What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS):

• A chronic pain condition most often affecting one limb.
• Typically occurs after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack.
• The exact cause is not well understood.
  
  

Symptoms may include:

• Prolonged severe pain.
• Swelling.
• Changes in skin color, temperature, and texture.
• Impaired motor function in the affected area.
  
  

Diagnosis often involves:

• A physical examination.
• Patient history.
• Possible imaging tests.
• Possible nerve conduction studies.
• Possible sympathetic nervous system tests.
  
  

Treatment approaches can include:

• Conservative Treatments:
  
  • Physical therapy.
  • Psychotherapy.
  • Medication for pain and inflammation.
  • Nerve-block medications.
• Interventional Treatments:
  
  • Nerve blocks.
  • Spinal cord stimulation.
  • Peripheral nerve stimulation.
  • Intrathecal drug pumps.
    
    

Overall goals of management are to:

• Reduce pain.
• Improve function.
• Maintain quality of life.