose weight. The excess weight only worsens the pain of PTS, as I'm sure you know. I recommend joining a group or exercising with a friend as you'll be more motivated to continue.
I have not seen anything in regards to a cure or effective prevention for PTS (other than pressure stockings and anti-coagulants)....but a possible option would be to enroll in a clinical trial (check out clinicaltrials.gov) if you're near a large city or university. There might be some trials out there that offer you a chance to participate where you can get the most current/cutting edge therapy.
If all else fails, ask for a prescription of a low dose pain killer from your doctor and maybe that will give you enough relief to be able to exercise (just go easy so you don't cause any further damage).
Good luck to you!
K.
