Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

[livingwith]

A year ago when I went to walk I had pain on the outer edge of my ankle but after “walking it out” it would go away. In June it started throbbing and not going away. I went to the hospital and they put my ankle in a brace and told me to ice it. When I put ice on it, it felt like it was burning through my skin. I have had a bone scan, xray and MRI and two doctors think I have RSD because when one doctor saw me my leg was cold and a different colour and the extremity of the pain. ...Read the full article

[lschlege]

Ya know, it probably is RSD...Don't believe everything the Dr's tell you, if they try to tell you it is just pain that will subside on is own. Read everthing you can! Don't wait a month for the neurologist if at all possible. See a couple more if they don't seem to know as much as you, with all the information you have read. I was told that most doctors will not and do not want to deal with RSD patients, there is not enough information and they are not "up on it". But I had read up on it and was "loaded for bear" when I started the rounds with the dr's. My physical therapist was my savior! And with his backing me, I was able to get what I believe is good help. All the Dr's I saw respected my research and believed me. I saw a really good pain management/neurologist who knew as much as me and even more, and she got me on some meds that seem to help. also a topical ointment that really helps alot, but...I was lucky! I hoe you will be lucky too!

Exercize can be painful. Ice is he worst thing and can increase the pain, but you found that out the hard way I did too!! I got the same results in a hot tub. I read a hot tub would be great...not so for everyone. I felt like I stuck my leg in a fire and my leg swelled up like a balloon! BUT I found swimming at a local heated pool, 85 degrees, is really helping me. As well as the right meds and good physical thereapy. Both physically and mentally! Like you I am going crazy!

Good Luck! Lori