Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Many consider this medical condition as the most painful in the world. Unfortunately, 80,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with this painful condition every year. Previously, CRPS was referred to as Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). What is CRPS? Well, this is a condition that arises when the peripheral and nervous system is injured or malfunction resulting in chronic pain.
This pain can last for weeks, months, and/or years. Nevertheless, if it is not addressed effectively, it can be permanent. There have been multiple treatment options of which physical therapy is the most preferred due to its effectiveness. At Lawton Physical Therapy we ensure your pain is alleviated and help you go back to your normal healthy condition. But what causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Causes of CRPS
CRPS rotates around the central and peripheral nervous system. Peripheral nerves are responsible for carrying signals from all other parts of the body to and from the brain and spinal cord. Basically, there are 3 major causes of CRPS:
- An injury like a bone fracture, sprain, cut, burn, needle stick, and surgery among others
- An infection
- Having issues with the blood vessels
Our well trained physical therapists will carry out a thorough examination to know precisely the cause of your severe pain. Which signs and symptoms show you may be having CRPS?
Signs and Symptoms of CRPS
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is more frequent in women than in men who are in their 40s especially the one who have hypersensitivity reactions and allergies. Symptoms depend on the stage of an individual and can keep on changing. However, these are the major signs and symptoms:
- Decrease or increase in sweating
- Changes on the skin color, temperature, and appearance
- Extreme pain
- Osteoporosis
- Joint stiffness
- High sensitivity – allodynia – to noise, touch, and vibration
- Variant hair and nail growth – increase or decrease
- Depression
- Irritability
- Short span memory
- Difficulties in speaking
- Atrophy
How Do We Help You?
At Lawton Physical Therapy, our experienced physical therapists deploy their vast knowledge to ensure your limbs remain functional and flexible while still managing your pain and swellings. They use desensitization therapy, graded motor imagery, mirror box therapy, and Edema massage. If you have CRPS, come for a diagnosis as soon as possible in our facility by booking an appointment (lawtonphysicaltherapy.com/book-an-appointment/). With us you will have started your journey to pain relief.