Hi, can anyone give me information on getting injections in RSD affected limbs. I now have RSD in my left wrist, right shoulder,and left ankle. Getting anything done on my left arm is not going to happen because it affects my whole arm, from my closed hand right up to the upper part of my arm, however on my right shoulder, it is more centralized from the base of my neck down past my shoulder a bit. Does anyone know if having needles on that arm would be ok or not. I must have blood work done and I am not sure if it would be a risk. I have heard it is ok ---to----- don't do it , NO needles in any limb that is affected. (I now have RSD 5-1/2 years, but it only was diagnosed as full body last Dec. and until now I didn't have this problem come up where I may need blood work or injections other then the nerve blocks.) If anyone can help me decide if I should do this I would appreciate any advice.
Thanks in advance!
Terri

I totally understand your concerns!
I have just been going through some blood test, too and I am not finished yet! I have full body RSD, 20 years in July. My RSD started in my right arm, and even though I have full body RSD, I always use my left arm. I also ask for a butterfly, I tell them I have RSD and what an injection can do to me and if they are not sure of themselves or very experienced, please get someone else to take the blood. If I take the time to explain a bit about the terrible possible concequences, they are always cooperative with me. Slow them down... and explain that this could be devasting to you. I have been very fortunate, so far. "Knock on wood" Lots of Love Diana

Many people on this forum have also mentioned asking that a pediatric syringe be used as it is smaller and less invasive. I agree with Di that the most experienced technician be requested. I understand your concern.....I am scared every time I need an injection or an IV (currently for my sympathetic nerve blocks). Best wishes!!

Hi...

I ALWAYS ask for a topical numbing cream to be used in the area where the injection or blood draw will be located.

I also ask for pediatric and/or butterfly needles.


Best wishes...

Abbie

Please do NOT directly into a limb that has RSD!!! I had a nerve block injected directly into my leg that has RSD And it made me solo much worse and I was wheelchair bound for over a year!! Unfortunately, my PM Doctor didn't know at that time that you shouldn't inject directly into a limb affected by RSD at that time and it was only after I had the nerve block that my mum found an article on the internet stating that you should never inject into an RSD limb unless it is absolutely neccasary. I don't want to scare you but wanted to let you know about my experience and what my doctor said before you make any decisions. All the best and if you have any questions, please let me know.

Thank you for the replies... unfortunately I live in a very small area where not one person ever heard of RSD and all I do is explain and they still don't get it. My daughter is a nurse and I know she knows what I tell her the complications could be but inside I still know she doesn't fully understand, not to mention I have very tiny veins and it has always been a nightmare for sticks years ago. I have never had less then 4 trys until they succeed and they were supposed to be the specialists. I don't know if I should do this or not since all limbs are involved and I don't think I could take any more complications. Life is already hard enough at this point. In order to have someone who knows anything about RSD I would have to travel the 2 1/2 hrs to Phila. just to get the blood work or Baltimore. I am going to think a couple more days before I decide, but thank you all so much for the very helpful info.
Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy Painfree New Year!

Terri, I am so sorry that you even have to consider this situation! I live in a small town, too and they have NO idea what I am talking about when I explain RSD. I also suggest they look it up as it may come up for them again. I have small veins as well. Still ask for a butterfly. If the test are necessary to your health, you may have to weigh the odds. I do understand, I am currently in your position. I had blood drawn at one hospital and the results were abnormal. The doc made me to another hospital to make sure the results were correct. They still came up abnormal so I had to go back to the first hospital for another blood test. Again, (very disheartening at this point) they were abnormal the third time. She is going to give me a two week repreve and then I have to go back again for blood and other tests. Sometimes, it can be vital to have the blood tests. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. There is no simple answer. Again, you probably will have to weigh the odds and make the best decision for you. I wish you the best. Love Di