He said: "I have physically recovered from the torn anterior cruciate ligament in my right knee that I suffered on the 2004 summer tour.
"But throughout the time that I've been trying to get better with my knee I've been troubled by chronic back and groin pain. Back pain is something that I've been accustomed to since I was 13 or 14 but the problem has worsened and knowing that I'm not fit to play is immensely depressing for me.
"I've made up my mind that I need to relieve the incessant pressure on me that surrounds the question of when I'd be fit to play again and that taking time out from rugby is the best solution for me."
Tom will continue to receive physiotherapy but stresses his priority is simply to get better and that he cannot look beyond that. Scotland head coach Frank Hadden said: "It's very sad news, not only for Tom, but also for Scotland and Edinburgh but I respect his decision and hope he can regain good health as swiftly as possible.
"There is no point in engaging in speculation if Tom may be able to return to rugby in the future because such speculation just increases the frustration for Tom. It goes without saying that I have every sympathy for him at this very difficult time."
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