Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – Symptoms and Causes

Overview

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition. It usually affects one limb, often after an injury. The exact cause of CRPS is not fully understood.

However, it is thought to be due to a malfunction in the nervous system.

CRPS has two types: CRPS-I and CRPS-II. CRPS-I used to be called reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome. CRPS-II used to be called causalgia. Both types have similar symptoms and treatments.

One of the main symptoms of CRPS is continuous, intense pain. This is out of proportion to the severity of the injury. The pain gets worse over time, rather than better.

Another symptom is increased sensitivity in the affected area. This can cause the slightest touch or change in temperature to be very painful.

The affected limb may also undergo changes in temperature and color. It may become warmer or cooler compared to the other limb. It may also change color to white, blue, red, or blotchy.

Other symptoms include changes in skin texture. The skin in the affected area may become thin and shiny. It may also become tender, dry, or excessively sweaty.

CRPS can also lead to changes in hair and nail growth. The nails may become brittle or grow faster or slower than normal.

Swelling and stiffness in the affected joint may also occur. This can lead to decreased mobility and muscle weakness.

The exact cause of CRPS is still not fully understood. However, it is thought to be due to a malfunction in the nervous system.

This can cause the nerves to send continuous pain signals to the brain. It can also cause an inflammation response in the affected area.

CRPS is usually triggered by an injury. This can be a fracture, sprain, surgery, or even a minor bump or bruise. However, not everyone with an injury will develop CRPS. This suggests that there may be other factors at play.

CRPS is also more common in women. It usually affects people aged 20 to 35. However, it can occur at any age and in men as well.

There is no specific test for CRPS. The diagnosis is based on the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Doctors may also use imaging tests to rule out other conditions.

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and other symptoms. Physical therapy and medications are often used for this. In severe cases, nerve blocks or surgery may be necessary.

Common Signs and Symptoms

CRPS typically causes ongoing burning or throbbing pain in limbs like arms, legs, hands, or feet. People with this condition often experience increased sensitivity to touch and cold.

They also may have swelling in painful areas, as well as temperature changes that alternate between sweaty and cold.

Other symptoms include skin color changes (white and blotchy or red/blue) and skin texture changes (becoming tender, thin, or shiny).

Abnormal hair and nail growth, joint problems, muscle issues, and limited movement of the affected body part are also common.

Early symptoms usually include pain, swelling, redness, temperature changes, and sensitivity to cold and touch. As time passes, the affected limb may become cold and pale. The condition can progress to include skin and nail changes along with muscle tightening.

Once these later changes develop, the condition becomes harder to reverse. In some cases, CRPS can spread from the original location to other body parts, sometimes affecting the opposite limb.

CRPS symptoms vary widely between individuals. Some people find their symptoms disappear without treatment, while others experience problems for months or years.