new member - CRaPS is crappy
 

I have been diagnosed with CRPS after I had carpal tunnel surgery this last August. CRaPS onset was immediate after the surgery, I came home from the surgery believing this was 'normal' recovery, but was unable to sit in an unmoving position without sobbing, this went on for nearly 6 weeks straight. Even with that, I was released to go back to work. After 3 of the most miserable days of my life, in the office, I walked out and went immediately to the dr where I received the CRaPS diagnosis.

This is all under workers comp, so on one side I am still on temp disability and able to pay the bills. I am the primary breadwinner, so that is a HUGE concern to me. On the other hand, I am beholden to the insurance company idiots (that is the VERY nice term I will use for them) who get to make the decisions on my medical care even though my dr's are begging for treatment on my behalf.

November 25, 2011, I had a stellate gangllion block. Aside from the mental fog, migraine and nausea, the pain subsided to a more manageable level. Not gone, just lessened. Because I was still in the 1-3 month window of CRaPS onset, this was great news. It is now 4 months later and though my dr's have been lobbying for me to receive at least 2 more blocks, the insurer (Liberty Mutual, may their souls reap what they sow) has denied any further blocks.

I have a lawyer, I am working on getting new dr's that can work around these blocks. I am exhausted. As a mom of 2 kids, I try to not let them see how much this hurts. I get up and take them to school. I try to keep things going. I am an emotional basket case and feel like I am going to break at the slightest event.

I am currently on Gabapentin, (which I hate, it makes me feel like a zombie and apathetic) nortriptyline (antidepressant for the pain, but methinks I am still depressed, but the cymbalta made me loonier then a june-bug, so this is better than nothing), a ketamine lotion (this has been a god send), a topical lidocaine and volcaren (a topical cream anti-inflammatory).

So, I am sorry to know that I am not the only one in this scenario, but it's nice to know there are others who 'get it'. I hope this day finds you well.

Hello Justmyluck!
 

Welcome to NT! :hug:

I like the 'a' you conveniently put in CRPS :p. Boy ain't that the truth! You'll be amazed at how many people suffer from this (including moi). The support here is wonderful and like you said, it's nice knowing that others here 'get it'.

I see you've found your way over to the RSD/CRPS forum. You'll get great feedback. Also regarding the workcomp! I know how frustrating this can be.

Make yourself right at home - You're among FRIENDS!

Caring,
Rae
:grouphug:

Nice to meet you!!
 

justmyluck,

:Wave-Hello:Hello and welcome, happy to see you have come to be with us, it a great place to be. As you can see we have a great number and caring fellow members here, welcome to a supportive and relaxing place. Have fun looking into the different forums. Our shoulders are here for support in many ways.

Again welcome, looking forward to seeing you around. My thoughts and prayers are with you. :smileypray:

Darlene :hug: