@overwhelmed, I am so very sorry you are suffering.

I don't think @janetpr meant it is "all in your head" as a "psychological" issue but rather the "physiological" process that takes place in the body with CRPS. Our brain is amazing but also complex, it drives the central nervous system throughout our entire body.

In CRPS, the brain makes pathways to the effected are of our body that is out of proportion to the injury which occurred. The new pathway send pain signals, in which we stop using that area, then glia cells (and free radicals) build up and the process continues, the brain keeps sending signals. By using the area, it is painful but can build a new pathway and tell the painful pathway there is no injury and try to reverse. In explaining it to others, I sometimes refer to phantom limb pain. The pain is very real, the brain is indeed sending pain signals, but out of proportion to what actually exists.

I am very open to both traditional, alternative, functional medicine and research the underlying scientific & physiologica basis for any treatment.

Nice lecture from Dr. Chopra at CRPS /RSD Conference.

My preteen daughter was diagnosed with CRPS (foot) and after weeks of sifting through medical research, abtracts, watching lectures and presentations, speaking with others I've personally come to conclusion for treating her. Build new pathways to the brain by desensitizing "moving & using" her foot. Relearning to walk again. It is a slow process, takes time and perseverance. It is also painful for her but she is improving. In fact, on days she isn't moving, the pain seems to be worse at night.

I am corresponding with other patients and parents of children w CRPS & CRPS patients all over the country and the world. Several are treating their children at Pediatric Pain Rehab Programs such as Boston's Children's, Nemours Orlando, Seattle Children's, Philly CHOP, etc. which 4-5 week daily programs 9-4p, outpatient. I believe there is a program for adults at Mayo. Still a long way to go and teaching her how to manage her disease and equipping her with tools in the future.

She is in outpatient physical therapy, PT at home ~ off crutches now but walking tip toe on her effected foot. Still painful but a little less and gaining function.
Not for everyone, but many patients respond to this treatment, retraining the brain and makes a new pathway to the brain regarding pain response.
Kind Regards.