CRPS is a chronic pain condition where a limb becomes intensely painful, often after an injury or surgery. The pain feels out of proportion to what caused it, and everyday touch or cold can be unbearable. It is treatable.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome happens when the nervous system stays on high alert after an injury. The affected limb becomes hypersensitive, with burning pain, color changes, swelling, and sometimes temperature differences.
Early, targeted treatment makes a real difference. Sympathetic nerve blocks, in particular, can reset the pain signal before CRPS becomes entrenched.
CRPS has a recognizable pattern. Catching it early is the single biggest factor in long-term outcome.
CRPS responds best to early, aggressive, multi-layered treatment. We coordinate interventional care with PT and often other providers.
A targeted block in the neck for upper-extremity CRPS. Calms the sympathetic nerves driving the pain and can reset the pain signal.
A targeted block in the lower back for lower-extremity CRPS. Similar mechanism, different location, with results that can last weeks to months.
An implantable device that delivers gentle electrical pulses to interrupt CRPS pain signals before they reach the brain. A strong option for long-standing cases.
A smaller, temporary implant that targets the specific nerve carrying CRPS pain. A less invasive option that can still provide meaningful relief.
Call us quickly if symptoms are spreading to other limbs, if there are new signs of swelling, infection, or vascular compromise, or if the pain becomes severe enough to interfere with sleep and daily function.
It usually starts after an injury, surgery, or immobilization. The nervous system essentially gets stuck in a high-alert mode. Exactly why some people develop it and others do not is still being studied, but early treatment changes the course.
Some mild cases do. Many do not, and waiting can let the condition become more entrenched. Early, targeted treatment offers the best chance at full recovery.
As soon as the pattern is suspected. If a limb is disproportionately painful weeks after an injury or procedure, please get in quickly. Time matters with CRPS.