LIVED EXPERIENCE with COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME (CRPS) Initial sporting injury leads to neurological pain: Implanted spinal cord stimulator restores quality of life
With
Lachlan Thorpe, Age 21
Diagnosed with CRPS following sporting injury
The Hon Courtney Houssos MLC, Minister for Finance,
Minister for Domestic Manufacturing and Government Procurement,
Minister for Natural Resources, NSW Parliament
LIVED EXPERIENCE SEGMENT
Filmed in Sydney | August 2026
Lachlan Thorpe has shared his experience of living with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), highlighting the profound impact the condition had on his life and the difference medical technology has made to his recovery.
In an interview with the Australian Health Journal, Thorpe explained that his CRPS developed following an ankle injury sustained while playing rugby for Sydney University Rugby Club in late 2024. After undergoing surgery and rehabilitation for the injury, he began experiencing severe pain, swelling and sensitivity despite there being no further orthopaedic damage.
The condition is relatively poorly understood and can cause ongoing pain without an obvious physical cause, meaning diagnosis of CRPS is challenging.
Thorpe described the experience as isolating, saying, “you can’t really see it when I’m wearing a shoe or anything”, while explaining how everyday activities became difficult.
After trying oral medications, infusions and injections without achieving lasting relief, Thorpe was referred to a pain management specialist and underwent a spinal cord stimulation trial. The trial produced immediate relief, allowing him to walk, wear shoes and swim again.
Following implantation of the spinal cord stimulator in March 2026, Thorpe was able to finish university, return to full-time work and resume many activities he had previously been unable to do.
Reflecting on the technology’s impact, he said, “Ultimately, this device has enabled me to take life back into my own hands.” While he cannot return to rugby or contact sports, Thorpe hopes sharing his story will raise awareness of CRPS and the potential of medical technology to transform lives.
Source: Adapted from transcript using AI
Media access credit: Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA), NSW MedTech Showcase Event, August 2026
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