Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

[livingwith]

I first posted my story when I was diagnosed with RSD in February of 2007in my left arm. Since that time I have had 30 Stellate Ganglion Blocks and 6 Radiofrequency Burns for shaking. The blocks really helped me, but the best help I received was when my hand surgeon at the Hospital for Special Surgery prescribed water aerobics. I go 5 times per week and it has really helped me. I have regained some strength and the pain isn’t as difficult to deal with. I have been able to cut down on t...Read the full article

[billkelly]

I also injured my left arm almost 3 years ago. I have about 30% use of left arm and hand and that is after the tendon transfer surgery the hand surgeon did. I have had 22 stellate blocks but they barely make a difference. I am on a high dose of the Fentanyl patch for pain but the side effects are awful. How do you get people around you to really understand the hell you are constantly in without sounding like you're whining?