[lindkaye]

Hey there; Sorry to vent, but knew some of you might know how I am feeling right now and guess I need your acknowledgement and advice.
Background: RSD in right knee after knee replacement 2 years ago. I have lost my flex and extension to the point I need a cane, cannot drive, work,go down stairs normally, etc. I had knee opened up last year and scar tissue taken out - doc said everything else looked good - had to be the RSD. Had 5 lumbar blocks that worked for only about 6 hours each. I have now also been diag with MS and AS (Anylosing Spondylitis). Yes, my body is at war against itself! The main problem right now is the last 4 months I have been falling down so much more. Neurologist took MRI - no new MS lesions so no meds for now - doesnt think its the MS making me fall. I also have a terrible pain in the back of my knee (RSD has always been on the front side of the knee). This pain is different than the RSD - its not the burning and I feel popping as if my muscles were sliding over something. I cannot move my leg when it happens as there is so much pain. I used to be able to go up the stairs, but not cannot stand the weight on this leg. Anyway - I am getting the merry go round of drs - each dr is stating I should see the "other" specialist. I have been waiting to see a new ortho rehab dr for couple of months and saw her today. She had my records and asked me what was my main complaint. So I told her. Her first response was "did I need my cymbalta for depression increased?" ARRGGH. I cannot explain how I felt. Almost started to cry but then did deep breathing -my new best friend! I kindly told her no, I didn't need more cymbalta ( I know it helps pain also) - just needed help in trying to figure out where this new pain was coming from and why the popping feeling and the falling down. She then went on to tell me it was probably the RSD. No physical exam at this point yet, just gave me the impression that since I have RSD, everything I feel must be it! Then she asked me what I wanted her to do..... A couple of things came to mind but had nothing to do with medicine - lol!! Has anyone experienced this? I know RSD can spread, etc., but this feels so much different and feels as if the ligaments or muscles are not right. I also explained about the falling down occurring so much more. She didn't even seem to want to discuss this. Just kept bringing up the RSD and how it makes my leg difficult (ya think?). Finally she did say it might be a cyst on the back of my leg. So I asked her if it was, what can I do and she stated nothing as if they drain it, it will come back. It would probably resolve on its own - if this is what it was. By this point I was so ready to leave. I waited for a long time for this appt for nothing. I don't know where to turn at this point as my Ortho Surgeon will not see me as he stated there is nothing more he can do because of the RSD. I have only been trying to do some PT at home as my husbands insurance will only cover $1,500.00 a year for any PT (which is about 5 visits per year) But if you are treated as inpatient PT - they will cover $25,000.00. !! Has anyone else been "labeled" with RSD as to drs don't want to explore any other options than your RSD that could be wrong with you? I know RSD is a very frustrating disease for both patient and dr but at this point tonite - guess I need more cymbalta ! Thanks again for listening.