Have you been plagued by chronic sharp, burning, or aching pain? If so, you are not alone. According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine over 100 million Americans struggle with chronic pain conditions. Chronic pain is defined as pain persisting for 12 weeks or longer. Unfortunately, the root cause of many chronic pain conditions remains unknown. Amongst the many conditions that can cause chronic pain is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, also known as CRPS is a condition that causes chronic pain. The condition typically develops after a previous injury. CRPS causes severe pain in the arms of legs, generally only affecting one limb. Pain typically occurs in the hand, wrist, ankle, or foot, although in extreme cases the whole limb may be affected.

Do you believe your chronic pain may be caused by Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? Read on to learn more about CRPS and how you can find relief:

Symptoms

The chronic pain caused by CRPS can be debilitating, and can affect people of all ages and genders. The primary symptom of CRPS is pain. Other symptoms include:

Swelling

Stiffness

Extreme sensitivity to touch

Colour changes

Heat changes

Immobility

Change in perspiration

Anxiety and/or depression

Causes

Unfortunately, we do not yet know the exact cause of CRPS. CRPS is categorized into two types with varying believed causes. The potential causes of CRPS include:

Type 1: It is believed to be triggered following an acute injury where no apparent nerve damage is present. Symptoms typically begin appearing about a month after injury.

Type 2: This occurs following nerve damage to the affected limb.

Treatment

When should you seek treatment? If you are experiencing chronic pain and discomfort, meet with a physician right away! As with all chronic pain conditions, pain management is the ultimate goal. Your physician will help form a pain management plan that will return you to the comfort of everyday life. Treatment methods that may be included in your pain management plan includes:

Ice and heat therapy

Over the counter pain medication

Rest

Rehabilitation physical therapy

Occupational therapy

Physiotherapy

Prescription pain medication

Lidocaine patches

Corticosteroids

Antidepressants

Spinal cord stimulation

Pain Management at MidAmerica Orthopaedics

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome can be a highly debilitating condition to endure. If you’ve been experiencing chronic pain that you believe to be caused by CRPS it’s time to seek a diagnosis and get on the path towards healing and pain management.

To learn more about MidAmerica Orthopaedics and the different treatment options available to you, request an appointment online or call (708) 237-7200. MidAmerica Orthopaedics serves various areas such as Chicago, Tinley Park, Palos Hills, Mokena, Evergreen Park, New Lenox, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, and more.