Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a rare chronic neuro-inflammatory disorder which occurs when the nervous system and the immune system malfunction as they respond to tissue damage from trauma. The nerves misfire, sending constant pain signals to the brain. CRPS generally follows a musculoskeletal injury, a nerve injury, surgery or immobilization.
Although CRPS can affect anyone, it is more common in women with a recent increase in the number of children and adolescents who are diagnosed.
It has been shown that early diagnosis is generally the key to better outcomes. However, diagnosing CRPS is not a simple matter because there is no single diagnostic tool for this condition. Physicians diagnose it based on patient history, clinical examination, and laboratory results. Physicians must rule out any other condition that would otherwise account for the degree of pain and dysfunction before considering CRPS. Diagnosis is further complicated by the fact that symptoms of CRPS tend to come and go. As a result, patients often search for months or even years before gaining a definitive diagnosis.
Unfortunately, treatment for CRPS may be difficult because there isn’t one treatment that works for everyone. Most treatments and medications were developed to treat other chronic pain syndromes. However, treatment methods are continuously evolving as research and clinical practice provides new evidence and insights. No matter the treatment, the team approach to treatment is crucial to managing pain and restoring function.
Treatments for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome:
Tips for Managing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: