I have RSD from a recent injury. Does anyone know anyway to treat it?

Question

Please supply links if you can. Thanks

Answer 1

I'm sorry to hear you have RSD. There are many treatment options, and in general, the quicker you start treatment, the better your chances are for recovering.

Physical therapy, as was mentioned by another poster, is integral. However, there are many additional ways of dealing with RSD. The first step for any RSD patient should be to find a good pain management doctor. This doctor should be an anesthesiologist (most pain management doctors are) who has treated many other cases of RSD. Treatment options include nerve blocks (local anesthetic injections) and medication. And of course, both should be done with physical therapy.

In terms of medication, the first-stop option usually includes anti-seizure and related medications like Neurontin and Lyrica. Also, older antidepressants like Elavil (amytriptiline) are often used. There are lots of others that could be used as well.

In my opinion, the two best websites out there about RSD are http://www.rsds.org and http://www.rsdhope.org - the first is the website of the RSDSA, a major national (American) organization that works with doctors and patients. The second site is RSDHope, which has tons of information and links to other sites.

I hope this helps you!

Answer 2

There are several ways to treat this disorder. I also have it. I use a TENS unit, spend time in a HOT TUB, have tried various relaxation techniques, have a treat treatment team which include a physical therapist, counselor and pain doctor. I have use special creams (one that helps the most is capsapin called SOMBRA), and I take pain pills and an Anti Depressant called Cymbalta. No one technique or pills or treatmetn works for everyone that has RSD. I have had it for going on 5 years now. I am actually disabled because of it. I have it in my left arm. I would invite you to go to my website and participate in the forum and chat and read my blog on RSD.

http://chronicpain-byladyfrog.com

You will find resources that are very handy for people with RSD.

Answer 3

RSD is a real bear to deal with, and you need to be patient.

I am hopeful that you are working with a skilled therapist (occupational or physical therapist) who is helping you understand this condition. If you need a therapist, go to APTA.org, click on "Find a PT", and search your home area.

In general, this problem is treated with desensitization = gradually putting more stress on the body part so it gets used to being touched. Right now it is having a disproportionate response to touch, reporting a lot more pain to your brain than is warranted. Gradual desensitization is your best bet to correct.
Good luck.