Actually CRPS is the new name, for what used to be called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, or causalgia.

Anyway, I was on a stable dose of oxycodone for a long time, but somehow I started to have all the symptoms of withdrawal and loss of pain control. It got worse and worse, and I ended up just having to do a full withdrawal. I lost 60 lbs. Many doctors simply do not believe this happens, but at least one doctor was brave enough to write about it. It's called Downhill Spiral Syndrome.

I really have had to make decisions on my own, as my family doctor has no real understanding of what I'm going through. And I have to wait weeks and weeks to see my pain specialist. I haven't had a chance yet to even talk to him about alternatives.

I hadn't taken any oxycodone since December 7, but I took a little bit the last couple of days. I had to drive three hours in a snow storm yesterday just to get in to the hospital for some tests. There's no way I could drive home again without a little "help". Mindfulness only goes so far.

Anyway.....

Lar