The month of November is National CRPS (Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome) Awareness month. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines CRPS as “a chronic pain condition most often affecting one of the limbs (arms, legs, hands, or feet), usually after an injury or trauma to that limb. CRPS is believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of, the peripheral and central nervous systems. The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system involves nerve signaling from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. CRPS is characterized by prolonged or excessive pain and mild or dramatic changes in skin color, temperature, and/or swelling in the affected area."

In honor of this awareness month I was thrilled to interview Joey Aquilino. He is living with CRPS and has become an outspoken advocate for those living with CRPS. It was so refreshing to hear an honest and very real account of what it is like to navigate the healthcare system when you have "something" wrong and you are in pain.

In this episode we talk about:

* Joey's journey from initial injury to diagnosis of CRPS (it took a long time!).

* How CRPS affected him emotionally as well as physically.

* The steps and techniques he used to reduce depression and get moving.

* Why he became an advocate for those living with CRPS

* How his ordeal resulted in him finding himself and his passion.

* The #JGF family and his Blogtalkradio shows

* Plus much, much more!

I loved this episode because I think it is so important to get the patient perspective, especially with complex diagnoses like CRPS. A diagnosis like this goes so far beyond the time we spend with the patient during our sessions. Joey gives such an open and honest account of what he has gone through over the past several years and it is a great reminder for all healthcare providers who work with people in pain that you need to take the time to listen to the whole story!

A big thank you to Joey for sharing and to you for listening!

Have a great week and stay healthy, wealthy and smart!

Karen