Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Understanding CRPS or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, is a chronic pain condition lasting more than six months that affects either an arm or a leg after an accident, injury, surgery or stroke. CRPS is characterized as severe, persistent pain that usually begins about a month after the injury or surgery.

Symptoms of CRPS

The most classic symptom of CRPS is severe throbbing, stinging or burning pain. The painful area may also be incredibly sensitive to the touch. There may also be swelling and stiffness in the affected area. Sometimes, the muscles may also be affected as well, leading to uncontrollable and jerky movements.

Treating CRPS

Early diagnosis and treatment can often provide patients with a good prognosis for treating complex regional pain syndrome. While there are no definitive tests to be able to diagnose CRPS, our pain management team will be able to determine whether you are dealing with the condition through a physical examination and by asking a series of detailed questions about the pain and symptoms you are experiencing. Sometimes x-rays or other imaging tests may be recommended to rule out other conditions.

There is no single treatment that is used to treat CRPS; therefore, our pain management doctor will create a detailed and individualized treatment plan that will focus on treating and alleviating your pain. Treatment for complex regional pain syndrome may include,

Rehab and physical therapy: Certain exercises can help improve the mobility, functionality, and range of motion of the affected arm or leg.

Nerve blocks: Sympathetic nerve blocks can provide patients with temporary relief from severe pain by injecting anesthesia directly into the spine.

Spinal cord stimulation: By placing electrodes into the spine this implant can interrupt pain signals to change the way your brain interprets and experiences pain, replacing the pain with a painless tingling sensation.

There are also a variety of alternative therapies that could also provide you with relief. We can work with you to help you create a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan for managing your pain.

If you are dealing with CRPS and are having trouble getting your pain under control then call Reno Tahoe Pain Associates in Reno, NV at (775) 384-1127 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Ali Nairizi.