Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that affects the limbs, typically the arms or legs. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature. A diagnosis is typically made based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. Treatment options include physical therapy, medications, sympathetic nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and intrathecal drug delivery (IDD). Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercise, stress reduction, rest and support can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome ?

The exact cause of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be related to an abnormal response of the nervous system to an injury or trauma, such as a broken bone, sprain, or surgery. The injury triggers an abnormal response in the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the body's response to injury or stress. The body's immune system may also play a role in the development of CRPS. Some research suggests that there may be a genetic component to the condition, as it tends to run in families. However, more research is needed to fully understand the causes of CRPS.

What are symptoms of CRPS?

• Severe pain, which may be described as burning, aching, or stabbing
• Swelling and stiffness of the affected limb
• Changes in skin color and temperature, such as redness, warmth, or paleness
• Changes in skin texture, such as thinning or thickening
• Increased sensitivity to touch and temperature
• Changes in nail and hair growth
• Weakness or loss of function in the affected limb

How is CRPS diagnosed?

There is no specific test for CRPS, so a diagnosis is typically made based on the patient's symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also perform a physical examination and conduct tests such as X-rays, MRI, or bone scans to rule out other conditions.

What are the treatment options for CRPS?

Treatment for CRPS can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's individual needs. Some common treatment options include:

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent muscle wasting in the affected limb.
• Medications: Pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antidepressants, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to manage pain.
• Sympathetic nerve blocks: These are injections of local anesthetics and/or steroids that can block the sympathetic nerves that contribute to the pain and swelling associated with CRPS.
• Spinal cord stimulation: This procedure involves the implantation of a small device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord to block pain signals.
• Intrathecal drug delivery (IDD): This procedure uses a small pump implanted under the skin to deliver pain-relieving medication directly to the spinal cord.

The goal of treatment is to reduce pain and improve your quality of life. 

To learn more about complex regional pain syndrome, call Bellevue Pain and Wellness at (425)-998-7884 or schedule an appointment online today.