RSDS from brachial plexus injury

[Jacquie]

I had shoulder surgery on 2/5 and was given a nerve block to keep my right arm numb for 72 hours post surgery. My hand never woke up and developed RSDS or Causalgia II/Chronic Pain. I cannot use my hand and have some improvement where I can feel, but no strength or fist. I can now move my fingers and have PT three times a week and five times a day at home. I have a very demanding job and need to know if ANYONE has experience with this...i just keep hearing how "rare" it is and my physician is blaming the nerve block.

Thanks for any insight...I can't find anyone in Sacramento who specializes in this type of nerve disorder.

[simsione]

Jackie,
Have you tried getting a referral to UC DAVIS Med Center, Dr.Zsabo, he's head of ortho there.
hope it helps

tonya sims
shingle springs, va.
530-672-9503

[J]

I too am new to this site. I had shoulder surgery last year and, due to regaining only about 80% of my ROM following the operation, my Dr. convinced me to have a MUA (manipulation under anesthesia) to "break up" the scar tissue. Mind you, prior to this date, I was able to lift my arm up and down, do to work, drive a car, exercise, etc. I have the MUA on 4-10-2007 and ever since then have had nearly 0% use of my deltoid, infraspinatus and suprasinatus muscles. My Dr. blames the Nerve Block and the Anesthesiologist blames the "traction" of the MUA for the injury. Either way, I have no idea what's up. I have had 2 EMG's now and they show problems with the axillary and suprascapular nerves. I just want to get better and will do whatever it takes. I am in PT each week but want to find a good neurologist / neurosurgeon for consult. The pain is quite intense in the back of my shoulder and scapula and the pins and needles radiate into the left arm all the time. Is this a "forever" problem or is there real hope out there? Thanks.

[Jacquie]

Thanks for the information. I am getting some motion and function back but the major RSDS has gone (sweating, temperature changes, extreme nail growth) but the stiffness, nerve pain and lack of function persists. I think the biggest message is to find a provider who knows how to treat your injury, do the work even if boring and painful and be patient, it takes "up to two years" I was told!