I have to research the tDCS . There was an article in the local paper about using the device for depression not for pain. Being on the computer for 20 minutes makes my hand turn blue and get ice cold so my time is very limited on the computer for research. When I go back for my next SGB and to the OSS I will also ask both of them about the device.

I have nerve blocks for my feet/ankles/legs. Since Sept/2010 I've had 5 or 6. Mine didn't start for 10 months after my injury, so the series thing wasn't an option, but I do get one about every two months in winter and in summer they last longer. But even though they reduce my pain levels, I'm still not able to function like I did before my accident.

And nope, you can't get two areas at one time. Disappointing I know. You must wait at least 2 weeks between injections, as least that is what I understand. If your feet are really bothering you, do you do epsom soaks. Those totally help me, and actually they provide the most relief I get, at least as long as my feet are in the water. 1/2 cup epsom salts in a dishpan of warm water, heaven!

Thanks for your reply. I have not done an Epsom salt bath for my feet. I am willing to try. I had my second SGB. I am amazed that the hand goes back to a normal temp and color within 30 minutes. Everyone in the office came to feel and see the difference. Both of my feet and hands seem to be affected. This will be a very long process. Hope the results are long lasting.

hey frenchfri! my rsd started in my right foot and spread up to my knee. i tried lumbar blocks & they did not seem to help me. i felt maybe a couple days of some relief but definately not worth going through the procedure again.

however, a little while ago, my rsd spread to both my hands, wrists and fore arms. i just finished a series of stellate ganglion blocks on my right side and i do feel moderate relief from all symtoms. i still have bad days & still get the symptoms from before but not nearly as often or severe. my pain dr. performs 3 blocks 2 weeks apart for each arm. the day after each block i also go to pt so they can help the medicine work it's way down into the arm/nerves. i'm going to start the left side on may 29th and will be done at the end of april. since this is my first experience with these blocks and so far i am very pleased with the results and i am praying i have the same good results on the left side.

if you have read any posts in here, you know that all treatments have different results for different people even if they have the same diagnosis and symtoms. i really hope they are beneficial for you and provide some much needed relief!! you'll be in my thoughts & prayers!

Usually the blocks are spaced depending on your length of relief. After having a block. Having a few days relief does help with a RSD diagnosis, but won't be enough to put you into remission... All blocks are not created equal though! Ask your docs what he's using in your block cocktail. Research what is considered most effective online. Also, was this done while you were awake and helping him pinpoint the optimal area? If he did it blind--these are not as effective--but probably most common.

I've had several. The blind don't last nearly as long. The meds make a big difference. I had up to 3 weeks of significant relief, and as little as a day...

Thanks for your replies. They were completed with conscious sedation. I do vaguely remember talking to the doctor. Not sure about what. Due to my schedule I was going every other week for the first 3. If they want to do more blocks I will be off of work for the following 2 weeks so that they can be done right after each other. What was in the block cocktail that you had. I did ask about different meds in the block and something that can be added to make it last longer. I tend to have many questions. He feels he is the expert and knows best. I'm sure he is very knowledgeable and knows what he is doing, but. . . .

Hope everyone had a less painful or uncomfortable day.

Not a good sign that your doc did not fully answer your questions. He may be an expert and he may know best. He also may be fond of the hammer and nail patient relationship. He is the hammer and your are the nail. He only knows one way. Or he may just be arrogant.

The trouble is you really have no way of making an assessment given his response to your being a savy consumer.

When it comes to CRPS many times a doctor's failure to answer questions is a red flag.

Hi,
I have a question on Sympathetic blocks. Since these injections I de-activate the sympathetic nervous system, isn't it bad for you? I mean, the sympathetic system in the body must be there for some good reason and if it is deavtivated, means it won't do the stuff it was doing earlier. Does anyone know?

I see a lot of you had some or a lot of success with nerve blocks. I am going for my first one on Thursday.

I just started therapy again last week so Im hoping between the block and therapy I will start to see some results. Only thing is my therapist seems to think it is just a knee injury not discovered and untreated for over a year now, I have four doctors right now all agreeing to the RSD. She does work with RSD a lot and has had success for remission. I dont agree so much with her, but I do trust her and one could only hope shes right after being diagnosed with this. Now sorry for rambling.

I was just wondering what I can expect to feel like after the block, it is for my right hip to my foot. I see the results everyone talks about, but I mean can I walk after, will there be any pain at the injection site? Any information what to expect would be nice. My parents are going out of town for the weekend and leave the day I get it done (bad timing, I know) I have a friend staying with me the first night, will I be ok on my own for a few days after that?

Hi there!!
Sorry about the problems you are having. If your PT doesn't agree with your diagnosis, you might want to think about going to someone else. I know you said you trust her, but you certainly do not want more damage done.

I have had many types of blocks, some successful and some not. Of course it will hurt getting the block because the needles don't feel great and the medication burns some going in. If you are sedated then you will not feel as much. The injection site will be sore, but not for long. You should be able to walk afterwards, but maybe a little unsteady. I always went to work the next day. Having someone with you the first night of getting your first block is a great idea!

This is all just my opinion based on my experiences.

Wishing you the best of luck, hope it helps you!!
Nanc