If you suffered an injury in the past and are now experiencing persistent or nagging pain that will not go away, you may be suffering from reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Falling under the broad title of chronic pain, these two disorders may make it difficult or impossible to do normal work. You may also need extensive medical treatment, including prescriptions to deal with the pain. Hire a Hickory chronic pain lawyer.
Living with chronic pain can be a challenge. Daily activities can turn into difficult chores and what joy you once gleaned from your hobbies may disappear. For some, chronic pain can impact their lives so much that they may experience depression or become completely debilitated by their pain, or they are forced out of their jobs and require Social Security Disability benefits just to stay financially afloat.
Complex regional pain syndrome, commonly known as CRPS, is a chronic condition that typically impacts a limb after surgery, injury, heart attack, or stroke. It is characterized by persistent, severe pain that is excessive compared to the initial injury. Symptoms of CRPS may include changes in skin color and temperature, swelling, sensitivity to touch, and stiffness in the area that is affected.
CRPS can be divided into two types:
Although CRPS can be debilitating, early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes. Treatments may include physical therapy, medications, nerve blocks, and even spinal cord stimulation. If you are experiencing symptoms of CRPS after an injury caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. A CRPS attorney can help you pursue this compensation.
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), now often referred to as CRPS Type 1, is a subtype of CRPS without identifiable nerve damage. RSD typically develops after a minor injury or trauma, yet it results in severe, ongoing pain and hypersensitivity that makes even light touches unbearable.
Key indicators of RSD include:
RSD can drastically impact a person’s ability to work or enjoy daily life. Comprehensive treatment may involve medication, physical therapy, and psychological support. If RSD stems from an accident caused by negligence, pursuing legal action may provide the resources necessary to access treatment and recover lost income.
At the Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, we know that many accidents can lead to injuries that result in chronic pain, such as:
Whether chronic pain occurs because of a broken bone, a muscle injury or something more traumatic and life-changing, our attorneys know how to evaluate your case and seek compensation from a negligent party if necessary. Because of Attorney Lyndon R. Helton’s experience as a former insurance defense lawyer, we know how to combat the delay strategies used by insurance companies that would otherwise prevent you from obtaining the compensation you need and deserve in a timely manner.
When chronic pain feels unbearable, seek immediate advice from a healthcare professional. Adjustments to medications, physical therapy, or advanced pain management techniques like nerve blocks may help. Mindfulness, stress-reduction practices, and joining support groups can also provide emotional relief. It’s essential to address both physical and emotional needs to regain a sense of control and improve your quality of life.
Chronic pain claims are valued based on medical expenses, lost wages, and the impacts of the pain on daily life. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, also play a role. The severity, duration, and documented impact of the pain influence compensation. Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure all aspects of your pain and losses are appropriately assessed.
Breaking a chronic pain cycle requires a combination of approaches. Engage in physical therapy to address physical causes, incorporate mindfulness or relaxation techniques, and consider cognitive behavioral therapy to change pain-related thought patterns. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle with proper sleep, exercise, and nutrition can also reduce triggers, helping to manage pain more effectively.
Preventing chronic pain from taking over your life involves finding strategies that empower you. Develop a strong support system, prioritize self-care, and work with healthcare professionals to create an effective pain management plan. Incorporate activities that improve mental health, such as mindfulness or enjoyable hobbies. Staying proactive and positive can help you maintain control over your life.
For more than two decades, our firm, Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton, PLLC, has helped people throughout western North Carolina recover damages for their chronic pain injury. We do this by carefully investigating the facts and circumstances surrounding a client’s initial injury. We then gather evidence that demonstrates the chronic pain was a result of the injury. If necessary, we bring in medical professionals to help support your claim and recover damages for your loss.
To schedule a private consultation, contact us online or call our Hickory office at 828-662-8032 or toll free at 888-321-0494. All initial consultations are free of charge.