[Annie Poo]

I've been reading the Brain Talk 1 postings for RSD, but had problems registering. So this is the first time I've ever posted anything like this. It's useful to read about the experience of others, and I wish you all well.

I have CRPS type II from a venipuncture injury to the sensory branch of my radial nerve, which occurred a year and a half ago. It's spread up my arm and to my right trunk, neck, and right half of my face and head.

My symptoms are predominantly burning and aching, although I have pins & needles, occasional shooting pains, skin sensitivity, especially to cold, muscle contractions in my right hand and excessive sweating in my right armpit. Severity really varies, although my symptoms are definitely worse in cold weather, so I'm dreading winter. I was on gabapentin (1200 mg/day) last summer, which worked well for the symptoms but shut down my brain. I'm currently on 800 mg/day tegretol, which helps somewhat with symptoms, but has really slowed down my metabolism. I'm considering going back on gabapentin because I'm nervous about long-term complications of being on tegretol (liver issues, osteoporosis, etc.).

My neurologist is optimistic that this will heal, but I figure this may be a long term problem because it's worse than last year. I know that overall, the prognosis for venipuncture CRPS type II is not good. OT is keeping my hand functional, and I've worked with a psychologist to learn biofeedback techniques to reduce how this affects my mood (irritability with my kids, etc.). I've had good luck using ThermaCare wraps on my forearm in the winter.

After reading about the experience of others with RSD, I consider myself extremely fortunate that mine is not a severe case, (although that doesn't mean I'm not ****** off about the initial injury). I'm also fortunate that I have very good insurance, and am able to work, although I'm right handed. This has certainly been a learning experience.

By the way, I'm a scientist (not in neurology), and can access scientific publications through Medline and PubMed. I think I've downloaded most RSD/CRPS journal articles published in the last 10 years, and have a pile about 8 inches deep on my desk. Let me know if you've heard about a certain paper and haven't been able to access it. I may be able to help.

Take care.