Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment in Marlton, NJ

What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a neurological condition that causes pain and other symptoms in a certain part of your body.

What are the Symptoms of CRPS?

While most cases of CRPS are triggered by an injury, the pain that comes from the injury is often much more severe and lasts for a longer period of time.

If you think you may have CRPS, it is important to seek help from a provider. Because it can often be difficult to diagnose, be sure to visit with trusted doctors with experience. We will listen to you and help you navigate your symptoms.

CRPS is typically characterized by intense and persistent pain that typically affects one limb, though it can spread to other parts of the body. This usually occurs in your wrist, arm, leg, hand or foot.

Other symptoms may include:

  • Continuous burning or throbbing pain
  • Sensitivity to touch or cold
  • Changes in body temperature — going from hot or sweaty to cold
  • Skin color can change, ranging from white and blotchy to red or blue
  • Swelling in or around the area
  • Skin may become thin or shiny
  • Changes in hair and nail growth
  • Joint stiffness and swelling
  • Muscle spasms, tremors, and weakness
  • Decreased mobility in the injured area

If you have persistent pain that’s preventing you from carrying out everyday activities, we can help.

Who Does CRPS Affect?

CRPS is a rare condition, but most commonly seen in adults around age 40. It more often affects females and those of European ancestry. It was previously known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) and causalgia.

Diagnosing CRPS

It is challenging to diagnose CRPS because it can often be mistaken for other pain conditions.

To properly diagnose CRPS, we help:

  • Perform a thorough clinical assessment
  • Discuss at length your medical history
  • Recommend diagnostic tests or imaging studies
  • Collaborate with others to discuss clinical findings

Types of CRPS

There are two main types of CRPS, type one and two.

CRPS Type 1 (CRPS-I)

This form occurs without evidence of nerve damage or specific nerve injury. It often arises following trauma or injury to a limb, leading to disproportionate pain, swelling, changes in skin temperature, and altered skin color.

CRPS Type 2 (CRPS-II)

CRPS-II is associated with confirmed nerve damage or injury. Similar symptoms of pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature characterize this type, along with a distinct underlying neural pathology.

Treating CRPS

Signs and symptoms of CRPS can go away on their own. But in other cases, symptoms may linger for months or years.

If you are experiencing any symptoms, treatment is likely to be most effective when started early in the course of the illness. We can help you get the peace of mind you deserve.

Treatment typically includes:

  • Rehabilitation and physical therapy to improve blood flow
  • Elevating arms or legs when resting or sleeping
  • Using compression stockings or sleeves to limit swelling
  • Treating psychological problems to help cope
  • Medications to alleviate pain and restore function
  • Therapeutic techniques to retrain the brain

Request Your Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome, contact Ram Wellness Group at 908-540-7954 to schedule a consultation.

Request An Appointment