thanks Ali, tho I know this pain is nothing like you have with the RSD

I really do hope they find a cure or at least a way to lessen the symptoms without just the painpills. I know those can be really hard on your whole system.
these Salonpas pads are really impressing me, as it isnt just a case of relieving the pain and stiffness but I can see how the swelling has subsided and walking is a lot easier now, even without a pad on the area.
when I overdo things (like when we were walking the neighborhood and woods out back searching for Shadow) then I just attach a pad or two for a couple of days and for a day or two, and feel the "ahhhhhhhh!"
I am also taking the supplements so I am sure they are working along with the local effect of the methyl salicylate in the pads.
Cheri