Lefty, I can't answer your questions about "Mild CRPS," but here's some info on the prescription cream that may have been prescribed for you. My PM doctor prescribed Lidocaine patches - brand name is Lidoderm 5% - and also a cream. Both are topical NSAIDS, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like Advil. They've been used in Canada for a few yrs, but were just recently approved in the US. The advantage is that the medication goes directly to the inflamed areas, bypassing both the stomach & liver.

I've found the patches to be very helpful with pain relief, but like Advil or Tylenol, they haven't corrected the problem, they just offer respite. My PM doc suggested that with daily use the inflammation might permanently disappear. I won't hold my breath, but wouldn't that be nice?

As for the cream, I was to alternate it with the patches. It's called Voltaren Gel (diclofenac sodium topical gel 1%). I've ended up not using it for a few reasons.This cream is especially helpful for folks with arthritis.

Good luck to both of us!

Bari