Tips you told us
from your experience of RSD/CRPS

A tip from my experience of RSD

I was diagnosed with RSD in my right leg in 2000 which resulted from a work injury in 1999. I have terrible burning pain & extreme sensitivity to touch, bumping & most clothing. It is worse in some areas of my leg than others, of course, as it's the nature of the beast known as RSD. I have found that using Lidoderm Patches, Lidocain 5%, helps with the burning and decreases some of the sensitivity. Although they are generally prescribed for pain associated with "shingles", they are very, very helpful with the burning pain. They are quite expensive, however, the company has a program for low income people and they will supply you with Lidoderm (Lidocain) patches if you qualify. I don't know what I would do without them! It's not uncommon for me to use 3 to 7 patches on various "hot spots" & areas of high sensitivity.

Sara - Craigsville, WV, USA

Also see the comments on the Lidocaine page in Drugs on RSD Alert.