Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

[livingwith]

Im 55yrs old. After my left knee revision(2nd knee replacement)on my left knee, the diagnosis was Compartment Syndrome due to the swelling and redness that never went away. About 5yrs ago a Neurologist tried to perform an EMG. He concluded I had RSD and suggested I attend the Pain Clinic at the University of WA. All that did was cause my leg to swell ALOT! I came home to my therapist and had Lymphodema Therapy. All they want me to do is wear compression stockings. Anyone with RSD knows how painf...Read the full article

[dar in pa]

Hi Delores,

I'm sorry to hear of all your problems and pain. We all know what horrendous pain we live with 24/7; it is very tiring and depressing.
I have had problems with RSD for over 20 years starting in my left leg and foot. I am now 51 years old and the last 4 years have been awful. It has now taken over my back and lower body, both sides. My legs are shot; I had to go on disability as I cannot walk without a walker and there are days I can barely get out of bed. I also have severe peripheral neuropathy in my feet and cannot even put on a pair of shoes. If I have to go out, all I can wear is flip flops (which I do have to say I have always loved to wear-that is the good side). Along with that my hips are shot due to severe osteoarthritis. I need new ones but, the Drs. won't even touch me because of the RSD and, I really don't want them to.
I don't mean to sound so depressing. I have had a couple nerve blocks which did give me some relief. Unfortunately, they wear off pretty soon. The pain management Dr. now wants to put in a spinal cord stimualtor, since all the medications I have tried do not ease the pain at all. However, I am afraid to try the stimulator; I know there is a trial basis before they put in a permanent one. After reading some of the posts, it is hard to decide. Some have found much relief and others were not to happy with it. That is where I am at now.
I wish you the best and hope you can find some kind of relief. I keep my Faith In God and ask every day for STRENGTH to get me through.

Darlene,


Christine,
If you are reading this, please let me know how you are doing. I have been following your posts and it is not sounding too good. I also wish you the best.

Darlene