15 thoughtful gifts for someone with CRPS

Finding the right gift for someone with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can be difficult. CRPS can cause severe pain, swelling, fatigue, reduced mobility and extreme sensitivity to touch or changes in temperature. Symptoms also vary from person to person, meaning that something comforting for one person may be uncomfortable for another. The most helpful gifts are often those that improve comfort, reduce physical effort or make difficult flare days a little easier. Here are 15 thoughtful gift ideas for someone living with CRPS.

1. Loose joggers and sweatshirts
 Soft, loose-fitting clothing can be particularly helpful for someone with CRPS because tight waistbands and fabric brushing against the skin may cause discomfort. Joggers and sweatshirts can provide warmth and comfort without feeling too restrictive. Comfortable clothing can also be worn in bed on days when pain or fatigue makes getting changed difficult. Look for breathable fabrics, soft waistbands, minimal seams and loose cuffs. There are plenty of options online, but the Burning Nights hoodie is comfortable and reasonably priced, you can find it here.
 
2. A mindfulness app subscription
 Living with persistent pain can be mentally and emotionally exhausting. A subscription to a mindfulness app can give someone access to guided meditation, breathing exercises, sleep stories and relaxation sessions whenever they need them. Mindfulness will not remove CRPS pain, but some people find that it helps them manage stress, pace their activities and cope with difficult flare-ups.  Headspace  is one popular option. At the time of writing, its monthly subscription costs £9.99, while an annual subscription is £49.99. Alternatively, the Smiling Mind app is free of charge. 
 
3. A flare-day care package 
A personalised flare-day care package can provide comfort when someone is experiencing increased pain, fatigue or limited mobility. Fill a basket or gift box with items they can enjoy without needing to leave the sofa or bed.
You could include their favourite snacks, bottled drinks, lip balm, fuzzy socks, a gentle face mask and an easy activity such as colouring, puzzles or a small craft kit. Putting the package together yourself makes it personal, but ready-made self-care boxes are also available online, you can also purchase a Burning Nights self-care package here. Check that any scented or skincare products are suitable, as some people with CRPS are sensitive to smells or touch.

4. A grabber or reaching tool
A lightweight grabber allows someone to pick up objects without having to bend down, stretch awkwardly or place additional pressure on a painful limb,  Although it may not seem like the most glamorous gift, it can make everyday tasks much easier and help someone maintain their independence- look for a lightweight model with a comfortable handle that does not require a strong grip, Collapsible versions are particularly useful because they can be kept in a bag and taken on trips. Basic collapsible grabbers can be found online for around £7.50, although prices vary.
 
5. Compression socks
Some people find that compression socks provide support, warmth or relief when spending time on their feet. They may also be helpful for people who already use compression garments as part of their existing symptom-management routine. However, pressure from compression socks can aggravate pain or skin sensitivity in some people with CRPS, so they should only be gifted when you know the person already wears them or has been advised that compression is suitable. The Compression Sock Shop offers a variety of colours, patterns and styles. Its website also allows you to filter products according to the required level of compression. Make sure you know the correct size and compression level before buying.

6. Magnesium bath salts
A warm bath can be a comforting way to relax after a difficult day, and magnesium bath salts can make the experience feel even more luxurious. Bath salts are also an affordable present that can be added to a larger self-care package. However, CRPS can affect temperature regulation and skin sensitivity. Some people may find hot water, strong fragrances or certain bath products uncomfortable. Before purchasing bath salts, check that the recipient enjoys baths and can safely tolerate warm water and scented products. Magnesium bath salts are widely available in supermarkets, pharmacies and online, with affordable bags often being less than £5.
 
7. An oil diffuser
An oil diffuser can help create a peaceful atmosphere in the bedroom or living room. Scents such as lavender are often used as part of a calming bedtime routine, which may be appreciated by someone whose pain makes it difficult to relax or sleep. Diffusers can also provide a gentle sensory activity that does not require much physical effort as some include soft lighting, timers and adjustable mist settings. However, fragrance can trigger headaches, nausea or sensory discomfort, so check whether the recipient already enjoys essential oils and opt for subtle scents rather than heavily scented blends.
 
8. Supportive shoes
 Comfortable and supportive shoes can make an enormous difference to someone who experiences pain and swelling in their feet and legs. Shoes with cushioning and adjustable fastenings may be easier to put on and can accommodate changes in swelling throughout the day.  Look for lightweight shoes with wide openings, flexible materials and Velcro or zip fastenings. Slip-on shoes may also be helpful when bending down or tying laces is difficult. If you cannot decide or do not know what shoes suit their needs, you can grab them a gift card.
 
9. A weighted blanket
Some people find the gentle pressure of a weighted blanket calming and reassuring and it may help people feel settled when relaxing or trying to sleep. However, CRPS can cause allodynia, where light touch or pressure feels extremely painful, so a weighted blanket could make symptoms worse for some people so only purchase one when you know the recipient already tolerates and enjoys weighted products. Gravity Blankets offer several sizes and weights, allowing you to choose an option that suits your person. A lightweight version may be preferable for someone trying one for the first time.  A lightweight version may be preferable for someone trying one for the first time. 
 
10. A notebook to journal in
A journal can provide a private place to record emotions and just to process the day. It can also be used for gratitude exercises, mindfulness exercises or even some creative writing. Choose a notebook that opens flat and does not require the user to have a strong grip, maybe even include a lightweight pen with a wide and comfortable grip! 
 

11. Hand warmers
People with CRPS can experience changes in the temperature of an affected limb, including in their hands. Reusable hand warmers help fight these temperature changes when travelling, sitting outside or waiting for an appointment.  Look for warmers that are small, lightweight and easy to activate. Rechargeable hand warmers with adjustable temperature settings can give your person greater control, while reusable gel warmers are an affordable alternative. Heat can worsen symptoms for some people, so check that the recipient finds warmth helpful before buying. 
 
12. Help with housework or laundry
Practical help can sometimes be more valuable than a physical present. Tasks such as vacuuming, changing bedding, carrying laundry and cleaning the bathroom may become extremely difficult during a CRPS flare-up. Offer to complete a specific task rather than simply saying, “Let me know if you need anything.” For example, you could offer to change their bedding, take a load of washing home or clean the kitchen on a particular afternoon. You could also pay for a professional cleaner or laundry service. Removing one tiring task allows the person to conserve their limited energy for work, appointments, hobbies or spending time with loved ones.
 
13. An adjustable lap desk or bed tray
An adjustable lap desk or bed tray can make it easier to eat, read, write or use a laptop from the sofa or bed during a flare up when moving is not on the cards. Look for a tray with adjustable legs, a tilting surface and enough space for a drink or phone. Cushioned lap desks may be comfortable for some people, whilst others may prefer a tray that does not rest directly on their body. Remember to check the product’s weight before buying because a heavy tray may be difficult for someone with painful arms or reduced grip strength to move.
 
14. A soft and cosy blanket
 A soft blanket provides warmth and comfort. Texture is especially important for someone with CRPS so make sure to choose a smooth, lightweight and breathable material without scratchy labels, tassels or decorative stitching. Baby blankets can be a good option because they are often designed to be really soft against sensitive skin. 
 

15. Easy-grip kitchen tools
 Cooking can be difficult when gripping, twisting or lifting causes pain. Here is where Jar openers, electric tin openers, lightweight utensils and automatic corkscrews can reduce the amount of strength needed for common kitchen tasks. Other helpful options include easy-grip peelers, non-slip chopping boards, lightweight cups and devices that help open ring-pull cans. These products can make meal preparation safer and help someone continue doing tasks independently. Many kitchenware shops and online sites offer a wide range of accessible kitchen tools.  
 
The best gift will depend on where the person experiences CRPS and what sensations they can tolerate. When in doubt, ask what would make their daily routine easier- and remember that practical help and understanding are often the most meaningful gifts of all.