Hi everyone.
Well, I had my neck block and it wore off(the pain) in 5 hrs)!! I go for 2 more on May 8th. and May 15th. I thought this block would last longer!!! how long does it take?? will the 2nd and last block help?? thanks! Desi p.s. I am so hoarse and I have bruising and pain from the injection site!! :0(

Hi Desi--Well, everyone responds a little differently to the blocks, but don't get discouraged!

In my case, I found the first block wore off pretty rapidly as well. The second block lasted longer, and the third block even LONGER. It was as if each block "boosted" the effects of subsequent blocks.

It was explained to me that the pain that came back (which really felt worse than it did originally) , was "re-bound pain". I found that I did not experience this phenomena as badly with the subseqquent blocks.

It is really very fortunate that you have a Doc who is ON TOP of things, Desi, particularly getting you scheduled so promptly for the series of three blocks.

I am curious--did your Doc discuss with you having Physical Therapy in conjuntion with your nerve blocks?

The reason I ask is that my Doc has always told me how very important it is do do my exercises after the blocks, and to take advantage of the pain reduction from the blocks. I have found that doing my exercises has really helped keep the swelling and stiffness down. However, my case might be diffferent from yours.

Oh-- re the hoarsness, etc--I found that this resolves totally within about 12 hours, and the neck pain from the injection should feel MUCH better by tomorrow. I use ice on my neck, which helps (no RSD THERE, thank goodness!)

In either event, I hope that the next nerve blocks really help get that RSD under control for you, Desi!!

Most Sincerely,

Brokenwings

Thanks for the "fast reply" broken wings!! yes, I had PT before the nerve blocks.. and I hurt so much after, that my surgeon that did the carpal tunnal said no more!! I had 6 of them. you guys really give me hope, and for that I thank you!! Love, Desi

Hi Desi,
RSD in my hands is the secondary areas for me. It first hit my feet. I am almost done with rounds of SGB's, a series of 6 on each side that was started in Jan. We had to reschedule a few times. I have 2 more to go on the left side. I have only had the aching neck I think twice during all that I have had this year so far. And I have only had a drooping eye-lid maybe 3 times total this year also. Have had the hoarseness when talkiing alot from them.

I had to go thru this series last year also. These SGB's seem to help keep the symptoms in check for me for quite a long time. I am going to try doing LSB's for my feet next. Seems like my whole year gets messed up with either SGB's or LSB's. Last year I ended up with major back repair surgery so no LSB's that year.

You hang in there ok??? Hoping they all work together to make it less painful for you.

DebbyV

Hi Debby!
Thanks for writing back!! girl, you have been through a lot!! gosh! I went to my Dr.(pain Dr. that did the block) this evening and he ordered me Gabapentin 100 mg. He wants me to take this at bedtime(2 pills)??? 2 weeks ago I was on Lyrica and OMG That did not agree with me at all!! I hope this pill is nothing like that!! I also have vicodin es and percocetts that make me sick, so, I don't take these unless absoutly necessary! Desi

Hey

Sorry it didn't work for longer!! I have had a couple of SGB's... but didn't make much difference for me - but hey.. Lots of people on here have found them useful though!

Just wanted to say I'm thinking of you and I hope the next lot help more!

Love

Froggsy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hey,Brokenwings,

I just joined yesterday. I'm (Broken Wings). I've been clicking around and it reads like we may have a lot in common. Not too familiar how to get around on this site, but learning. I've been suffering with TOC with scalene inovlvement and herniations and bulges in my neck and other issues since October 2000. my ganglion blocks were not too effective. I actually had an adverse outcome. Thank God it did wear off quickly for me. My cervical epidurals X3 were effective, though. It's a fickle thing what works and what don't.

Later,
(Broken Wings)

Hello Broken Wings! This is the "other Brokenwings"-- And to all, Ihave not been on the Forum lately due to RSD flares, FIRE ecavuation, which evidently is "nopt a good thing" with RSD...

Broken Wings, I do not think I have TOS or cervical problems like you have (knock on wood), but PAIN is just PAIN, and when it is NERVE pain, it is just awful!! I would much rather have a broken LEG!!! (ehich I HAVE had, and THAT was a "piece of cake" conpared to this RSD....

In ither event, WELCOME to the Forums! You will find that this site has so many, wonderful, sharing posters who will be very supportive! It is a TRUE blessing to be in the company of others who ALL share and UNDERSTAND what we live with on a day-today-basis.

I'll try and post mpre frequently, but gotta watch not to "over-do it", if you kmow what I mean. i HOP{E to get a Dragon program within the next couple of months, whic should make the posting/typing process a whole lot easier and reduce the flare-ups.

In His Hands--THnaks so very much for your p.m....I sent you a reply.

Frogga--WOW! a COTTAGE AND a GARDEN!!! Now, THAT jsut ROCKS!!!

I truly hope everyone else is doing WELL! SUMMER--YAY!!!! Surely is SO much better than dreary, COLD winter!!

Most Sincerely,

The Other Brokenwings