Do you use patch for the full 12 hours as on drug label, Mrs. D? I found the patch does seem to ease the pain even after I remove it for day. I wear it for about 8 hours a day.

Yes, 12hrs on and 12hrs off. (the off time is because too much lidocaine may get absorbed systemically and that may affect the heart).

Sometimes 1/2 patch is enough if you get the placement right.

I didn't expect a full remission. But it happened with daily use of the Lidoderms for 2 weeks!

Lidocaine is a sodium channel blocker, and this effectively stops the neurochemical transmission in the nerve from reaching the spinal cord.

I think it is possible that some minor damage to nerves just gets them stuck in the "on" position, and using an agent that turns them OFF, results in reversal in some cases. (like mine).