5 Encouraging Facts About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a rare condition that contributes to chronic pain, joint stiffness, sensitivity to touch and temperature, swelling, and muscle spasms — often the result of a traumatic injury to one of your limbs.

It’s no secret that CRPS can cause significant discomfort and frustration, but there is hope for individuals managing this challenging condition. Here at Lakeshore Pain and Spine Center, Bradley A. Silva, MD, can customize a treatment plan to help you get the relief you need from CRPS. 

If you or a loved one have complex regional pain syndrome (or suspect that you do), here are five encouraging facts about the condition.

1. Early detection can lead to better symptom management 

If you have foot or hand pain, you don’t have to power through the pain. The sooner you reach out for help, the earlier you get a diagnosis, and can get started with the right treatment plan.

There isn’t a test to diagnose CRPS. Instead, Dr. Silva performs an exam, and reviews your medical history and symptoms. He also asks questions about when your symptoms started. All this information helps Dr. Silva confirm the source of your pain. When CRPS is diagnosed early, the chances of managing symptoms and improving quality of life are significantly higher.

Dr. Silva can customize your treatments depending on whether you have CRPS Type 1 (without significant nerve damage) or CRPS Type 2 (with significant nerve damage.) Early intervention with physical therapy, medications, and other treatments can help prevent your condition from progressing and even lead to remission in some cases.

2. Treatments are advancing

The medical field is continually developing new treatments for CRPS, including nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and ketamine infusions. These therapies can help you manage your pain more effectively, regain the function of your hand or foot, and alleviate the mental stress of chronic pain.

Depression and chronic pain often go hand in hand, but ketamine can help address both of those concerns at once. Ketamine infusions work quickly, often within one hour.

3. Holistic care can make a difference

Beyond medical treatments, incorporating holistic approaches like mindfulness and yoga has shown benefits for some individuals with CRPS. Mindfulness and yoga, in particular, reduce cortisol, boost your mood, and help manage pain.

You can do gentle yoga at home three to five days per week for mild and severe CRPS.

4. Support networks are growing

You're not alone in your journey with CRPS. Many local and online support groups connect people dealing with this same condition. 

You can share your experiences, tips, and encouragement with others and receive encouragement and guidance from others who understand your challenges.

5. We can help!

Perhaps the most encouraging fact is that help for CRPS is available right here in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

If you or someone you know is managing CRPS, remember that help is available, and you don’t have to face it alone. Dr. Silva and the Lakeshore Pain and Spine Center offer comprehensive pain management for CRPS.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, Dr. Silva may recommend: 

• Medication management
• Ketamine infusions for chronic pain
• Physical therapy
• Sympathetic nerve blocks
• Spinal cord stimulation
• Surgery
• Psychotherapy

You can reach our friendly team today at 262-484-4035 or our online scheduling system.