NeuroTalk Support Groups - Returning Member

Hi,

Several years ago, I was a member. However, I got better for awhile!!!

At the time, I had ongoing radiculopathy. DDD. I would post on the spinal pain boards. I found it very helpful.

Now, I'm facing a different problem. I have a neuropathy in my feet. From what I've read, it is called "Eryrthomelgia".

It is kind of like RSD, but the pain isn't as severe. My pain occurs at night. It is in my toes. They turn bright red and they burn. I take medications, so I get a good night's sleep. The next day, I wake up and they feel OK. Then, if I wear shoes during the day, it burning starts in the afternoon. If I don't wear shoes, the burning won't start until night.

I also have had an ongoing allodynia for years. I've had a lot of problem wearing socks. However, I just put up with it. I just wore thick cotton mens socks, with the seam turned out. The seam on socks have caused awful pain for years. I also have to wear 8EE shoes, even though my foot measures 6.

I also have an old diagnosis of fibromyalgia. I have peripheral neuropathy, treated morton's neuroma in my feet.

I have the skin changes that go with RSD: Sweating, nail changes, skin changes. I believe I probably have osteoporosis in my feet. (I was recently diagnosed with osteopenia.)

The problem started when I went into menopause, last fall.

I don't know where to turn. I don't know any doctor who treats "erythromelgia". However, I'm thinking that I can go to my neurologist and pain specialist who do treat RSD and peripheral neuropathy.

I have been told I don't have CRSP, because doctors can touch my feet.

However, a controlled touch doesn't allicit alloynia in me.

I get alloynia from socks, shoes, carpet etc. Sometimes it occurs quickly, but sometimes the allodynia occurs after a few minutes, sometimes even longer.

My physical therapist tried desensitization, but I don't go to her anymore. (Reason has to do with varied other reasons..,they just couldn't seem to get their act together.)

Anyway, when I was going through desensization, I wasn't told: Am I supposed to allow the brain to feel the painful stimuli , or am I supposed to try to mentally block it. For instance, I can put on a pair of socks, and allow the pain to go to my brain, or I can put on a pair of socks and try to ignore the pain. (I'm just doing this as a therapy treatment, versus, trying to wear socks and walk around. I just put them on for a few minutes while I'm sitting on my couch.)

Thank you,