I have a bad case of complex regional pain syndrome. After six weeks in physical therapy I went on a cruise to Hawaii. The trip had been planned long before my injury. I came back almost 50 percent better. Does this mean that at least half of my symptoms are just in my head?

There are some indications that complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) has a psychologic or stress-induced component. Most doctors don’t think that’s the only cause behind the problem. As with many illnesses and injuries, emotional or psychologic stress can amplify (make louder) your symptoms.

A vacation that relaxes you also relaxes the nervous system. Since it appears that both the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral (nerves) nervous system are involved in CRPS, it makes sense that anything calming to the nervous system can alter CRPS.

Knowing that you respond well to relaxation is a useful piece of information for treatment. You can make good use of this information to continue reducing your symptoms. Massage, biofeedback, and physiologic quieting™ are tools used by physical therapists to help patients with CRPS. Make sure you report the change in symptoms to your therapist. Ask about a home program of relaxation.