A PATHWAY TO HOPE
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition characterized by severe, prolonged pain that is vastly out of proportion to an initial injury. Believed to be caused by a malfunction of the nervous system, CRPS can cause debilitating pain and visible changes in the affected limb. Living with CRPS can be an isolating and overwhelming experience. We want you to know that we understand this complex condition. Our specialized, multi-disciplinary approach focuses on early diagnosis and aggressive, advanced treatments to calm the nervous system, manage pain, and restore function.
TRIGGERS
While the exact cause is not fully understood, CRPS almost always develops in a limb following some form of trauma, which is believed to trigger an abnormal response from the nervous system.
The most common trigger. CRPS often develops after a sprain, crush injury, or fracture in an arm or leg, even if the initial injury seemed minor.
Operations on a limb, such as carpal tunnel surgery, foot surgery, or knee arthroscopy, can sometimes precede the onset of CRPS.
Less frequently, CRPS can be triggered after a heart attack or a stroke, which can have widespread effects on the nervous system.
Having a limb immobilized in a cast or sling for an extended period has been identified as a potential contributing factor in some cases.
RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS
CRPS is characterized by a combination of intense, unrelenting pain and visible physical changes in the affected limb that are far more severe than the initial injury would suggest.
A continuous and intense pain that is disproportionate to the initial injury, often described as a deep, "on fire" burning sensation.
Pain caused by a stimulus that shouldn't be painful, such as the light touch of clothing, a breeze, or water from a shower.
The affected limb may change color (blotchy, purple, pale, red), feel noticeably warmer or cooler than the other limb, and appear shiny or sweaty.
Significant, often pitting, swelling in the affected limb that leads to severe joint stiffness and difficulty with movement.
There may be noticeable changes in the growth of hair and nails on the affected limb, which may grow either unusually fast or slow.
Over time, the difficulty in moving the limb due to pain and stiffness can lead to significant muscle wasting (atrophy) and weakness.
The intense, unrelenting pain of CRPS can feel isolating and hopeless. We want you to know that you are not alone, and we understand this condition. Early, aggressive, and specialized treatment is key. Contact us to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and start your journey toward reclaiming your life from pain.