Erythromelalgia is rare disorder that typically affects the skin of the feet or hands, or both. The skin of other areas such as the legs, arms, trunk, ears, or nose may also be affected. Erythromelalgia usually occurs bilaterally, but unilateral cases occur. It is estimated that there are approximately three people with erythromelalgia for every million people in Western countries.

Erythromelalgia causes redness of the skin that looks like a severe sunburn. To the patient, the skin feels hot and burns. Indeed, erythromelalgia is one of the most painful disorders on earth. Mild symptoms often impair normal functioning. Severe symptoms cause constant pain and disability..

Dr. Cohen was severely disabled by erythromelalgia from 1994 until he received an accurate diagnosis in 1998. Even with a diagnosis, he was unable to find an expert to treat him. He searched the medical literature and tried the treatments reported to help erythromelalgia. None of these treatments worked. Then he conducted research on his own and discovered that magnesium, when used properly, provides remarkable benefits for about 30% of erythromelalgia sufferers. His two articles on the use of magnesium for erythromelalgia are listed below. Dr. Cohen also is uniquely knowledgeable about natural, non-drug therapies for erythromelalgia.

Dr. Cohen is the only expert on the treatment of erythromelalgia in the world who: 1) has published articles on the treatment of this disorder; 2) is knowledgeable about the many different therapies for erythromelalgia, including therapies unknown to most doctors; and 3) has treated himself successfully. His condition remains under good control without pain, redness, or limitations in functioning.

Over the years, doctors and patients from three continents have consulted with Dr. Cohen about how to treat erythromelalgia. He also helps people applying for disability benefits.

If you are interested in seeing Dr. Cohen at his office or consulting with him by telephone, please contact the office at 858-345-1760. He is licensed to practice in California, but for people in other states or countries, he can provide information and suggestions about treatment. He also can speak with your doctor about treatment for your condition.

Cohen, JS. Erythromelalgia: New Theories and New Therapies. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Nov. 2000; 43:841-7.

Cohen, JS. High-Dose, Oral Magnesium in the Treatment of Chronic, Intractable Erythromelalgia. Annals of Pharmacotherapy, Feb. 2002;36:255-60.

Cohen, JS. Magnesium and erythromelalgia: a clinically important vasoactive mineral and a rare disorder. Italian Journal of Pediatrics 2004;30:69-72.

View all of Dr. Cohen's medical articles, consumer publications, and presentations.