Hi all,


It is an interesting topic for sure but I think the term "burning itself out" may not be the best way to describe the process, even though that is the description the medicos use. It does sound a little as though we are not recognising the signficance of having CRPS if we are stating that it may just "burn itself out"
I think it is a term that really encompasses those who go onto remission or quite simply get better----and I do know a few who have done just that.
As for the path of destruction left behind, I agree that with some people (me for instance) there are such terrible deformities, contractures etc that it wouldn't matter if the pain went I would still be disabled but there are many people for whom pain is the main or the only symptom they have and if their CRPS 'BURNT OUT" they would have no deficit apart from the horrible memories

I know also that my doctor who whilst dealing in all pain management problems, specialises in CRPS, says that he has nobody who has CRPS over the age of 62 that still come to him for treament even though he has seen them for years.
He concludes that this must be an indication of either the disease has "burnt out" got better or the patients have developed other methods rather than conventional pain management techniques to manage their pain.
I did confront him about the rate of suicide and he says statistics say it is only marginally higher than that of the normal population.
I guess it can only be a good thing to always hold hope that "burn out" will be a part of OUR journey with this very destructive disease.
Hugs to all
Tayla