Hi, everyone.

I have RSD of the left leg since 2003. Even though I was dx early, the LSB's and edpidurals did not work for me. I walk with a cane but have managed fairly well until early this year.

Back in February I hurt my left shoulder and it seemed to never heal. Then in early Summer my right leg became swollen and horribly painful — I could not walk at all some days. My doctor ordered a bone scan which showed hot spots in both my ankles, both knees, both hips, low back and both shoulders. An MRI showed that I have developed arthritis in my right knee. My doctor kept adjusting my medications to try and deal with my increasing pain levels.

Well, 2 months ago I injured my right shoulder when I lost my balance and over-extended my arm when reaching out to stop my fall. Now both shoulders are so painful that I sometimes can't lift my arms over my head. I am in unbearable pain all over and quickly reaching the end of my rope! I was worried that the RSD was spreading.

Well... I just met with my pain specialist, who is a well-known and respected Canadian doctor who speaks regularly about RSD. He has not, in his long practice, seen a patient with all the necessary symptoms to support a diagnosis of RSD "spreading" — i.e. swelling, discoloration, etc. Rather than a "spread" occuring, he finds that many patients develop other muscle or joint conditions that when added to their RSD diagnosis often lead to more pain and disability.

We reviewed my records: I have osteoporosis and RSD in my left leg, arthritis in my right knee, and my abnormal gait has affected my spine which contributes to the hip and low back pain. He increased the Codein Contin to 300 mg, Duragesic to 150 mcg/h, and added Nortriptyline at 100 mg. No change to Effexor at 150mg, Arthrotec at 75 mg, Tylenol 4 for BT, and I am to continue taking Glucosamine, Calcium and Vitamin D.

NOW MY QUESTION....

Additionally, he diagnosed me with a condition known as muscle-fascial pain syndrome in both shoulders. He has referred me back to my family doctor to discuss a treatment plan but I don't have an appointment until mid January. I've done some initial web research but would very much like to hear from someone who also has this pain syndrome(?)

Cheers,
Catherine