First, you can't cut away pain. For anyone who actually thinks this is the solution, all they're asking for are more problems and the impossible dream since no insurance company or self respecting doctor who understands RSD will actually remove a limb unless there's some physical reason such as life threatening infections or blood clots that are out to kill the patient. This was used as an option around a decade ago, but it was a bad idea then and we've learned this solution simply doesn't work. Now as far as getting it paid for, unless you've got the cash laying around, no insurance company will pay for it unless your limb is literally killing you.

Phantom pain actually feels quite different than RSD. After living with both for over 2 years I'm actually surprised in how much difference there is. There's no doubt about both hurting, but the tone of the pain is actually different. I'll feel like I'm wearing a pair of shoes 3 sizes too small that's rubbing a hole through my skin. Problem is, I had my leg cut high above the left knee so there's nothing there. RSD pain is very different in nature and much of it is based off of whatever got the RSD started in the first place as the RSD itself. For example if you're dealing with damaged nerve paths and/or circulation problems, this can cause those hot knives and stabbing sensations. A super deep bruising type throb is also common. While these sensations can be felt with phantom pain, it's still different and in time you'll notice it will change/alter over time.

Amputation is all about saving a persons life plain and simple. Only till you've had a limb(s) cut off will you understand just how awful an experience this is. Since there is for example nerve damage plus RSD involved with my amputated leg any kind of prosthesis isn't even an option since I can't even stand the pressure of a sock so how could I ever cope with a device that's clamped on tight so I can walk once again?

After living with my radical pedicure for over 2 years, I can only say, it's hard, it's not fun and it will change your life forever. RSD/CRPS does too, but you don't want to add more to the problem unless you're finally forced into it.

One ironic thing that's occurred only since the amputation are these shocks that range from supporting a coffee pot all the way to supporting a 2 ton air conditioner. These things really hurt. They can last in duration from 15 seconds to 2 minutes. They can have durations as short as a 3 minute set all the way up to hours long. I never had these shocks before the amputation and I'm telling you these things are plain awful. Embarrassing as all get out since you can't stop yourself from acting like a flopping fish you just caught, I hate it when I'm out in public and I start getting zapped.

Take each day as it comes and just keep a smile on your face when the pain is a bit easier to cope with. I'm not saying it's easy, but I am saying we can survive it. The best coping mechanism always comes from within and with a little help from the pharmacy department and caring doctors. I'm just thankful I've got all the above.

Best of luck, Bob.