Late diagnosis is often a significant contributor to the problems experienced by RSD/CRPS sufferers. Experience suggests that the first three months after onset is the best "window of opportunity" to defeat this disease. Thereafter it is much harder. Whilst this has not been scientifically explained, it is possible that the problems of late diagnosis relate to the patient becoming habituated to the pain. The painful limb may have been protected and scarcely used for a long period, and non-use creates its own problems in muscles and joints. Some patients have achieved a good level of recovery despite suffering for 2-3 years before beginning proper treatment regime. So, if you have been diagnosed late, that is a problem, but it does not make your condition hopeless.
Derrick Phillips - Editor of RSD Alert