CRPS AWARENESS

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating chronic pain condition, usually in an arm or leg, that develops after an injury, surgery, or stroke, causing disproportionately severe pain, extreme sensitivity (even to light touch), swelling, stiffness, and skin/temperature changes, often with early, aggressive treatment (like physio, nerve blocks, meds) crucial for recovery.

SYMPTOMS

• Pain: Severe, burning, disproportionate to the injury, worsened by touch or temperature
• Sensitivity: Extreme sensitivity to touch, light, or temperature changes (allodynia/hyperalgesia).
• Swelling & Temperature: Swelling, redness (warm), or paleness/blueness (cool) in the limb
• Skin & Nails: Shiny, thin skin; brittle nails; changes in hair growth
• Movement Issues: Stiffness, weakness, tremors, or muscle spasms

TYPES

1. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy: No direct nerve injury, but abnormal reaction to trauma (90% of cases)
2. Causalgia: Involves a confirmed nerve injury

CAUSES AND TRIGGERS

Often follows injury, surgery, fracture, or immobilization (cast)
Cause is poorly understood but involves an abnormal nervous system response to trauma

HELP AND AWARENESS

Help is available if you have any type of CRPS. Help includes -

• Specialized Physiotherapy (functional restoration)
• Nerve Blocks (e.g., with Paldronate infusions)
• Medications for neuropathic pain

CRPS is diagnosed clinically by ruling out other conditions using symptoms, blood tests, imaging