“ Remember RSD is not all in your head.” It is all over your body. It starts from one extremity or one part of the body and if not properly treated, it spreads to other parts of the body. Don’t let anybody convince you to be treated excluively by a psychiatrist or to learn to live with your pain. Just remeber you are not crazy. The pain of RSD is enough to drive anybody out of their mind, but what I admire is the fact that RSD patients still keep their sanity. ― Hooshang Hooshmand, M.D.
RSD-CRPS BOOKS
This section of our website we will post some very helpful and informative information regarding RSD/CRPS textbooks and manuals written by doctors and patients.
If you have written a book regarding RSD-CRPS and would like us to post information about your book on this website please contact Eric at: utopia33@prodigy.net
BOOKS WRITTEN BY: DOCTOR HOOSHANG HOOSHMAND
CHRONIC PAIN: REFLEX SYMPATHETIC DYSTROPHY PREVENTION and MANAGEMENT
H. Hooshmand, M.D.
Neurological Associates Pain Management Center
Chronic Pain: Reflex sympathetic Dystrophy Prevention and Management is the first book devoted to the subject of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). The book presents a new classification for the different stages of RSD and features the most comprehensive coverage of the literature on RSD and its related aspects. Qualitative and quantitative differences between natural endorphins and synthetic narcotics are described for the first time, as are long-term follow-ups on sympathectomy patients. Other topics considered include thermographic methods for the diagnosis of RSD, the role of ACTH in the management of chronic pain, and comparisons between the effects of ACTH and those of corticosteroids. The mechanism of development of RSD is clarified through an extensive collection of drawings and anatomical pictures.
This book also explains why sympathectomy fails, but nerve block and physiotherapy are successful in the treatment of RSD.
Chronic Pain: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Prevention and Management is an important reference for neurologists, neurosurgeons, physiatrists, thermographers, anesthesiologists, orthopedic surgeons, interns, and students interested in the topic.
For more information regarding Dr. Hooshmand’s book, please click on the following link to view this information in PDF-format.
NEUROLOGIC COMPLICATIONS OF ELECTRICAL INJURY: A STUDY OF 984 PATIENTS
Hooshang Hooshmand, M.D., and Eric M. Phillips
Between 1990 and 1998, Doctor Hooshmand and I started a book project on the Neurologic Complications of Electrical Injury: A Study of 984 Patients.
This project has been waiting in the wings for completion for many years. I have finally taken the time to complete this important book project.
Electrical injuries and injuries from lightning strikes are quite prevalent, serious, and can even be fatal.
Patients who have suffered electrical injuries or lightning strikes often experience symptoms associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), a condition characterized by chronic pain and autonomic dysfunction. The diagnosis of RSD in these individuals presents a significant challenge for healthcare providers due to the intricate nature of the symptoms and the overlap with other potential complications arising from such traumatic injuries.
Doctor Hooshmand always emphasized the importance of understanding and recognizing the effects of electrical injuries and lightning strike injuries can cause to the victims of these types of injuries.
Doctor Hooshmand consistently highlighted the critical need to comprehend and acknowledge the profound impacts that electrical injuries and lightning strike incidents can have on patients. He believed that a thorough understanding of these injuries is essential not only for effective treatment but also for prevention and education.
Doctor Hooshmand dedicated a significant portion of his medical practice to treating patients affected by electrical injuries and lightning strikes, committing his life to support those suffering from these severe injuries. He strongly advocated for the education of both his patients and fellow medical professionals regarding the intricate nature of such injuries, emphasizing the importance of understanding their complexities.
I am truly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Doctor Hooshmand on this important project over the years. It has been a rewarding experience to contribute to the completion of this book, which serves as a testament to his dedication and enthusiasm for his work. The process of bringing his insights and passion to a wider audience has been both fulfilling and enlightening, and I take pride in having played a role in sharing his valuable contributions with others.
I sincerely hope that this book proves to be a valuable resource for you, offering insights and information that can enhance your understanding and knowledge about the effects of electrical injuries and lightning strike injuries.
Thank you,
Eric
DON’T DIET: CHANGE YOUR HABITS-PROPER EATING FOR GOOD HEALTH
H. Hooshmand, M.D., and Eric M. Phillips
On February 26, 2000, Doctor Hooshmand and I started a book project about diet, hoping it would assist his patients suffering from RSD-CRPS.
He wanted to help inform his patients, so they could experience a healthier lifestyle while they were coping with their chronic pain.
Doctor Hooshmand always emphasized that changing you’re eating habits remains a healthier and more sensible choice; instead of relying on the latest fad diets. He believed that following a healthy diet along with exercise (if you can exercise) can help promote a healthier lifestyle.
This book is not solely for people living in chronic pain; it is for anyone who wants to change their eating habits and maintain a more exceptional quality of life.
I am appreciative to have worked on this significant project with Doctor Hooshmand over the years. I am pleased that I have ultimately completed this book to share his work and passion.
I hope this book will give some beneficial information to you. Happy reading!
Enjoy!
Eric
BOOKS WRITTEN BY: ERIC M. PHILLIPS
COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME(CRPS):
LEARNING ABOUT THE DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF A PAINFUL SYNDROME - Volumes- I-VIII
I have authored an eight-volume book series about the different aspects of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), which was formerly referred to as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). CRPS is a poorly understood syndrome by the medical community and the public. CRPS affects millions of people worldwide. CRPS is a complex disease to understand, diagnose, and treat, and can affect men, women, and children. The causes of CRPS vary from person to person, and each person is affected differently by the syndrome. I hope this book will help educate the medical community, the public, and other CRPS sufferers, as well as promote more awareness about CRPS.
These books are available through Amazon Books.
Please click on the link below to order these books from Amazon.com
BOOKS WRITTEN BY: DOCTOR ALAA ABD-ELSAYED and ERIC M. PHILLIPS
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS):
Patients’ Perspective of Living in Chronic Pain
Volumes I-VII
By: Dr. Alaa Abd-Elsayed and Eric M. Phillips
Doctor Alaa Abd-Elsayed and Eric M. Phillips, have recognized the importance of promoting awareness and education on the topic of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). They have co-authored authored an eight-volume book series titled: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Patients’ Perspective of Living in Chronic Pain, continues with patients sharing stories of their daily struggles with CRPS.
CRPS affects millions of people worldwide. The disease causes patients to suffer from constant chronic pain after minor trauma or surgery. The purpose of this book series is to share the stories of how CRPS impacts the lives of patients.
We hope that these stories will enlighten how CRPS disrupts the patient’s life on many levels, from having family issues, social issues, financial distress, and how the medical community treats these patients. It is our hope this book will help educate the public, the medical community, and promote more awareness about CRPS.
These books are available through Amazon Books.
Please click on the link below to order these books from Amazon.com
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RBDY7GN?binding=paperback&ref=dbs_dp_rwt_sb_pc_tpbk
CRPS PICTURE eBOOKS
COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME (CRPS):
A PATIENT’S PICTURE eBOOK GUIDE
VOLUMES I-IV
By: Dr. Alaa Abd-Elsayed and Eric M. Phillips
CRPS is a painful disease that affects the patient physically, mentally, and emotionally. To obtain a complete understanding of this disease, one must view the pictures of what can potentially happen to some patients.
These eBook helps illustrate how patients suffer from the pain of CRPS. Until a doctor, relative, or friend sees the damage that CRPS causes, one cannot comprehend the pain patients deal with daily. These pictures you will view ranging from the early stages of the disease to the end-stage of the disease.
The purpose of this CRPS Picture eBook Guide-Volumes I-IV is to supplement the books: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Patients’ Perspective of Living in Chronic Pain- Volumes I-ICRPS is a painful disease that affects the patient physically, mentally, and emotionally. To obtain a complete understanding of this disease, one must view the pictures of what can potentially happen to some patients.
This eBook helps illustrate how patients suffer from the pain of CRPS. Until a doctor, relative, or friend sees the damage that CRPS causes, one cannot comprehend the pain patients deal with daily. These pictures you will view ranging from the early stages of the disease to the end-stage of the disease.
The purpose of this CRPS Picture eBook Guide-Volume II is to supplement the second book: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Patients’ Perspective of Living in Chronic Pain- Volume I-IV.
We thought this idea was the best solution to share all the pictures from each story of the book.
We feel that showing these pictures will help complete the patient’s story and it gives a clear picture of what damage CRPS can cause.
Each chapter in this eBook will have a short abstract of what happened to the patient, along with their pictures.
Remember, "A picture is worth a thousand words."
*Please note: Some of these pictures published in these eBook can be of a disturbing nature to some people.
This eBook is free if you have Kindle Unlimited.
Please click on the following links to view information about these eBook.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08655F5V5?ref_=dbs_mng_crcw_1&storeType=ebooks
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08D85C2SM?ref_=dbs_mng_crcw_2&storeType=ebooks
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YN7Y445?ref_=dbs_mng_crcw_3&storeType=ebooks
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09N6TLQF4?ref_=dbs_mng_crcw_0&storeType=ebooks
BOOKS WRITTEN BY: DOCTOR ALAA ABD-ELSAYED
CHRONIC PAIN: THE PATIENT AND FAMILY JOURNEY
ALAA ABD-ELSAYED MD, MPH
I decided to edit this book to guide chronic pain patients and their family members to the available options for treating pain. I was inspired by my patients and their loved ones who show up to my clinic telling me their story and journey living with pain and the impact of their pain. Some patients spend years searching for answers for their pain with no success; when they show up for their first visit with me and I start educating them on their options.
I hope that this book will be helpful to you.
Regards,
Dr. Al
For more information about this book please click on the following link below:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1791772714/ref=sr_1_27?ie=UTF8&qid=1545199117&sr=8-27&keywords=Abd-Elsayed
IF THE SAVIOR IS NOT SAFE HOW CAN HE SAVE?: The challenges facing physicians today
ALAA ABD-ELSAYED MD, MPH
For more information about this book please click on the following link below:
BOOK WRITTEN BY: ELLEN G. WATTAY, P.T., Ph.D
A MANUAL FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND
TREATMENT OF REFLEX SYMPATHETIC DYSTROPHY CRPS-I
ELLEN G. WATTAY, P.T. Ph.D
As a physical therapist, I feel I speak for many of my profession when I say, we do not only treat the physical and rehabilitation problems of our patients. We are frequently the ONLY contact a patient has that lends a shoulder or an ear. We MUST listen and respond. Many times, a day I hear problems of stress and anxiety, and problems of pain…intense pain. We must address all of the patient’s symptoms, but when pain becomes the priority, we must be especially receptive. Too many physicians and health care specialists tell patients, “Your pain is in your head.” “You couldn’t be in that much pain.”
In dealing with intractable pain a team approach is the ideal. The most ideal is a setting, which offers a neurologist, physical therapist, psychiatrist, an occupational therapist, a sociologist and associated staff. In dealing with RSD, a competent anesthesiologist is a very important team member.
Since the best outcome of RSD relies on early diagnosis, I feel that the physical therapist will frequently be the first person to “pick-up” on the patient’s complaints and symptoms. I feel this is particularly true in a practice setting where a patient is referred immediately after a cast is removed, after a surgical procedure, or initial injury has occurred.
Many situations do not offer this ideal team set up. Physicians may be practicing in small towns or outlying area, therapist are not always associated with large rehabilitation centers, clinics or hospitals. Ortho specialists may be available but not necessarily associated directly with physicians or therapists. No matter what the circumstances, communication between those specialists dealing with a pain patient should be established and maintained.
Ellen G. Wattay, P.T., Ph.D
For more information regarding Dr. Wattay’s book please contact Eric Phillips at: utopia33@prodigy.net
BOOK WRITTEN BY: MARY JANE GONZALES
Sharing the Pain... The RSD Interviews
By: Mary Jane Gonzales
In Sharing the Pain...The RSD Interviews, an informative book that is sure to enlighten the public, Gonzales conducts fifty interviews of RSDS/CRPS patients, giving readers a glimpse into the struggles of both the patients and their families. Their struggles will astonish you and their strength will astound you.
Foreword By: Eric M. Phillips
Author, Mary Jane Gonzales, is an RSD advocate, having been an RSD sufferer for 28 years. Her latest book, entitled Sharing the pain. The RSD Interviews, is a great compilation of stories and poems written by RSD patients. This book will give the reader a great insight into how patients have developed their RSD, and how they have coped and have lived their lives with this very unrelenting disease we call Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). Some patients in this book have developed RSD from the following type of injuries or surgeries: venipuncture (i.v. needle injury), broken bones, infections, crush injuries, falls, back/foot/hand surgeries, car accidents, and work -related accidents.
Patients who are newly diagnosed with RSD, along with their families, will benefit a great deal from reading this book. The book will also give patients and their families the feeling that they are not alone in dealing with this awful disease.
By reading these remarkable stories it will give the reader a sense that this disease is not in the patients head and that RSD is a very real disease. The readers will feel a great sense of support in each and every story in this book.
As an RSD sufferer for over 27 years, I have seen a lot in my many years of helping other RSD patients and dealing with RSD myself. The main thing I have learned over the years is that we all have one thing in common, the chronic pain of RSD. I have seen how this disease can change a persons life in the blink of an eye as it did to me after a car accident on December 7, 1985.
Another thing that I have learned from my mentor and best friend, H. Hooshmand, M.D., is tha the Truth is the only survivor when it comes to RSD. This book shows the truth from the patients view of dealing with this unrelenting disease. As Dr. Hooshmand would say, most patients know more about their disease than most doctors do. That is why every RSD patient should take the time to read this very informative book.
Reading these stories will make you feel sad or make you want to cry, but they will also make you feel that you are not alone in this very small world that we live in.
RSD is a very difficult disease to deal with in life. People cope with RSD in many different ways. Some people deal with it through faith, music, support from another RSD patient, or family and friends. Having a book like this is a great tool to help patients and their families cope with the problems that arise from living with the monster we call RSD.
In conclusion, the purpose of this book is to help patients tell their stories, inform the readers that we all share a common bond through this awful disease and raise public awareness, as well. The readers of this book will learn that RSD can happen to anyone and lives can literally be changed in the blink of an eye.
Eric M. Phillips, President and Founder of The International RSD Foundation, Lakeville, MA
For more information regarding Mary Jane’s book please click on the following link below:
https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/sharing-the-pain-the-rsd-interviews
In the Blink of an Eye
By: Mary Jane Gonzales
In the Blink of an Eye, gives the reader a great insight into how RSD changes a persons life.
For more information regarding Mary Jane’s book please click on the following link below:
Medifocus Guide to Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
This guide is a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED resource for the person with RSD. Each guide has current and relevant RSD research organized into categories for easy reading.
Free updates are provided for 1 year.
The Medifocus Guide also provides an international RSD physician finder.
It’s must have!
Please click on the following link for more information about this helpful guide:
https://wp.medifocus.com/product/reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy/
CRPS Song
I would like to share with everyone a wonderful song about CRPS written and performed by a very talented fellow CRPS patient Jenny Casey. To hear Jenny’s song and get more information about her CD, please click on the following links:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=jF005tpynFs
https://www.jennycasey.com/store
I hope you will enjoy listening to Jenny’s song as much as I do. Thank you, Jenny for writing such a wonderful song! Eric
contact
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Last update: May 21, 2026
Celebrating our 30th Year Online Helping RSD-CRPS Patients (1996-2026)
