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Contents
  • Definition and Types
  • What Causes CRPS?
  • Who is at Risk?

What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Why Should You Care?

What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Why Should You Care?

The Big Picture

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a mysterious condition that causes intense pain, often in the arms or legs, and can be triggered by an injury or surgery. Understanding CRPS can help in recognizing symptoms early and managing them effectively.
Contents
  • Definition and Types
  • What Causes CRPS?
  • Who is at Risk?

Definition and Types

CRPS is a condition involving ongoing pain that seems worse than expected following an injury. It's divided into two types: Type I, where there's no nerve damage, and Type II, where nerve damage is present. These types can have 'warm' or 'cold' subtypes, based on skin temperature.

What Causes CRPS?

The exact cause of CRPS is unknown, but it involves inflammation and changes in how the nervous system processes pain. Factors like genetics and the immune system may also play a role, making it complex and varied in its expression.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition typically affecting the arms or legs, often following an injury or surgery. It involves ongoing pain that is disproportionate to the initial event.

Who is at Risk?

CRPS is more common in women and often occurs after fractures or surgeries. It rarely appears without a trigger, and some studies suggest it may be linked to certain psychological factors, though this remains debated.

FAQs

What is CRPS?

CRPS is a condition causing severe, long-lasting pain often after injury.

How common is CRPS?

It affects 5 to 26 people per 100,000 each year, mostly women.

What triggers CRPS?

Injuries, surgeries, and sometimes no clear cause at all.

Did you know?

CRPS can make your limb feel hotter or colder than usual.

Wrapping Up

Understanding CRPS is crucial for managing its symptoms and improving quality of life.
Think you might have CRPS? Discuss your symptoms with Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Harden RN, Bruehl S, Stanton-Hicks M, Wilson PR. Proposed new diagnostic criteria for complex regional pain syndrome. Pain Med 2007; 8:326.
  2. Stanton-Hicks M, Jänig W, Hassenbusch S, et al. Reflex sympathetic dystrophy: changing concepts and taxonomy. Pain 1995; 63:127.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.