[tsquaw]

Hello. I am a new member. I have been reading posts on this site as a guest for the last few months. so glad I found this site! The info is great. I have been batteling what I think is TOS for two years now. it has gotten to the point that I can't work. I haven't been able to work since August. I have been to the mayo clinic but two doctors think its causalgia resulting from a brachial plexus injury and one believes it is TOS. I have been thru physical therapy,steroid shots, taken nerotonin ,lyrica,cymbalta. nothing seems to work. I have made an appt with Dr bandyk in Tampa. was wondering if anyone has heard of him. just want a dx so I can do the proper treatment and get on with my life! I love my job as a rural mail carrier and don't want to give it up. thank you for any info.

[Jomar]

Have you listed your symptoms and compared to both TOS and RSD/CRPS (aka causalgia)?

I think listing them out might help the drs also.

[tsquaw]

Actually I was just diagnosed so haven't had the opportunity to do that. good idea though. from what I've read causalgia's main symptom is swelling and or redness of the skin. I have never had swelling. I really believe it is TOS. when I was first told about TOS I did some research on it and just started crying! My symptoms are textbook! I was so relieved that I finally understood what was going on with me. however now I'm at an impasse...waiting for some kind of treatment from the docs. none of them have given me any indication as to what to do next. have a pain management appt. but its not until Dec 13. Really feel like I would be better off without my arms right now!! I apologize for the whining, just overwhelmed from the pain

[Jomar]

Usually with RSD there is extreme sensitivity to touch, fabrics, or even breezes can be painful. Skin can change colors/textures to blotchy, red, blue , purples.

Also list out any accidents, broken bones or falls that you might have had in your whole life.
It's not fun when our fool hardy activities of youth start to catch up to us.
MDs may not give it much consideration, but very good PT, bodyworker or chiro will see a connection.
But the connection may only point to a start, finding the right treatment providers is the answer.

I was in 3 minor car accidents, 4 minor horse accidents, plenty of rough & tumble play /sports as a kid.. then a repetitive manufacturing job w/10 hr days.
= RSI / TOS


When you get a list made post it and we might have some self help or PT tips for you.

What is your pain level on avg?
Is that with no meds at all?
Any OTC - Advil or Aleve?

[mspennyloafer]

my pt thought i had rsd but i swear to god i did not

i really think i just have post-injury neuropathy (not necessarily rsd!!) and tos