Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association (RSDSA)

02/21/2026

From The Archives | Dr. Kurt Heitman joined us as a part of our livestream series to discuss in the eyes. 👁️

Does your current ophthalmologist know and understand CRPS? If so, let us know below in the comments ↓

Dr. Heitman is in private practice and is a partner in Southern Eye Associates located in Greenville, SC. He obtained his Medical Degree at the University of...

02/19/2026

Do not forget to register for these FREE March 2026 webinars hosted by US Pain Foundation! ↓

02/19/2026

EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases

02/18/2026

RSDSA is *always* looking to feature more Stories of Hope on our blog and future editions of In Rare Form.

We understand that it can be difficult to write about your journey, but trust us when we say there are *many* CRPS Warriors out there who are interested in hearing more about the treatments that worked for you, what didn't, what your day-to-day life looks like, and more.

If you are unsure where to start, we can provide you with a blog template! The blog can be as short or as long as you wish and you can remain anonymous if you choose.

If you are are interested, please send us a message.

02/16/2026

The CDC’s 2016 opioid prescribing guideline not only had disastrous consequences for many pain patients, but raised the cost of treating them in primary care practices, according to a new analysis.

By Pat Anson The CDC’s 2016 opioid prescribing guideline not only had disastrous consequences for many pain patients, but raised the cost of treating them in primary care practices, according to a new analysis. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison studied the budget impact of four di

02/14/2026

💌🎗️ Looking for a last minute gift for your Warrior Valentine? Look no further than our gift guide ↓

We've spoken to numerous CRPS Warriors over the years about the everyday items they love as well as the gifts they reach for during flares and treatment days.

02/13/2026

We have a busy year planned, so tune in to learn more about research, support, and community! 🧡

02/13/2026

The February 2026 edition of RSDSA's digital newsletter, In Rare Form, is now available: https://bit.ly/4rHKI32

In this packed issue we continue to focus on research, support, and community!

🔬 Research 🔬
We share a list of current research studies, a recent endorsement on CRPS trial designs, and share details on our rescheduled Facebook and YouTube Live with Norman Harden, MD which will focus on updates with the International Research Consortium for CRPS.

And stay tuned for a spring announcement on a new research study!

🫂 Support 🫂
We provide tips for caregivers ahead of National Caregiver Appreciation Day, share details on Fight the Flame's virtual support group meeting (tomorrow February 14th!) and their Saturday, March 21st conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. We also provide details on a new support group meeting on Sunday, March 1st in the Greater Tampa Bay, Florida area.

🎗️ Community 🎗️
Get ready to help spread awareness and connect with community members this year at Walk Strong in Dallas, RSDSA's 7th Annual Walk for CRPS, Young Adult Weekend Retreat: Scottsdale, and more!

If you are interested in sponsoring a future issue of In Rare Form, please contact us at info@rsds.org.

02/13/2026

Attention Warriors in Connecticut: Uplifting Athletes, the Alexion Pharmaceuticals New Haven Office, and the Bridgeport Islanders are excited to invite individuals and families impacted by rare disease to take part in a special Rare Disease Day Celebration happening on Tuesday, February 17th at 6pm Eastern. 🏒

This free Uplifting Experience includes game tickets, food, beverages, and a chance to connect and uplift the rare disease community. The experience is inclusive and welcoming to individuals of all ages and abilities.

Total Mortgage Arena is ADA accessible, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable evening for everyone.

Sign up here ↓

Join us for a Rare Disease Day Celebration at the Bridgeport Islanders game!

02/12/2026

The Young Adult Support Group meets tonight, Thursday, February 12th at 7PM Eastern on Zoom. This group is for young adults with between the ages of 18 and 35.

If you have questions or if you're interested in being added to the email list, please contact youngadult.crps@gmail.com and/or join the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/332916620662853

Can't make it tonight? The group meets every other month (February, April, June, August, October, and December) on the second Thursday at 7PM Eastern.

Not a young adult? Check out our list of active support groups here: https://rsds.org/find-a-support-group-near-you/

02/11/2026

Spread the word: US Pain Foundation is hosting a FREE two-part webinar series on Zoom focused on navigating the claims process and effectively positioning yourself for successful Long-Term Disability and Social Security (SSA) Disability claims.

*March 10 at 1PM Eastern*
Navigating Insurance and Disability Benefits: Preparing for Your Long-Term Disability Claim
Register here: https://bit.ly/3MhYpqD

*March 12 at 1PM Eastern*
Navigating Insurance and Disability Benefits: Preparing for Your Social Security Disability Claim
Register here: https://bit.ly/3M8w9Xs

In this series, you’ll:
→ Discover how to build a compelling medical record with objective documentation, functional assessments, and specialist opinions that insurers cannot ignore.
→ Learn to avoid the most common pitfalls and reasons for denied claims when chronic pain is the issue.
→ Understand the psychology of insurer and SSA communication, hear helpful communication tips, and learn what NOT to disclose.
→ Explore how to obtain and review common disability policy provisions and qualification documents.
→ Consider various strategies around employment timing and severance.
→ Discover next steps after approval and as benefits continue.