Hi again,

Glad to hear you got in to see a neuro right away. I'm guessing that the tests you have scheduled probably include a nerve conduction study(?). With a venipuncture injury, there's a good chance they can conclusively document the site of nerve damage using this method, such as the exact branch of the nerve that was injured. I'm hoping that you just have a damaged nerve and not Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). By the way, CRPS Type I is the new name for RSD. Type II is when the CRPS results from a known nerve injury. If you have CRPS, and they can document the specific nerve injury using nerve conduction study or other methods, then you would have CRPS Type II (like myself).

Gabapentin works very well for many (including myself), and not well for others. Be aware that it and other anticonvulsant medications can cause some pretty hefty side effects, especially at higher doses, but not everyone experiences these. Also beware that neurologists often tend to understate the severity of these side effects. Weight gain, general fatigue, and "brain fog" are common.

As Dana mentioned, stay the heck away from ice, and try to stay warm in general. Many CRPS patients, including myself, experience extreme cold sensitivity on the skin of the affected area. Being cold in general can cause symptoms to flare up.

The tendency with painful nerve injuries is to protect the limb and not use it. However, if you can, use your hand as much as possible. Do simple range of motion exercises with your hand and fingers. Try to keep your hand & arm muscles strong and your fingers and wrist flexible, but also don't overdo it.

Good luck, and let us know how you are doing!

Annie