Anyone out there have Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?

Question

Stellate ganglion blocks have not worked and now I use a TENS unit almost daily.
How do you cope? What have you tried to help you out.
My case is not as severe as some and most people do not notice the physical appearence but, it can bring me down at times.

Answer 1

My wife has it, both feet.

They installed a spinal cord stimulator device which functions like an internal TENS unit. It "jams" the pain signals from her feet.

Depression is very much a part of chronic pain. I know it sounds silly, but a lot of depression management is being aware of what gets you down and changing your thinking strategies. Prescribed meds also are wonderful, and can help you with the above.

I can't tell you how awed I am by my wife pushing on with this. I'd be a wuss with that kind of pain. She keeps on going for the most part, and listens to her body when it gets too much.

Talk to your doc about depression, they can't help if they don't realize that's an issue.