Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CPRS) Treatment Specialist in Rapid City, SD

There is no clear explanation for the cause of CRPS. It’s thought to be caused by an injury to the peripheral nervous system or a difference between the peripheral and central nervous systems. The onset of CRPS is usually associated with trauma or injury. 

Two types of CRPS exist, each with similar symptoms and signs, but different causes. In type 1, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), the nerves in the affected limb are not directly damaged by the illness or injury. Type 1 CRPS accounts for about 90% of CRPS cases. The symptoms of type 2, once referred to as causalgia, are similar to those of type 1. However, type 2 CRPS occurs after a distinct nerve injury. 

It is common for CRPS to occur after a forceful injury to the arm or leg. An injury such as a fracture or crushing can cause this. Other major and minor traumas can cause CRPS, such as surgery, heart attacks, infection, and even sprained ankles. 

There is no clear explanation for why these injuries can trigger CRPS. CRPS does not develop in every person who suffers from such an injury. This may be the result of an abnormal interaction between your central nervous system and peripheral nervous system and different inflammatory responses.

People with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) experience symptoms differently and for varying lengths of time. There is no known cause for CRPS, but it usually appears four to six weeks after an injury, fracture, or surgery. CRPS is most commonly characterized by pain. A burning, stinging, or tearing sensation is experienced as part of the pain. The pain is usually deep inside the affected limb. CRPS can significantly affect your limb function, sleep, daily activities, and mental health. 

Adults are more likely to suffer from CRPS than children. Peak onset occurs around 40 years of age. People assigned as females at birth are more likely to suffer from CRPS than those assigned as males at birth. 

CRPS has three stages: acute, subacute, and chronic. Acute stages last three months on average. There is usually a burning type of pain, swelling, redness on the skin, sweating, and a decrease in range of motion during this stage. Three months after the onset of symptoms, the patient enters the subacute phase. At this stage, patients continue to experience severe pain, swelling, skin dryness, and paleness. It can take up to 12 months for the patient to progress to the chronic stage, which can last for several years or even be permanent. A patient with chronic pain may experience severe pain or mild pain; it may also fluctuate. There is a dry, shiny, and cool sensation to the patient’s skin. The patient’s underlying bones can also weaken from the potential development of osteoporosis since they have not been using their extremity. 

The cause of constant, severe pain in a limb should be determined by your healthcare provider if it makes touching or moving that limb intolerable. The symptoms of CRPS might be improved with early treatment. It is often necessary to combine different treatments, tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Various medications and therapies may be effective in treating CRPS. 

We offer a wide range of evidence-based pain management services at Rapid City Interventional Pain Clinic to restore your functionality and quality of life. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 101 E Minnesota St. Rapid City, SD 57701. We serve patients from Rapid City SD, Rapid Valley SD, Black Hawk SD, Box Elder SD, and surrounding areas.