RSD: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy | CRPS: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Attorney

RSD/CRPS is a painful and debilitating chronic condition that requires treatment and medical attention to manage a lifetime of pain.  Following are some frequently asked questions regarding RSD/CRPS:

What is RSD/CRPS?

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition typically affecting arms, legs, hands, or feet, usually manifesting after an injury or trauma to that limb.  Medical experts believe that CRPS is peripheral and central nervous system damage or malfunction.  CRPS is characterized by lingering or excessive pain, changes in skin color, temperature, and/or swelling in the affected area.

What causes RSD/CRPS?

Medical experts are not sure what causes some individuals to develop CRPS while others with similar trauma do not.  However, in the majority of cases, CRPS is triggered by physical trauma or injury – such as those suffered in a car accident, construction accidents, work injury or medical procedure.  The most common triggers are fractures, sprains, soft tissue injuries, limb immobilization, surgical or medical procedures.  CRPS is an abnormal response to the trauma that magnifies the ordinary effects of the injury.  And it is not known why some individuals have an excessive response to a trigger while others do not.

There is also some data that suggests that CRPS may be influenced by genetics.  CRPS has also developed without any known injury but may have been caused by an internal injury due to an infection, a blood vessel, or nerve problem.  And in many instances, CRPS results from multiple causes that together produce various symptoms.

Should I file a CRPS/RSD lawsuit?

If you were injured in an accident that was not your fault and subsequently were diagnosed with CRPS/RSD, you may have the right to sue the responsible party  to recover compensation for your injuries.  The condition is to date, incurable and therefore requires a lifelong pain management.  A lawsuit allows you to recover compensation for the losses you have suffered and will continue to suffer in the future.

What are damages in a CRPS/RSD lawsuit?

Damages are what you have lost and suffered and will suffer in the future as a result of your injuries and the appropriate compensation for those losses.  A settlement in a CRPS/RSD case may include compensatory or punitive damages, for pain and suffering and post and future medical costs associated with the necessary treatment. Compensatory damages cover current and future losses and expenses related to your injury.

How do I know if I have a case?

An experienced, New York RSD attorney can assess the facts of your case and help you determine the legal remedies available in your case.  CRPS/RSD is not widely understood by the public or even within the legal community, so it is important to work with an attorney who has experience with this type of case and understands the impact that this condition has on an individual’s life.

Discuss your case with an experienced NY personal injury attorney

If your CRPS/RSD is the result of an injury caused by another’s recklessness or negligence, you need to speak to an attorney immediately.  John Fazzini has advocated for CRPS/RSD and personal injury victims for over 20 and he can help you.  To discuss your case and the legal options available to you, contact us online or call (631) 547-8989 today to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation.

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