I posted this one th main forum, but I believe this is where I need to be...

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.

I'm very sorry to hear all that you have been through. My CRPS developed from a work related injury so I feel you pain so to speak on that area specifically. If the blocks have been successful and your docs recommend more...definitely get your lawyer on that and advocating for your rights. Delays in treatment can cause you such pain and suffering...your attorney should be able to request an immediate hearing to get a judge to make a decision about approval of the blocks. Just keep advocating for your rights and make sure to take care of your health (because as you are by now aware...work comp will not act in your best interest in this situation).

Welcome to NeuroTalk and if you have any questions or even if you just need to vent...we are here for you. Take care.