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Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Post-injury pain disproportionate to injury; autonomic dysfunction; early PT and sympathetic blocks helpful.

Key Information

  • Professional diagnosis and medical evaluation recommended
  • Various treatment options available
  • Early intervention can prevent progression
  • Specialized rheumatologic or orthopedic care often beneficial

About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Post-injury pain disproportionate to injury; autonomic dysfunction; early PT and sympathetic blocks helpful.

For comprehensive information about diagnosis, treatment options, and management strategies, consult with a rheumatologist, orthopedic specialist, or your healthcare provider.

Frequently asked

Common questions about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

Quick, plain-English answers to what people ask us most.

  • What is complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)?

    CRPS is a chronic pain condition that develops after an injury, causing pain disproportionately severe and prolonged compared with what the original injury would normally cause, often affecting a limb and accompanied by changes in skin colour, temperature and swelling.

  • What causes CRPS?

    CRPS is thought to involve abnormal nervous system processing of pain signals and dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system after an injury, though the exact mechanism is not fully understood and it does not occur in everyone after a similar injury.

  • What are the symptoms of CRPS?

    Symptoms include severe, burning pain often out of proportion to the original injury, swelling, changes in skin colour and temperature, sensitivity to touch, and sometimes changes in hair or nail growth in the affected area.

  • Is CRPS serious?

    It can significantly affect function and quality of life if not treated early, and while it can improve substantially with the right approach, delayed treatment is associated with a more difficult course.

  • How is CRPS treated?

    Early physiotherapy focused on gradually restoring movement and function is central to treatment, sometimes alongside pain medication, nerve blocks (sympathetic blocks), and psychological support, ideally started as soon as possible after diagnosis.

  • Can CRPS be cured?

    Many people improve substantially, especially with early, intensive rehabilitation, though some experience a more prolonged course; early diagnosis and treatment give the best chance of good recovery.

  • CRPS vs normal post-injury pain - what's the difference?

    Normal post-injury pain gradually improves in proportion to healing, while CRPS involves pain and other changes that are disproportionate to the injury, persist beyond expected healing time, and often spread beyond the original injury site.

  • When should I see a doctor about possible CRPS?

    See a doctor promptly if pain after an injury seems excessive, isn't settling as expected, or comes with skin colour or temperature changes, since early treatment improves outcomes. A private pain specialist can typically be seen within about two weeks.