by K Scappace

Created on: April 19, 2009

RSD/CRPS Another Letter

There is an excellent letter at RSDHope.com that discusses the issues of pain and pain management for people with RSD and other Chronic Pain disorders. This is my letter.

I thought it would be interesting to learn how to ice skate at the age of 47. Although I did not learn how to skate, it was definitely interesting. One fall was all it took to break my ankle. The break required surgery and the placement of a plate and screws in my leg. I thought everything would be fine but it wasn't. I continued to have problems with pain, swelling, and mobility for the next three years when my doctor determined that he needed to remove the plate and screws.

I wish I did the research then that I have done since. Considering the amount of pain in my ankle prior to the second surgery, the procedure was a calculated risk at best. I wish I took the time to sit down with my doctor before the second surgery and discuss the type and severity of the pain I already suffered. I wish I did not put my doctor in the position of guessing the right course.

My doctor followed the appropriate surgical and post surgical protocols. The problem I suffer today began with the air cast that is the prescribed immobilizer for ankle surgery. I complained that it hurt to wear it. The cast pressed against the incision and made my ankle and foot swell is what I reported. My doctor prescribed Ace Bandages' as the next protocol. It felt better but I still suffered a great deal of swelling and I started experiencing a terrible burning in my ankle and sharp pains in my shin.

I feared gangrene. My ankle was red but cool to the touch. It did not matter if I put weight on it or not, it always hurt. In fact, it felt like I had a second-degree burn inside my ankle. Finally, I called my doctor and he ordered me into his office right away.

His first fear was the same as mine and he started an infection protocol. He did not prescribe painkillers at this time and I do not blame him for that. He felt that an increase or decrease in pain would alert me to changes in my ankle faster than a visual inspection. Within a week, we knew it was not infection.

That day I first heard the phrase RSD or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. I thought sympathy pains'? What? I don't have enough problems with my own pain I have to borrow someone else's?

My doctor explained that RSD or CRPS is a neurological disorder. He recommended a painkiller and physical therapy. Let me assure you, the painkiller was such a relief I almost

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