Subject: Re: RSD
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum

Topic Area: Reflex Sympathetic

Yes Sir: My question is. My problem began when I started having problems with my hands. I was diagnosed with bilateral carpul tunnel syndrome by an emg. I had the surgery on my right hand for a mediun and ulner nerve release at the wrist. After surgery I started to have severe burning and swelling and my doctor stated to me that I was doing fine and it was just post op pain. This went on until I had a MRI of my wrist which was negative, and then a arthogram of my wrist which was also negative. Then I had a nuclear bone scan done and it came back positive for RSD. My symptoms now are pain in my wrist, limited range of moton, swelling, and severe muscle spasms that have begun in my neck
area and shoulder. I previously had a spinal fusion times 2 in 1994 and 1995. I am fused and when this problem with my hands first started out I thought it was related to my prior neck surgeries for fusion of C7-T1. I had an anterior fusion that did not take and a year later they had to do a posterior fusion with wire. I went in and they did another mylogram which came back negative for my neck. I have had 3 stellate ganglion blocks with excellant relief. I had no more pain and I had full range of motion in my hand but the blocks only lasted for about 10 hours each and I got to the point with an invasive procedure like this it was not worth getting stuck with a needle for this short of a period of relief. I am on Neurontin now at a dose of 1600mg a day. I am having severe muscle spasm in my right SCM muscle. The one that comes down the right side of my neck and under my right shoulder blade daily 24/7. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated for a ex born and raised cleveland resident that now resides in Texas. Thank you very much and will be waiting for your reply. I have run out of answers. This has gotten me very frustrated on what to do now.

Dear Steve:

Sorry about your pain problems. RSD is very difficult to relieve. It takes dedication, pursuing therapy in spite of the pain, and having stubbornness to completely go through the therapy until the pain resolves. We have seen RSD patients who float from one pain clinic to another looking for easy ways to resolve the pain, usually pain medications. The few who become pain-free or close to pain-free are those that go through the long rehab. Find a good neurologist and physical/occupational therapist and rehab center and began the journey. I realize that it isn't fair that you got RSD and someone else didn't, for we do not understand the etiology of RSD well. Hang in there and finish the rehab as best you can.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD

Follow Ups:

• RSD Steve 6/28/1999 (2)
  • Re: RSD CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS 6/28/1999 (1)
    • RSD Steve 6/28/1999 (0)

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