[Boopala]

I recently (9/13/05) had major surgery for lumbar fusion at the L4 and L5 (S1) locations due to a fracture that was causing my wait to shift onto the discs, thus causing me major pain. I developed CRPS back in May of 2004 after surgery where I had an implant put in the joint behind my left foot's big toe. I have been through many doctors since then and still suffer with pain regarding this disorder. Well since the recent surgery, my pain has gotten worse and I can tell the disorder has spread. I have tried to express this to my doctors, but at present the main concern is my recuperation from the current surgery. I am not able to take anti-inflammatory for another month because it may interfere with my recovery. I was taking vicoprofen before the surgery, because it has advil in it instead of tylenol (vicodine). It helped with the burning, but not completely. My pain at times has been unreal. I read that Paul Abdul was diagnosed with RSD (CRPS) and she was taking Enbrel. I just found out that Enbrel is a shot to be given, not pills. I can't begin to say how terrifying that is. But I would be willing to endure that if it helps. Does anyone with RSD know if this helps? Are ther serious side affects? Paula says that she is not in pain anymore. How often do you have to get or give yourself the shots? I also would love to find any kind of support group, even if it just online. Please help with any information anyone can provide!!!!

Thanks,
Tina

[dobo]

I don't know what CRPS or RSD is but I can tell you that I was taking a very potent antiflam called diclofenac after I crushed 5 vertebrae in my back. I didn't have surgery but I don't hardly think it did anything but help with my recovery.

[Boopala]

CRPS is short for Chronic Reginoal Pain Syndrome (AKA as RSD (Regional Sympathetic Distophry). Sorry if my spelling is off. Thanks for the information though and I wish you gods speed!!! I read that Enbrel has to be given by shot, not pill, so I will take the name of the anti-inflammatory you listed and ask my doctor. But, I still have to wait another month or more before they will even consider it.

[dobo]

My wife had a surgery that went bad earlier this year. One of the things they gave her was toradol. I think that was for intestinal inflammation because her bowel shut down.