So it’s time you started getting in tune with your body. What does that mean? Pain is a signal for you to pay attention and tune into the here and now. Try to live in the moment and realize that your body needs you to pay attention!

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a debilitating illness and it plays havoc on your body. There are many alternatives to the way in which we can respond to what is going on. So let’s get comfortable, as best you can.

Learn to become more aware of what is truly taking place within your own body. Keeping a diary or a pain journal is a good way for you to follow how you are doing and look back at what you’ve done. Most of us cannot begin to remember all of the different things that we experience daily from this chronic condition, so start writing and reading your own journal. After all, it’s your story. A diary or pain journal is a great asset when you go to your health care providers and various therapy appointments. The National Pain Foundation has an area on its site for you to keep a personal pain journal that can help you record your thoughts, your pain levels and your strategies for coping.

A journal also helps you become aware of the variety of movements, positions and activities that disrupt your well-being. Learning how to cope with them will take time and patience. Your central nervous system is in a state of terror and it’s on a heightened state of alert. Each of us will respond differently to the medicines and treatments we try. Our bodies are totally interconnected, like fine-tuned computers, but CRPS has our systems going haywire. We can try some common remedies and consider how we can react.

For example, if any part of your body is cold, has a spasm or ache, or is stiff and tight, immersing yourself in some warm water can help you change the way your body feels. I take a hot water bottle with me when I travel and fill it up with warm water. It keeps me warm and cozy for hours. You can fill the bottle about half way and squeeze the extra air out before you close it up; this allows the bottle to be positioned more comfortably around your body.

Soaking in a bath with Epsom salt relaxes me and gives me some relief as well. I also use a moist-heat, electric heating pad on many different areas of my body. Heat is very soothing and can help loosen up stiff, tightened muscles. A paraffin wax machine is another way to warm up some stiff and tight hands and feet.

Some of us are sensitive to the touch of objects around us, so realize that you need to compromise with your own body. Using pillows or very soft pieces of foam can help you position yourself for comfort. There are many stores and places on the Internet where you can purchase a variety of items that can bring you some much-needed comfort. Sometimes, we may get in a rut — we are used to certain things and we do not realize that there are other options. It’s all about changing the pattern and trying something new. Try different items for your comfort needs, whether it’s a pillow, a relaxation CD or aromatherapy. Take these comfort items with you wherever you go. After all, CRPS knows no boundaries!

The clothes that we wear are made of many different textures of fabric. Experiment and find out what feels good on your body. I have discovered that with the extreme sensitivity from CRPS, I am more comfortable in softer fabrics. Surround yourself with clothing, towels and bedding that help you feel more comfortable. Some of your body’s responses to the environment in which you live can be adjusted by making simple changes that help you relax and make you more comfortable. Your body will communicate with you if you listen, but listening to your body takes practice.

Learning to live and get somewhat comfortable with CRPS requires your continued involvement and attention. Becoming aware and tuning into your body’s signals will help you on your path to healing.