Living with CRPS

CRPS is a horrible condition.  The abbreviation stands for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.  It’s often difficult for others to fully understand what it’s like to be living with CRPS.  According to the McGill Pain Index, it rates a 42 and is one of the most painful chronic conditions we know of.  The condition is sometimes referred to as Causalgia and/or RSD.

The intense nerve pain is constant.  This means it can show up anywhere in the body where there are nerves.  That’s pretty much everywhere.

Allodyna is a condition that typically shows up with CRPS.  It’s an extreme sensitivity to touch, sound and/or vibration.

When doctors try to diagnose CRPS, they typically look for 4 common symptoms:

• Chronic burning
• Inflammation
• Spasms
• Insomnia

Combine these symptoms and patients living with CRPS can often deal with the onset of depression.  Their inability to achieve deep sleep and the seeming impossibility of others to comprehend what they’re going through can make life almost unbearable.

Fortunately, there are treatments, but like all medicine they can have various levels of success from patient to patient.

While there is usually a specific injury that may trigger CRPS, the symptoms don’t remain localized to the injured area.  It’s not uncommon for the nerve pain to spread to various parts of the body.

Living with CRPS can be overwhelming.  If you suffer from this condition, know that it’s going to be a long road.  I’m not trying to add to your pain, but it’s a very serious condition.  Beyond medical treatment, you might also consider seeking the help of a training therapist or psychologist.  Life is going to be different now.  How you choose to deal with that change and the future is up to you.

The Scheynost Law Offices understands CRPS.  We’ve successfully dealt with many cases involving this and RSD.  This experience enables us to better understand exactly what you and your family are dealing with on a day-to-day level.  Remember, there are treatments to help and professionals to assist you in the journey.  Life will be different, but there is hope for tomorrow.