Living with RSDThis section is a place to share stories about Living with RSD Below are entries of those who have already shared their stories. We hope that you find their experiences helpful to your own situation. You may also Help others by sharing your story. To quickly access health information from your website's browser, download A Positive Outlook I was diagnosed with RSD last February, two months after undergoing discograms in my spine. Apparently the sympathetic nerve was bumped or nicked. The pain began in my right foot but soon migrated to the left foot and legs. Fortunately I was diagnosed quickly and began treatment with a pain specialist. I received ketamine infusions off and on. Unfortunately, after each infusion, the relief was only brief and mild — although greatly appreciated. I haven’t had another infusion since undergoing a four-hour infusion almost two months ago and reporting only mild pain relief. I use a cane and manage to work full-time at a university without taking sick leave. The worst pain follows episodes that cause stress such as loud noises — such as the slamming of a door or a child crying — or a bump to a leg or foot. Because I manage well and don’t complain, my coworkers have pretty much forgotten what I live with. On the one hand I wish people would know because they might be quieter or calmer and keep away from the affected limbs, but on the other hand, I want to pretend that I’m OK and let people think that. I wonder whether they think the cane is necessary. . . I’m afraid that remission is not possible for me and that, of course, causes more pain. I go to a psychologist to help me deal with the pain of RSD and I take antidepressants. The psychologist is helpful and has taught me some ways to live with chronic pain. Certainly the best method for me is to be happy. The psychologist has (you won’t believe this) prescribed one of my cats for me! If I spend an hour or two with the cat on my lap, I’m relaxed and happy — and so is the cat! Another help is to spend time with someone who is calm and peaceful — if you’re lucky to know one. Living with RSD is depressing. Fortunately taking the time to appreciate the good things in life helps me deal with the life with RSD. Comments
October 2007
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