Rep. O'Brien offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 160. 

            A resolution to declare November 2011 as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome

Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

            Whereas, Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RSDS), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is a debilitating and progressively chronic condition characterized by severe burning pain, pathological changes in bone and skin, excessive sweating, tissue swelling, and extreme sensitivity to touch; and

            Whereas, While RSDS is thought to be a nerve disorder that generally occurs at the site of a minor or major trauma injury, it may also occur without an apparent injury to the afflicted

person; and

            Whereas, The causes of RSDS are unknown, the syndrome is thought to be the result of a malfunction of the sympathetic nervous system. RSDS is often misdiagnosed because this condition is either unknown or is poorly understood. The disorder is unique in that it simultaneously affects the nerves, skin, muscles, blood vessels, and bones; and

            Whereas, The prognosis for patients suffering from RSDS is generally much better when the condition is identified and treated as early as possible, ideally within three months of the onset of the first symptoms; and

            Whereas, If treatment is delayed, the disorder can quickly lead to changes in bone and muscle and may become irreversible, resulting in limited mobility, atrophy of the muscles, and eventual disability and unemployment of patients; and

            Whereas, A delay in diagnosis or treatment for this syndrome can result in severe physical and physiological problems, and early recognition and prompt treatment of RSDS provide the greatest opportunity for recovery; and

            Whereas, It is in the best interest of the state to educate both individuals and medical professionals regarding this debilitative disease and to promote research to accurately identify, diagnose, and treat this disease; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare November 2011 as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.