the physiatrist I was seeing at the local large university has been promoted and is no longer seeing patients. They refered me to another physiatrist, who can't help me at all, but at least she said so.... not even close to what she works with (spinal injuries)... anyway, while she looks for another doctor that does deal with RSD for me, she recommended I see a pain management psychologist. To learn how to "cope with chronic pain" and biofeedback etc.

I am not sure this will do anything but get co-payments from me. I don't feel depressed. I do some meditation to control pain now.. it has helped me as much as any pain med, as the meds don't work. But, this doctor felt sure I could benefit from seeing this psychologist. SHe said sometimes it "just helps to have someone to talk to about it" - but I really have not felt the need to go to a stranger and talk about this. When I need to talk I come here, to this board, where people really understand.

As RSD goes, I function fairly well... I still hurt a LOT, but I do still work, and I manage without regular pain meds (mainly because I have not found anything that works anyway) . I take topamax, namenda and norvasc to control the RSD symptoms. Sometimes aleve. Sometimes tramadol, sometimes a couple vicoden... like once or twice a month.

Anyone see one of these doctors? See any reason for me to do this? I have never been one to talk things out, or seek counceling. But, I am also open to anything that will help me. Just not sure what they do, or what to expect.
THanks
Jules