26/01/2024
I was diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in Feb 2016 at the age of 51.My goal is to spread awareness of this rare and often misunderstood disorder. I want to turn this struggle into a strength. I want everyone to know that there is someone who will always be in their corner. Always!
CRPS, CENTRAL SENSITISATION & SYSTEMIC COMPLICATIONS
Research & technology has come a long way, the importance and acknowledgment that CRPS is more than just pain is needed.
Taking part in research and treated by these CRPS experts over past years with no invasive treatments has been educational and holding on to hope for the future.
I'm hoping my journey will be helpful to some.
This group is open to offer support or receive support to someone with CRPS or supporters in a non-hostile manner and respect.
We cannot give medical advice, although what treatment works or does not work for the individual along with sharing symptoms is appreciated and respected.
WHAT IS COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME CRPS)?
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS), is a condition that causes pain; swelling; changes in skin color, texture and temperature and other symptoms. It usually affects your extremities – an arm, leg, hand or foot – but can affect any part of your body.
Most cases of CRPS start after a soft tissue injury (such as a sprain), fracture or surgery. The pain can be intense and is much more than what would be expected during recovery from an injury, fracture or surgery.
Experts believe that CRPS occurs as a result of dysfunction in the central or peripheral nervous systems. Your central nervous system consists of your brain and spinal cord. Your peripheral nervous system relays information from your brain and spinal cord to your organs, arms, legs, fingers, and toes. The abnormal functioning results in an overreaction to pain signals that the nervous system can’t shut off.
What causes complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)?
How CRPS is caused is not totally understood. Scientists think it might be a combination of factors that produce similar symptoms. They think CRPS is the result of general inflammation, inflammation of the nerves and perhaps even changes in a person’s perception of pain in the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system).
Researchers have found certain signs of inflammation – certain substances and chemicals – in the affected tissue, blood and spinal fluid of patients with CRPS. They have also found evidence of the release of certain pain- and inflammation-producing compounds in nerves in the affected area. There may also be dysfunction in the messaging between nerves at the site of injury. There are also signs of other substances and chemicals being released at the affected site, which results in an overreaction or oversensitivity to the sensation of pain in response to the injury. Autoimmune and genetic causes may also play a role in the development of CRPS. Researchers continue to look for and further understand causes of this condition.
