I'm suffering from Regional Pain Syndrome or CRPS in my feet. How can I lessen

1. 48

   Michael-Wilhelmiposted 9 years ago

   I'm suffering from Regional Pain Syndrome or CRPS in my feet.  How can I lessen the pain?
   
   Regional pain syndrome is also known as CRPS is a rare problem.  Doctors do not know a lot about it and it is because of this that every doctor has a different treatment for it. 
   
   I have been suffering with CRPS for over 7 years now.  I moved from CA to NM back in June and the pain clinic I am with--knowing my history in California--still wants to cut down the strength on my Fentanyl  patch.

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2. 57

   kortneypacposted 8 years ago

   I just completed a hub about CRPS - it may help you to read through that.  Just a thought...
   
   I am a physician assistant and treat a lot of patients with CRPS.  I have found that most patients respond to an anti-depressant or an anti-convulsant - these are both indicated for use in neuropathic pain.  I'm not saying you are depressed, but the tricyclic anti-depressants and the SNRI anti-depressants both have properties that also  help in neuropathic pain, which is what CRPS is.  Have you tried Lyrica (pregabalin), Gabapentin (Neurontin), amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), duloxetine (Cymbalta)?  I know that A LOT of doctors are really restricting the use of opioids, especially Fentanyl, and its unfortunate for those who have real pain.  If you are interested in non-opioid means of pain control, there are options, including the medications I listed above, - another med would be an alpha-1 adrenergic blocker - an example would be terazosin.  Ask your doctor.  Have you tried a spinal cord stimulator?  Or sympathetic injections?  Take a look at my hub.  I hope this helped some.  Good luck to you, hang in there - I'm incredibly sorry for the pain that you have!!!

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3. 82

   jimmyglaughlinposted 7 years ago

   Kortneypac is spot on, but I would like to add to it. First, I have CRPS. Second, fentanyl is, in my opinion, I am not a doctor, 100% wrong for CRPS. Any doctor who knows CRPS, would not have you on it.
   The meds kortney suggested are where you need to be.
   And, I highly suggest, LDN, low dose naltrexone. This an off label use if naltrexone. When researching, be sure to look up low dose naltrexone, not just naltrexone.
   Of course, we are all different and you might a different blend of meds than me, but look into all of these.
   And for your well being, get a Doctor that knows the disease. Please, I cannot stress this enough, but take charge and be your best medical advocate.
   I have a hub on the subject and
   I have a blog, please read it, I am willing to help in any way I can
   Lifewithcrps.com

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