My RSD/CRPS Story

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Falling on the ice as I was leaving work on Feb. 5, 2004, was to change my life forever. My right rotator cuff was torn, I had surgery and the final outcome after weeks of therapy and agonizing pain was Causalgia, RSD/CRPS in my shoulder and right arm. It was 8 months later and I sat with a Pain The most important thing that he told me that day was even if it hurts move your arm 50 times a day, if you don't use it you'll lose it. Best advice. I see two PM doctors and from 2008 until last year (2014) was seeing a psychiatrist and counselor that was also for Pain Management. My meds are Exalgo ER, Dilaudid (breakthrough pain), Topamax, Clonidine, Voltaren Gel and I use a Tens unit about 6-9 hours a day. I received training from counseling in meditation and also use reading to keep my mind off my pain, I can get lost in a book, which is extremely beneficial. About 9 months ago I began having pain, burning and swelling in my legs that seemed very similar to my arm I was tested for Neuropathy which came back negative. I believe it is RSD since it has all the same symptoms I have not been able to get the diagnosis so I may need to change doctors. I am on Social Secuity Disability since 2012 but would get much more money on Workers Compensation Disability, so I am in the process of filing for that now. It is very unfair and difficult to deal with the State Workers Compensation Office.