Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) varies significantly from patient to patient in its presentation and its development, but it’s generally a disruption to the peripheral nervous system. This may or may not be caused through trauma and can in turn result in a secondary disruption to the central nervous system.
The symptoms may change over time and vary from person to person. Pain, swelling, redness, changes in temperature and sensitivity to cold temperatures are usually experienced first.
The limb that is affected can become pale and cold over time and may also undergo skin changes and nail disorders. Muscle spasms and muscle tightening can also develop and once this happens, the condition can often become irreversible.
CRPS can spread from one part of the body to another, including opposite limbs. In some people symptoms go away on their own while in others they may persist for months or years The sooner treatment is performed from the onset of symptoms, the more effective the outcome will be.
Types Of CRPS
There are two types of CRPS, with similar symptoms and signs however, causes may differ:
Type 1 – this is the most common type of CRPS, and is also referred to as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD). It can be caused by an injury or illness that might not have damaged the nerves of the actual affected limb. About 90% of patients are diagnosed with type 1 CRPS.
Type 2 – this was once known as causalgia, and has similar symptoms to those of type 1. However, type 2 CRPS usually occurs as a result of a specific nerve injury.
It’s not well known why certain injuries trigger CRPS. Not everyone with these injuries will actually go on to develop CRPS. It could possibly be due to a dysfunctional connection and interactionbetween your central and peripheral nervous systems and disproportionate inflammatory responses.
If you are experiencing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and need advice from a qualified therapist, please call us at Melbourne Hand Therapy today (03) 9899 8490 or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
