What is CRPS

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a rare but serious condition which causes chronic pain, usually in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. CRPS/RSD is a form of chronic pain, usually affecting an arm or leg, often caused after a traumatic personal injury, including broken bones, sprains and strains, burns, cuts, and bruises. This condition causes high levels of nerve impulses to be sent to the affected site.

While the specific cause of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is not clearly understood, according to the The National Organization for Rare Disorders, around 200,000 people suffer from CRPS/RSD in the United States. Treatment for CRPS is most effective when started early.

What are the Symptoms of CRPS/RSD?

The main symptom associated with CRPS/RSD is constant, prolonged pain ranging in severity from mild to unbearable. The pain may come as a burning sensation, pins & needles, or a "squeezing" feeling. While pain is usually felt in the limbs, CRPS/RSD has been known to cause pain in the neck and other parts of the body as well. Other symptoms include:

• Changes in temperature.
• Changes in skin color and texture.
• Swelling in the areas where pain is felt.
• Aching and stiffness of joints - Muscle coordination and mobility issues.
• Muscle spasms, tremors and "jerking."
• Problems maintaining adequate blood flow in an affected limb.

The level of pain caused by Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is measured as one of the most severe on the McGill University Pain Scale with a rating of 42 out of a possible 50.

What are the Main Causes of CRPS/RSD?

The exact cause is unknown, but one of the main theories is that an abnormal inflammatory response occurs after an injury which eventually develops into CRPS/RSD. Some experts believe that CRPS occurs after a trauma when there is a dysfunction in the central and peripheral nervous system and immune system when responding to tissue damage. The malfunction causes nerves to misfire, sending pain signals to the brain. Since CRPS/RSD typically develops after traumatic injuries to the body, any source of traumatic injury can all lead to CRPS/RSD, including:

• Car accidents
• Sports accidents
• Construction accidents
• Botched surgeries and other such medical malpractice.

How is CRPS Treated?

CRPS/RSD can get worse over time and potentially spread to other parts of the body. In some cases, the pain can subside on its own, but it is best to seek treatment to relieve the pain for good. The most common treatments for patients living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome focus on nerve blocks and include:

• Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation can be implemented to prevent or reverse chronic pain in the affected limb. Exercising keeps the affected limb or body part moving, which helps to improve blood flow and lessen the circulatory symptoms.
• Psychotherapy: Some people suffering from CRPS can develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is important for patients to cope with their injury in order to heal completely.
• Medications: While no drug has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically for CRPS, different medications have been reported to be effective.

CRPS is a life-altering condition that presents challenges in everyday living to those affected by it. If you or someone you know suffers from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome caused by a personal injury, please call the Law Offices of Alvin F. de Levie & Associates at (844)-777-2529 for a consultation. One of our team members will be in immediate contact with you.

We maintain offices throughout Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, State College, Bellefonte and Lock Haven, and we are willing to meet any clients throughout the Commonwealth.