Hi. I'm also new to this forum, but I've had CRPS since 1996 in my left arm (wasn't diagnosed until 2007). Fortunately it only directly affects the arm, but my pain "response" is to clinch up all of my muscles, so I have a lot of neck, shoulder, and back pain as a result. My arm below the elbow is completely useless. Atrophy is severe, but it's just my new normal.

I work, but I definitely have lost productivity.

I take gabapentin, but it makes me forgetful. How does that other drug you take work for you? Gabapentin doesn't fix anything (meaning I still have a lot of pain), but if I miss a dose, I definitely pay for it. I've tried lyrica, but it made me even more stupid. I've tried add ons like amytripyline and cymbalta, but both of these just gave me the runs and didn't relieve the pain.

Mine has gotten a little worse over time, but notice that it hurts more toward the end of the day. I also have bad days and good days, and i can't diagnose what causes it to be worse on some days. Open to suggestions.

I typically rely on vicoden in very small doses for "breakthrough" pain relief, and it works quite well. I still have some pain, but the intensity is WAY less. Problem I'm having now if just relocated to new city and takes FOREVER to get into a pain clinic, and most have no idea about advanced treatments for CRPS. I'm still waiting, and have no pain killers.

Like another response, I had a few nerve blocks done back in '07, '08, and had amazing relief for about 3 days. Unfortunately having the procedure every three days is not an option. Still, it's worth trying to see if your relief lasts longer.

Honestly, what works best for me is to "accept" the flare ups, close my eyes, and concentrate on deep breathing. As I release the deep btreath, the pain flare up gradually subsides. After a couple of breaths, I get relief. Of course the relief can last anywhere from 30 seconds to 5 minutes, but it's relief, and feels a lot better than a continuous battle against the flare.

This pain sucks. I really wish there was a way around it.