[stacyw]

ok, I was diagnosed with rsd/crps after a stingray barb went completely through my leg in front of my ankle, and then went back out doing quite a bit of mechanical damage. (yes, a fish kicked my *ss). It wasn't cleaned properly and I had a massive infection requiring surgery to clean it and cut out the infection and a dead tendon. my rsd symptoms didn't start until immediately after the skin graft (2nd surgery). It's been about 5 months. It started with the constant burning of my right foot/shin. then stabbing, shooting and deep aching cold. I have been sick for the last couple of days, and today bot of my feet are burning and both of my hands. Really strong on the bottom of my feet, where it was always worse on the top of my right foot. Is there any other possible explanation. I don't want to "expect" symptoms into existence, but there is no doubt about the burning. Is there anything I can do? I'm not depressed now, but I am concerned. It has strengthened and spread if there is no other explanation. and so FAST! What has your experience been? I go to the pm dr Thursday. Should I call, or just wait until the appt? stacy

[SALLIE]

Stacy

My husband also developed RSD after a second knee surgery in February 09, the RSD spread very fast into both feet and knees. Workers comp delayed the appointment with the PM clinc and he ended up with a blood clot that went into his lung. They could not do any blocks for three months because of blood thinners. He went on Neurotin and oxicotine to treat it until they could do more, he was also told to move around as much as he can. Since then the spreading and pain have gotten much better, he is still dealing with alot of pain but he can now walk and ride an battery assist bike.

Sallie

[stacyw]

now my hands don't hurt anymore, but both feet do. at least it's not really bad. Warm baths help me, so I bought a parafin wax bath for only $30. It feels great!! well worth the investment, smells good and makes the skin soft too....I guess I'll just tell the doc next week and let him figure it out. I'm glad he is doing better. Staying as active as possible seems to be a key factor in the prognosis/progression. I am on nortriptyline, avinza, lortab, and effexor. What a cocktail! Never thought I would be on so many meds. and so expensive!!! The price of avinza (105.00 for 1 month with insurance) is killing me. thanks, stacy

[Bussey]

Hello staceyw,

It sounds like you have been through a harrowing experience! I'm sorry that as a result, you developed RSD!

I'm glad that you are feeling better, especially your hands. In some cases, the RSD spreads rapidly, for no obvious reasons. Then, in other cases, for no obvious reasons, the RSD gets better. Hopefully, the RSD has not spread to your other limbs.

It is a known fact, that moving a limb that is affected by RSD as much as possible, can definitely lead to a better prognosis. However, in other cases, the RSD will continue to progress, in spite of movement of the limb. Each patient is different, and I hope that continuing to move your limbs as much as possible, will lead to a much more positive prognosis for you.

Take care.

Bussey