CopingwithCRPSRSD

Coping and support

Living with a chronic, painful condition can be challenging, especially when — as is often the case with complex regional pain syndrome — your friends and family don't believe you could be feeling as much pain as you describe. Share information from reliable sources about complex regional pain syndrome with those close to you to help them understand what you're experiencing.

Take care of your physical and mental health by following these suggestions:

Maintain normal daily activities as best you can.

Pace yourself and be sure to get the rest that you need.

Stay connected with friends and family.

Continue to pursue hobbies that you enjoy and are able to do.

If complex regional pain syndrome makes it difficult for you to do things you enjoy, ask your doctor about ways to get around the obstacles.

Keep in mind that your physical health can directly affect your mental health. Denial, anger and frustration are common with chronic illnesses. At times, you may need more tools to deal with your emotions. A therapist, behavioral psychologist or other professional may be able to help you put things in perspective. They also may be able to teach you coping skills, such as relaxation or meditation techniques.

Sometimes joining a support group, where you can share experiences and feelings with other people, is a good approach. Ask your doctor what support groups are available in your community.

Prevention

The following measures may help you reduce the risk of developing complex regional pain syndrome:

Taking vitamin C . Studies have shown that people who take daily vitamin C supplements have a lower risk of complex regional pain syndrome compared with those who don't take vitamin C.

If you already have CRPS vitamin C lowers the chance of spreading by up to 27%. Taking it as a preventitve measure in case of an injury only makes sense (of course check with your doctor first).

Early mobilization after a stroke. Some research suggests that people who get out of bed and walk around soon after a stroke (early mobilization) lower their risk of complex regional pain syndrome.

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Coping with CRPS/RSD

This portion of our website belongs to everyone who has chronic pain or loves someone with chronic pain. Here we want your input on how you make life easier for yourself and what simple things might help.

Below is a compilation of things that some have found helpful ranging from skin care to dealing with siblings of a child with CRPS/RSD. This portion of the site will be updated regularly as we get feed back from you. We hope you find some of these tips helpful and that they make a difference in your day.