I am also have been dx with RSD/CRPS, it is hard to wrap your head around. I have done a lot of internet searches and have a good feel for what is going on, and am finding it hard to come to terms with this awful condition. I am also on WC and this is a complication of an injury that occurred while I was in a work hardening program for my WC injury. My WC injury was to my hand, but while participating in WH I was told to do squats and leg presses, I have pretty advanced OA in my knee and told the PT of this, but he insisted I would be alright. My knee gave out and popped and I almost fell over from the pain the PT caught me. I was then dx with a medial tibial plateau stress fracture, which within a month brought on the dx of CRPS. It has now been 4 months and I have been non-weight bearing for 5 months. I am going for my first lumbar block in two days in hopes to reduce the pain and swelling that will not subside.

It is hard to have to deal with the pain, but on top of that to have to deal with WC. They are fighting me on covering the knee injury, have a deposition in two weeks, and I am also collecting long term disability from my job, and they are now requiring me to be considered for SSDI. My life has been turned upside down in the past 8 months and I have learned, from what I have read and my own experience so far, results are individual, what is right for one may not be right for you, but you have to try. Eight months ago I would have never imagined letting someone stick a large needle into my spine, but now, even though I am extremely nervous about it, I almost can't wait to see if it finally gives me some relief and gets me on the road to recovery.

Sorry for being so long winded, but my suggestion would be to do your research, read up as much as you can, there are many very good sites out there regarding RSD/CRPS and the treatments that go along with it.

Don't be afraid to question your treating doctors if they are familiar with the dx and don't be made to feel as if you are lying or just looking for drugs. If you haven't yet, you may or probably will come into contact with doctors who are ignorant to what RSD/CRPS is. There are many great doctors out there who do know and understand how to treat this. The best doctors are the ones who admit they are not familiar and yet treat you with dignity. Personally, I think I have educated my orthopedic surgeon on the dx and I do believe he appreciates the insight and has helped me connect with doctors who are able to help. Good luck in your recovery and keep your head up!