Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

What Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Severe and persistent pain that occurs along with changes to the color and temperature of your skin can be a sign of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). The caring physicians at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center offer nerve block treatments for CRPS at their offices in Olney, Rosedale, Hyattsville, Gaithersburg, Lanham, Dundalk, and Baltimore, Maryland.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is complex regional pain syndrome?

CRPS is chronic pain, meaning it lasts longer than six months, that usually affects one limb, such as your arm or leg. CRPS generally occurs after an injury or debilitating condition such as a stroke.

What are the symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome?

The primary symptom of CRPS is prolonged and excessive pain. The pain may be constant and usually occurs in one arm, hand, leg, or foot. CRPS pain may cause burning or pins-and-needles sensations.

Other common signs and symptoms of CRPS include:

Changes in skin color, such as to blue or red
Changes in skin texture, such as shininess
Changes in skin temperature
Abnormal sweating in the affected area
Changes in hair and nail growth
Joint stiffness and swelling
Extreme sensitivity to touch or cold
Muscle spasms or tremors
Difficulty coordinating muscle movement

In addition to pain, the first symptoms to appear usually include changes in skin color, sensitivity, and temperature.

How is complex regional pain syndrome diagnosed?

First, your physician at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center performs a physical exam and thoroughly reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may also take tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other conditions such as arthritis.

How is complex regional pain syndrome treated?

Once they diagnose your CRPS, the team at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center develops a multidisciplinary treatment plan to relieve your specific symptoms. Depending on the type and severity of your pain, treatment may include:

Physical therapy and rehabilitation

Exercise improves blood flow to the affected limb, which may reduce symptoms. Physical therapy also improves the strength, flexibility, and overall function of your limb. This treatment is most effective if CRPS is diagnosed early.

Sympathetic nerve block injections

A stellate ganglion block involves injecting a local anesthetic into specific nerves in your neck to relieve pain in your arms and shoulders. A lumbar sympathetic block is a similar type of injection that occurs on either side of your spine in your lower back.

The team at CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center also offers medication management for continued pain relief after the effects of your nerve block wear off.