Chronic pain can significantly impact your physical and emotional health, especially when the discomfort is much worse than expected or lingers long after an injury has healed. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) causes this type of ongoing pain.
Our team at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists (IPRMS) in Arlington, Virginia, believes knowledge is the first step toward healing. By understanding CRPS, you can take an active role in finding the chronic pain treatment and support you need.
CRPS is a chronic pain condition that typically affects an arm, leg, hand, or foot. It often begins after an injury, surgery, stroke, or even something minor like a sprain.
The pain from CRPS is often severe, remains after the injury has healed, and can spread beyond the original site. You may, for instance, experience CRPS symptoms in your left arm following a heart attack despite successful management of your condition.
The exact cause of CRPS is not fully known, but it’s believed to involve abnormal activity in the nervous system, where nerves send stronger-than-normal pain signals to the brain. That’s why CRPS is often identified as a “neuropathic” or “nerve pain” condition.
Recognizing the signs of CRPS early can make a big difference in treatment success. Symptoms may include:
Because CRPS can worsen over time, seeking early pain management care is key.
CRPS symptoms often mimic those of other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. At IPRMS, our specialists typically review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may use imaging or nerve tests to rule out other causes before diagnosing CRPS.
There are several proven therapies that may help reduce CrPS pain and restore mobility:
Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential since early treatment often leads to better outcomes. At IPRMS, we tailor each plan to your individual needs.
Alongside medical care, lifestyle strategies can make day-to-day life more manageable. Your provider may recommend stretching to prevent stiffness in the affected limb or stress management with breathing exercises, yoga, etc.
You may also benefit from support groups or counseling to help work through the distress related to CRPS and other chronic pain conditions.
If you or a loved one is struggling with ongoing nerve pain after an injury or surgery, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with our pain management team today. Call the office or request a visit online. We’ll work with you to create a plan for lasting relief and improved quality of life.
