COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME (CRPS)

One source of limb pain and sensitivity is complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS. This condition is believed to be caused by nerve abnormalities, either from injury or health conditions. While the exact cause of CRPS is unknown, there are options to give patients with this chronic leg pain condition relief. Our interventional pain specialists at Ospina Medical offer advanced complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) treatment at our clinic in NYC.

Irritated or damaged nerves can result in pain and dysfunction. Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, is a nerve disorder that is common in the extremities, including the arms and hands. CRPS can occur without warning or follow an injury, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. Our knowledgeable pain specialists at Ospina Medical can offer an accurate diagnosis and treatment of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) at our clinic in Manhattan.

CRPS is a peripheral nerve pain disorder that is most common in younger adults, but it can affect people at any age. The condition is not well understood, often occurring in the arm or hand after an injury or surgery. In some cases, there is no identifiable cause of CRPS. The symptoms can include:

• Stiff or inflamed joints
• Chronic pain, often a burning sensation
• Skin may be colder or warmer in affected areas
• Decreased function
• Extreme sensitivity

Symptoms may come and go, but chronic pain in the affected arm or hand is the most common complaint in patients with CRPS.

There are two main types of CRPS, one that is not caused by a direct nerve injury and one resulting from a nerve injury. It is estimated that 90% of CRPS cases are not due to a direct nerve injury but may follow other types of trauma such as a stroke, heart attack or serious injury. In most cases, CRPS affects one limb, such as a hand, leg or foot. Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Chronic pain (six months or longer) in the affected limb
• Limb colder or warmer than other areas on the body
• Changes in skin texture – thinner and shiny
• Changes in skin color – bluish or reddish with mottled white areas
• Swelling and stiffness in joints
• Sensitivity to touch and temperature
• Spasms and tremors
• Changes in hair or nail growth

CRPS can affect teens and adults, rarely young children. In younger adults, the prognosis is good with treatment. Older adults may experience CRPS for many years and need ongoing treatment to control the symptoms.

Treatment for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) may vary for each patient based on their severity and symptoms. Our experienced pain experts at Ospina Medical can devise a treatment plan that effectively manages pain and other symptoms. Some treatments that have been effective for CRPS include Botox injections, anti-inflammatory medications/injections, spinal cord stimulation, physical therapy and nerve blocks.

If you have limb pain from CRPS or you are not sure of the cause of your pain, contact us at Ospina Medical today. We offer innovative diagnosis and treatment for CRPS and other chronic pain conditions at our clinic in Midtown Manhattan.

Without knowing the cause of CRPS, a cure is not possible. What can be achieved is managing chronic pain and improving the function of the arms and hands for the patient. Our interventional pain specialists at Ospina Medical focus on creating a personalized treatment plan for patients with upper extremity complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). This may include nerve blocks and other types of injection therapy, as well as incorporating medication and physical therapy options. Each patient and their symptoms can vary, requiring a unique approach for every patient.

If you are experiencing chronic nerve pain in your hand or arms, you may suffer from complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Contact Ospina Medical in NYC to schedule a consultation to discuss the diagnosis and treatment of your condition.