Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

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My Way To Become Centered, Find Peace And Relaxation

I'm a rebel crafter. 🧶😏 I can follow patterns but most of the time I prefer to use my instincts and design my own pieces, like in this combo image. I think that must be the same approach I've used in my healing journey. My instincts have sharpened and my self-awareness has increased my mindfulness capabilities.
💜🧠💜 Survive To Thrive 🕊

#MightyTogether #DistractMe #MentalHealth #Trauma #Anxiety #MightyPets #Depression #ExaggeratedStartleResponse #intimatepartnerviolence
#TraumaticBrainInjury
#NeurologicalVisionImpairment
#PostTraumaticParoxysmalHemicrania
#PostconcussionSyndrome
#ChronicVestibularMigraine
#ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder
#ComplexRegionalPainSyndrome
#Osteoarthritis
#ADHD

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Your Pain Is Shared, Your Words Carry Truth And Meaning, You Are Valid

What I needed most early in my healing journey, was to feel validated. Once not only did I understand this but really believed it to be true, I was able to make sense of how and why the therapy was designed to help bring me to my New Normal.

It takes being brave enough to accept the new empty canvas which your chronic illness(s) mental, physical or both has/have presented you with. Then, it takes deciding how you intend to paint that canvas.

Will it be with positive mindful forethought? If it's too much to think past the blank canvas right now, that's ok. Just remain mindful and strong. It'll be there, ready for you when you're ready to paint your bright future. 🖼

#MightyTogether #DistractMe #MentalHealth #Trauma #Anxiety #MightyPets #Depression #ExaggeratedStartleResponse #intimatepartnerviolence
#TraumaticBrainInjury #NeurologicalVisionImpairment
#ParoxysmalHemicrania
#PostTraumaticParoxysmalHemicrania
#PostconcussionSyndrome
#ChronicVestibularMigraine
#ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder
#ComplexRegionalPainSyndrome
#Osteoarthritis
#ADHD

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I'm new here!

Hi, my name is SurvivingCRPS. Thank you that I can feel less isolated & alone by being part of this community. I've had crps for 6 years now & sadly it has become progressively debilitating. However.....I'm now starting to research the spiritual root for this horrific disorder & would love to share anything that maybe helpful to others as we walk together on this painful journey. I'm also researching which aromatherapy oils may ease the pain ....as you all know, pregabalin has awful side effects...so trying as many alternatives as possible ....diet, herbs, sound therapy ...will send links etc as I'm able....little steps....toward hope & healing.

#MightyTogether #ComplexRegionalPainSyndrome

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Weather Can Play An Important Role In Our Disabilities And Chronic Illnesses

I wouldn't have been surprised to see Dorothy and Toto flying around outside last night, considering the strength of the storms. Multiple tornadoes were in the area and there were frequent lightening bursts but no sound. That's what sucked, because of course then the power kept going on and of repeatedly ⚡️like something out of the 1931 movie Frankenstein 🎬.

Bless his furry little heart, our freakin awesome 10 yr old Russian Blue 💙 Niklas Squishy Kitteh knew something was up way before it hit, and stuck by me because of my CPTSD and head injuries from the assault 8 yrs ago. He watches over my awesome hubby too, who suffers from chronic rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

Yep, the adult me disappeared. When I wasn't curled up on the couch looking out of two windows on high alert in alarmed anticipation of a humongous clap of thunder that would scare the crap outta me, I was in a cautious tip-toe stop motion move to the kitchen.

Seriously, what in the blue blazes happened to me? I mean, I know but it kinda pisses me off that it can grab hold of me like that.

Now here's the other thing with this. Any time we have a drop in barometric pressure, my head injuries take over, especially the Post-Traumatic Paroxysmal Hemicrania. Here on The Mighty, the group is listed as Paroxysmal Hemicrania. All I can say is that I hope others don't experience what I do with my face and head swelling when it flares. The anxiety with that plus the sensitivity of the ears and shock from the thunder... the fact that you can't escape any of it.

I know this was all forced on me, I never asked for any of it but being pissed off won't do any good. It's a ridiculous waste of emotion right? There's no point in resentment. I just get tired of always saying that. Tired of always saying ♡pick yourself up and keep going♡.

Then I take a deep breath, pick myself up and keep going. 🧠Survive To Thrive🕊

#MightyTogether #MightyPets #DistractMe #MentalHealth #Trauma #Anxiety #Depression #ExaggeratedStartleResponse #intimatepartnerviolence
#TraumaticBrainInjury
#NeurologicalVisionImpairment
#PostTraumaticParoxysmalHemicrania
#ParoxysmalHemicrania
#PostconcussionSyndrome
#ChronicVestibularMigraine
#ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder
#ComplexRegionalPainSyndrome
#Osteoarthritis
#ADHD

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Allow Yourself The Courtesy Of A New Perspective

It's often easier to be kind to others than to ourselves. I've had to work hard at retraining my thought processes to accept myself as a work-in-progress. I think in visuals. One which has really helped me is to see it as rewiring the circuitry in my brain in order to recognize myself in a new light.

#MightyTogether #MightyPets #MentalHealth #Trauma #Anxiety #Depression
#TraumaticBrainInjury
#NeurologicalVisionImpairment
#PostTraumaticParoxysmalHemicrania
#PostconcussionSyndrome
#ChronicVestibularMigraine
#ComplexPosttraumaticStressDisorder
#ComplexRegionalPainSyndrome
#Osteoarthritis
#ExaggeratedStartleResponse
#intimatepartnerviolence #ADHD #Tinnitus

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The impact of CRPS and Intimacy in Relationships

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that can have a profound impact on every aspect of a person's life, including their intimate and marital relationships. The constant and often debilitating pain associated with CRPS can lead to significant emotional, psychological, and social challenges, which can strain the closest relationships, particularly marriages. In this blog, we'll explore the various ways in which CRPS can affect intimacy in marriage and discuss strategies for couples to manage these challenges together.

Understanding CRPS and Its Impacts

CRPS is characterized by severe, persistent pain that typically affects a limb but can spread to other areas of the body. The pain is often accompanied by swelling, changes in skin color, temperature, and sensitivity, making even the gentlest touch unbearable. This condition can lead to a cascade of secondary problems, including mobility issues, sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and social isolation.

The Impact on Intimacy

Intimacy is a multifaceted concept that encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological closeness. CRPS can affect all these aspects of intimacy in a marriage:

1. Physical Intimacy: The physical pain and sensitivity associated with CRPS can make touch, cuddling, and sexual activity painful or even impossible. This can lead to a decrease in physical intimacy, leaving both partners feeling disconnected and frustrated.

2. Emotional Intimacy: Living with chronic pain can lead to feelings of anger, sadness, and hopelessness, which can be difficult for both partners to navigate. The person with CRPS may withdraw emotionally, while the other partner may feel helpless or neglected, leading to a strain on emotional intimacy.

3. Communication: Effective communication is crucial for maintaining intimacy, but CRPS can create barriers here as well. Pain and fatigue can make it challenging for the affected partner to express their needs and feelings, while the other partner may struggle to understand or cope with the situation, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.

Strategies for Navigating CRPS and Intimacy in Marriage

Despite these challenges, there are ways for couples to maintain and even strengthen their intimacy in the face of CRPS:

1. Open Communication: It's essential for both partners to communicate openly and honestly about their feelings, fears, and needs. This can help prevent misunderstandings and build a stronger emotional connection.

2. Education and Awareness: Both partners should strive to learn as much as possible about CRPS. Understanding the condition can foster empathy and patience and help the couple work together to manage the symptoms.

3. Adapting Physical Intimacy: Couples may need to explore new ways to express physical affection that accommodate the limitations imposed by CRPS. This might include non-painful forms of touch, alternative sexual activities, or simply finding new, gentle ways to maintain physical closeness.

4. Seeking Support: Professional counseling can provide valuable support and guidance for couples navigating the challenges of CRPS. Support groups for chronic pain can also offer a sense of community and understanding.

5. Focusing on the Positive: Despite the challenges, it's important for couples to focus on the positive aspects of their relationship and find joy in shared experiences, however small they may be.

In conclusion, while CRPS can undoubtedly strain the intimacy in a marriage, with understanding, communication, and creativity, couples can find ways to maintain their connection and support each other through the challenges. Remember, you're not alone, and with love, patience, and teamwork, your marriage can continue to be a source of strength and comfort.

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