Sprry you are getting so beat up. Are you keeping your heel down as you twist out? Are you releasing at the bottom of the pedal stroke? SPDSLs are a little-little bit tougher to get out of than Looks....But not THAT much. KEOs should be easy in and out.
If they have time ... we put our Clipless pedal clients on a trainer and have them get used to the motion before going on the road. Next we advise they take a ride in the grass park and get the hang of it. We rarely have customers with your experience.
Hope it works out.