What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

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Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a sympathetic nervous system disorder characterized by severe, chronic pain. The sympathetic nervous system is in charge of regulating involuntary functions of the body, such as increasing heart rate and blood pressure. The excessive or abnormal responses of the sympathetic nervous system are thought to cause the pain associated with this disorder.

Many experts believe that CRPS is a result of nerve damage to the sympathetic nervous system. There are numerous identified factors that contribute to it, including trauma, surgery, infection, or paralysis on one side of the body. However, in approximately 30 percent of cases, there is no cause found. The most complex part of complex regional pain syndrome is that scientists overall do not understand why such intense chronic pain evolves from relatively minor trauma.

Symptoms range from a wide variety of things and vary for everyone in severity and duration. Pain, swelling, and noticeable changes in temperature and hypersensitivity usually occur first. Some other symptoms include continuous burning or throbbing pain, changes in skin color and temperature, and decreased ability to move the affected body part.

Currently, there is no certain test for CRPS. This is challenging because physicians must start by eliminating all other possible conditions before reaching a conclusion. Diagnosis is typically based on a person’s medical history, as well as signs and symptoms that match the definition. Since other conditions can cause similar symptoms, careful examination is important to rule out all other options.

Similar to most chronic pain conditions, treatment is most effective when started early. Although there is no cure for CRPS, proper treatment will relieve painful symptoms associated with the disorder. If detected and diagnosed early enough, major improvements and even remission are possible. If not diagnosed or treated at all, it has the potential to progress toward more disabling and severe symptoms.

CRPS is confusing, because it isn’t entirely understood yet. Although experts have their beliefs, the exact cause is not yet clear and there is no definite means of testing. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is working to study new ways of treating CRPS and intervening more aggressively to limit the symptoms and disability associated with the syndrome.

If you believe you are seeing signs or experiencing symptoms of CRPS, do not hesitate to take action. Ask your physican for a referral Dr. Heath Fallin or refer yourself by calling 252-286-0153 in order to find the best means of pain management.

Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20371151
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Complex-Regional-Pain-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12085-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps
https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy-syndrome/