NY, any difference in CRPS/neuropathy?

[sonny1]

Hello, I am as usual...confused! My surgeon had been thinking I have some kind of peripheral neuropathy, but then, CRPS was mentioned and mentioned again in his notes. I tried looking it all up and was overwhelmed. Is there much difference? Does it make any difference in the end? I am waiting for an appointment to a pain clinic as my surgeon feels they can do nothing more "surgically" for me. (which..I have made clear...NO MORE..surgeries) The weather here in NY has been making drastic changes (from cold to temp's in the 50's) and back and forth with rain..My burning pain is literally now 24/7..I am getting more and more scared..any advice? than you!

[UndercovrAngel]

Sonny,

there is a big difference between peripheral neuropathy and CRPS/RSD. I suffer from both.

The neuropathy I have in my left arm and hand due to being a diabetic. Some pain, but mostly tingling and numbness in the last two fingers of my hand with some ocassionally in my wrist.

CRPS/RSD (cronic regional pain syndrome/ feflex sympathetic dystrophy) is in both of my lower extremities, from toes to hips. It includes burning pain, swelling, temperature ranges from ice cold to burning hot with redness from both. If you have ever heard an explanation for ghost pain in an amputee (going clear back to the Civil war) this is what they liken CRPS/RSD to.

CRPS/RSD can cause atrophy of the muscles in affected extremities, hair growth changes, changes to nails, ability to sweat properly, sensitivity to touch (clothing, shoes, even a gentle breeze can cause increased pain). If caught early, there is a chance for it to go into remission, but like cancer, there is no cure. In fact, CRPS/RSD rates higher on the pain chart than even end stage cancer pain.

I honestly hope that this isn't what you have. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. If you have more questions you would like answered, or need a good information site in regards to CRPS/RSD, feel free to pm me here, or send me an email off forum. My email is in my profile.

Angel ^j^