My thought would to see your PCP and have him send you to an othopedic Dr. to see if you might have pinched nerves in your hands and arms. It could be something such as Carpal, cubital, radial, ulner or triggerfinger syndrome going on. I have all of these along with RSD and it's hard to tell them apart. I knew when I had rotator cuff problems besides the RSD. Since I hurt my middle finger last week, I have no doubt I have problems in the palm of my hand which most likely is the triggerfinger syndrome coming back alive. I had shots a year ago but with this injury, I have some of it going again.

Also, you could have arthritis setting into your back, hips and knees. I would have all of this checked out before I came to the conclusion of the RSD spread. It is possible but if you just treat the RSD then you aren't going to be able to calm down anything else. With the nerve impingments, I can tell you right now, the meds aren't going to do a damn thing for the pain from them either. I have delt with that all week from this finger I messed up.

it could be arthritis setting up in your fingers also. With injuries this happens.

I hope you start feeling better and get some answers soon.
Ada

Hi,

I have full body RSD and it spread full body over a 6 month period from when the RSD started.

I reckon it is worth making appointments with both the PCP and the PM doctors - as if you are crying from pain during the day and waking crying at night then it's definetly worth getting it sorted out!!!

I agree with Ada (and you!) that you shouldn't jump to the conclusion that it is RSD - it could be other auto immune issues, or an infection or all sorts of things.

When mine spread I would literally get aches for two or three days and then BAM! black leg, agony, couldn't stand anything or anyone near me or touching me, shaking, etc etc etc

Do you use crutches? Just if you do it could be nerve damage from using crutches. I know several people who have had similar symptoms and it's because of overusing crutches and the other leg.

Really hope that you get some relief soon and that it isn't RSD!!

Love and pain free hugs

Frogga xxxxxxx

Amber,

The first symptoms I had before the spreading to each new area was muscle spasms and cramping. Then the symptoms would spread to that area: color/ temp changes, PAIN, hair loss, nail changes, etc...

Also, I had the spreading to each new area a few weeks apart. So every few weeks the symptoms and PAIN would spread... ugh!!

It stinks having it full body... sounds like it could me going that route for you! I hope not though! It's so rough anyways, full body is just terrible, and agony. I am hoping that it's not going to go full body in you too...

You are in my thoughts and prayers!! I hope things start looking up soon!! ((hugs))

Hi Amber!
I had carpal tunnal surgery and got this demon RSD from it. Anyway, I did need the surgery as the band was so tight in my wrist (Ulner nerve) Amber, are your wrists swollen? My PCD refered me to the surgeon (Orthopedic) and he did this surgery Jan.9th. and I wish to goodness I never had the surgery, as this RSD has spread to my shoulder. Are your legs swollen? as for wringing out your hair in the shower I too know how much this hurts. The spine and wrist specialist said I have "Frozen shoulder?? hm... my pain Dr. said it's caused by the RSD spread. Also, I can't raise my right arm at all.. hurts so bad!! If I were you, I would go back to your PMD as he/she can tell you if it spread. wishing you the best Amber. hang on in there sweetie!! Love and Love, Desi

When you mentioned joint pains - It made me wonder about rheumatoid arthritis?? I would for sure get an appt to have this checked out.

Hi.

I have had CRPS in my left leg since 2003. I developed arthritis in my right knee in 2005. Recently my hands, fingers and wrists have become very painful and during my doctor visit a couple of weeks ago he confirmed my suspicion that arthritis has likely attacked these joints now. Arthritis causes a lot of pain and swelling. I am considered young to have this disease and it is not part of my family's medical history. I have an xray appointment coming up. I don't know if there is a connection between these two illnesses, but there is no doubt that I am afflicted by arthritis. I too suffer from low back and hip pain.

I also have difficulty with raising my arms above my head. Showering is really hard and sometimes I have to wait for my hubby to help me because I just can't do it myself. I hate this. I was dx with myofascial pain syndrome (by the pain specialist) last year. Resting my arms and massage are the only things that have helped resolve some of the pain and mobility problems.

Take care,
Miss Irie