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Last updated Monday, December 27, 2004
Pain and fatigue
Acetaminophen, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used for pain relief, but narcotics should usually be avoided.
A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) unit or biofeedback may be tried. A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated device which relieves pain by blocking nerve impulses. Biofeedback is a technique which can help control pain, blood flow, and skin temperature.
Another treatment approach for RSDS consists of blocking the sympathetic nervous system by injecting a numbing agent near the affected nerves or alongside the spinal column. A series of three to five blocks may be given over a period of 7 to 14 days.
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