Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: General Overview

Author: Molly Maxim
Published: 2012/01/09 - Updated: 2019/01/07
Topic: Pain: Acute and Chronic - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Complex regional pain syndrome CRPS is a form of chronic pain that can affect any part of the body but usually an arm or leg.

Introduction

Complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS, is a form of chronic pain that can affect any part of the body; in most instances, however, CRPS affects an arm or leg. The pain experienced by CPRS sufferers can be incredibly intense, leaving many with the condition unable to work.

Main Item

Since CRPS is not well understood, many CRPS cases go unrecognized. For anyone who is personally suffering from unexplained pain or has a loved one experiencing pain issues following a workplace injury, a basic understanding of CRPS can be extremely beneficial.

What Causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Approximately 90 percent of CRPS cases occur following an injury that did not directly damage the nerves in the limb that ends up in pain. This type of CRPS was formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.

The other type of CRPS, once called causalgia, stems from a direct nerve injury to the affected area.

Crush injuries, fractures, amputations, surgeries, heart attacks and infections can all lead to CRPS. But, CRPS sometimes appears without an obvious injury, and it is even thought to be precipitated by emotional stress.

When there is an initial injury, the pain experienced by the CRPS sufferer is often far more severe than that accompanying the original damage.

Doctors are not certain why injuries sometimes trigger CRPS. A leading theory is that CRPS results from miscommunication between the central and peripheral nervous systems and abnormal inflammatory responses.

A Wide Range of Symptoms

Underlying all other symptoms, generally the longer CRPS goes untreated, the more intense and widespread pain becomes.

New Insights Into CRPS a Chronic Pain Condition - Researchers suggest CRPS might involve changes in the way that the brain processes visual information - University of Bath

Explore Similar Topics

- List of the major types of pain including explanations of each type and subtype.

- This study questions the perception that people with autism experience less pain and instead suggests that they may have enhanced pain sensitivity.

Citing Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource providing information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): Molly Maxim. (2012, January 9 - Last revised: 2019, January 7). Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: General Overview. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved February 9, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/health/pain/crps.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/health/pain/crps.php">Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: General Overview</a>: Complex regional pain syndrome CRPS is a form of chronic pain that can affect any part of the body but usually an arm or leg.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.