Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

When an arm or leg is affected by Complex Regional Agony Syndrome (CRPS), the sufferer experiences excruciating, unrelenting pain. Acute events such as an accident, surgery, stroke, or heart attack are often the triggers for the onset of CRPS. However, when compared to the actual damage, the pain seems enormous.

Causes

It is likely that CRPS does not have a single cause but rather arises from a combination of factors that all lead to the same symptoms. Catecholamines are a class of nervous system messengers that, according to certain ideas, might alter the sensitivity of pain receptors in the afflicted area. Rashes, warmth, and swelling are all classic inflammatory signs that may accompany CRPS after an injury since the body’s immune system has been triggered. As a result, CRPS is thought to be a disturbance of the normal healing process.

After a physical blow, it usually manifests. However, it can also be brought on by things like an infection, a heart attack, a stroke, cancer, neck issues, or pressure on a nerve.

Symptoms

  • Ongoing discomfort that worsens with time.
  • Pain that is excessive given the extent of your injury.
  • Extreme pain sensitivity, where even light contact with the skin can cause excruciating agony.
  • Spread-out suffering.
  • “Burning” pain or a squeeze-like sensation in the affected limb
  • Skin enlargement swelling in the afflicted limb may be continuous or variable.
  • Loss of function reduced range of motion and tremor. Decreased mobility and/or increased stiffness in the afflicted limb. Having trouble applying pressure to the afflicted joint or limb.
  • Skin temperature changes. Compared to the opposite extremity, the skin of your afflicted limb feels warmer or colder.
  • Skin colour changes that show up as blotchy, pale, purple/bruised, or red.
  • Alterations in skin texture, such as becoming thin and glossy or too perspiring
  • Modifications to hair and nail development. Either there will be no hair growth, or it will grow quickly.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis of complicated regional pain syndrome cannot be made with certainty. Diagnosing CRPS requires a thorough evaluation of your medical history, physical condition, and current symptoms. In addition, your doctor will likely inquire as to whether or not you have recently had any kind of accident, fracture, or surgical procedure.

Treatment

In the absence of a cure, the focus of treatment for CRPS is on managing the disorder’s severe symptoms. Psychotherapy, physiotherapy, and medication are used to alleviate symptoms.

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