Senator Harrison Raises Awareness on Pain Disorder

State Senator J. Berry Harrison, D-Fairfax, presented a proclamation by Governor Brad Henry to Ralston constituent Vonda Goad and many others who suffer from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSD), which is also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

RSD/CRPS is a multi-symptom, multi-system syndrome that usually affects one or more extremities; however, it can affect virtually any part of the body. The disorder usually occurs after trauma to any extremity such as a broken bone. The severity of the trauma is not a factor in the disorder; one could contract RSD by simply tripping or through a severe break.

"I was very pleased that Governor Henry put forth the effort to declare November as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Month for the State of Oklahoma," stated Senator Harrison. "RSD is not a rare disease, but is one that many people don't know much about. It affects thousands of Oklahomans and potentially millions of Americans."

Senator Harrison visited with those who drove from all over the state to commemorate this event. Vonda Goad has suffered from RSD/CRPS since her arm was caught in a conveyor belt several years ago. She has since undergone physical therapy, spinal injections and even surgery to implant a spinal cord stimulator, which helps to block the constant pain.

"Those diagnosed with RSD must forever deal with the pain that shoots throughout their arms and legs. There is not a cure for this disorder, only treatment to help alleviate the pain. Even with early treatment, RSD could become a chronic condition," stated Harrison. "This syndrome may follow approximately five percent of all injuries and that is why it is imperative to raise awareness about RSD/CRPS."

To obtain more information on RSD, you may visit www.rsds.org.