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Twice a month, I’ll answer readers’ questions.  Click here to submit a question.

Jeisea writes:  “You informed us about that fantastic downloadable booklet for families or supporters of people who have pain.  My Google group is putting together questionaires to assist pain sufferers in explaining CRPS to others.  I was wondering if you know of other resources.”

Whether people will understand pain when we explain it is an unknown.  Sometimes people are truly interested, sometimes not.  Sometimes people believe you, sometimes not.  Sometimes it’s worth the effort, sometimes not.

One resource I’m aware of is a small card made by the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association that briefly describes what CRPS/RSD is, and how others can help.  You can see the card here, and order it here (1 card is free to members of RSDSA).  This card also shows a face pain scale, which I helpful for those without pain to see.

Another resource is the Letter To Those Without Pain (which has also been edited to respond to many different physical illnesses).  It’s longer than the RSDSA card, as it’s more comprehensive.  In addition to describing pain and how others can help, it suggests what others not do, e.g. don’t dismiss pain, don’t make a million suggestions that “have to work,” etc.

Both of these resources are helpful for others who are interested in learning about pain and how they can help.  However, I also think that sometimes it’s better to not explain your pain, and to save your energy for something positive.  This might be the case when others…

• aren’t truly interested
• are sure they have all the answers to fix you
• are negative about your treatment
• blame you for your pain

Jeisea herself has a website CRPS/RSD A Better Life, which is a great resource, too.

Readers, what other resources can you recommend?  Let us know in the comments!

Other articles you might like:

1. Surviving a Loved One’s Chronic Pain
2. Are You Pain Free?  10 Things People With Pain Would Like You To Know
3. Pain and Your Family Series
4. 3 Great Resources For Families To Learn More About Pain
5. Help Your Family And Friends Cope With Your Pain Disorder