By Meghan Riccardi, SPT
What is CRPS?
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a rare chronic pain disorder that can affect the upper or lower extremities. This syndrome develops mainly after trauma to the affected area.
It is characterized by spontaneous or excess pain that is disproportionate to the aggravating factor. CRPS can be acute with the classic symptoms of inflammation, or chronic (>6 months) which is characterized by changes of the soft tissue such as skin color changes or loss of muscle mass. There are two different types of CRPS which are classified as CRPS type I and CRPS type II. While both types present typically after trauma, the key distinguishing feature is the presence of a definite nerve injury, which is absent in type 1, but present in type 2.
What Causes CRPS?
Most CRPS illnesses are caused by damage to, or dysfunction of peripheral C-fiber nerves. These nerves carry pain, itch, and temperature messages to the brain and control the small blood vessels of the surrounding area. When these nerves are damaged, they can cause abnormal pain responses to normally unharmful events and can cause autonomic responses that are not necessary such as swelling in the absence of or long after the resolution of structural or physical damage.
Common Injuries/Actions that can cause CRPS:
- Fractures
- Crush injuries
- Surgery
- Strains/Sprains
- Burns/Cuts
- Limb immobilization
- Penetrations
- Stroke
- Tumors/Soft tissue abnormalities
Signs and Symptoms
- Severe and diffuse pain
- Sensitivity to touch
- Shiny skin
- Loss of hair in the affected area
- Nail color changes
- Skin color changes
- Skin temperature changes
- Swelling
- Loss of range of motion
- Loss of muscle mass
How Can Physical Therapy Help?
Treatment is most effective when started early, so if you think you may be experiencing CRPS seek a physician or physical therapist who can help. One of the most important treatments for CRPS is to keep the painful limb moving to improve blood flow, lessen circulatory symptoms, and can maintain strength, flexibility, and function. Physical therapy can also help with desensitization to lessen your body’s pain response to non-harmful events .
Physical therapy for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is ne of the conditions the physical therapists at Capital Area Physical Therapy & Wellness treat. If you live in the NY Capital Region, we have a clinic near you. For additional information, contact us at 518-289-5242 to make an appointment.
