Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

[livingwith]

Hi, my name is Caroline, I am 42 years old, happily married with two daughters and living in Canada. Today I found out that I have RSD Three years ago I had spinal fusion on my lumbar spine. I have had a great deal of pain in my lower back, buttocks and left leg.
This past summer, my left leg began to hurt even more. It was different. A few weeks later I noticed a large lump on the front of my left (upper) leg. It was hard and extremely tender to touch. I went to my family dr. he sent me...Read the full article

[tinkybell803]

Hi,
I read your post I was amazed to hear how similar our stories are. I have not been officially diagnosed with RSD. It was only mentioned to me by an Orthopedic Surgeon that I had a 2nd opinion with. I had the same surgery as you did back in Jan. 06 I have been dealing with my legs since my 3 month post-op when I told my surgeon my legs were hurting. He told me was part of the healing process and I should not worry about it. Well 2 years later and confined to either a walker or a wheelchair nobody seems to be able to figure out what is wrong with me. RSD is the closest thing I have been told it may be. I have been to so many Dr, therapist (physical & emotional) trying to deal with this.
Anyway, I wanted to ask you about your surgery. Did you have your incision in your back or your front (stomach)? I had mine through my stomach which left a pretty hefty scar (at least 5 inches) on the left side of my belly button. When I saw the Orthopedic surgeon for my 2nd opinion he stated to me that he had heard of this type of procedure but has 1. never performed it that way 2. has not seen anyone that has. As you can imagine that comment scared the crap out of me as this Dr is one of the top 10 ortho's in California. The surgeon that actually did the surgery is also.
I have not had any lumps as you stated. However, I did notice last week that I have these large pea size bumps along the front of my left leg which has me concerned. I wonder also if you still work? I was taken out of work last April as I could no longer perform my job (executive Assistant to the CEO) to the standards that was necessary. I can't even imagine trying to work at this time. Since April I have rapidly went down hill. I am going to see a top Neurologist this week for hopefully a diagnosis at the least. I have waited 8 months to get in with this Dr. Who diagnosed your RSD? It sounds like from your message that it was the Sports Medicine Dr. I hope the best for you and that you can continue to live your life healthy and happy. I would love to talk with you more about this you can email me at [moderator note: e-mail address has been removed]
Thanks
Theresa
California

[dar in pa]

Hi Caroline,

I understand your pain. My 1st post is on the forum today. To save repeating it to you, please read it.

I do not know what caused my RSD. About 20 years ago I "injured" my back; however, every medical test imaginable showed nothing. Of course, with RSD, this is not uncommon. Thus, as you say, drs. and even family think we are just crazy. They just cannot believe the pain that comes with this. There are days I think I am going to lose my mind. I, then, have to take a xanax and usually cry myself to sleep.

I have six cats and they are my life. If it were not for them, there are days I would just lay in bed and cover my head and just wait to die. But, they keep me going. I know they "need me" and I get up and take care of them. Then I can't say what I do next; it depends on the pain.

I am 51 years old and feel like I am 80. I am using a walker to get around, as my legs are just shot. It really upsets me as I used to work full time and loved to shop. All of that is now gone; I am lucky to just maneuver around my house.

I am sorry if I have rambled on too much. Sometimes when the mind gets going, there is just so much you want to say.

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and all the "RSDer's" who suffer this unimaginable pain.

I just wish this would be the year the medical community could find a way to stop all of the pain.
Happy, HEALTHY New Year to you.

dar in pa