If you surveyed my friends on what my month is, I would imagine you would hear 2 answers. March and October. March because it is my birth month and October because many of them know, October is Physical Therapy Month. Now, it's time to add November to the list. November is RSD/CRPS Month.
This is the month to raise awareness. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (AKA Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy). Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is a malfunction of the sympathetic nervous system, typically in someone's limbs but can anywhere in the body. It's estimated that 75,000 people will be diagnosed with CRPS this year in America alone.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome more often than not is a lifelong battle. Some lucky few enter remission and an even smaller few stay in remission. It isn't always an uphill battle... sometimes there are valleys. I am currently experiencing a valley and am beyond thankful for every minute of it.
It is because of this valley that this blog is later than desired. I had the best intentions of publishing this at the beginning of November but thanks to a successful response to my new medication and the last spinal injection, I can proudly say, I've been too busy to blog. My pain has been manageable and has allowed me to keep a hectic schedule and enjoy it. Many of you probably wouldn't be thankful for a hectic schedule but I am.
This blog is still important even if published at the end of the month. There is never a bad time to raise awareness, there is never a bad time to educate, to bring attention to or "vent" about this devastating affliction. But most importantly, this blog is still important and on time even at the end of the month because it brings hope and it is never too late for that.
For further information on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome:
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
