Rest Is Not Enough For CRPS
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a serious debilitating condition primarily affecting the limbs. People with CRPS experience persistent, severe pain, changes in skin color and temperature, swelling, and decreased mobility. Some cases persist long after an injury, surgery, or nerve condition. If left untreated, CRPS can impact limb sensitivity, further impact mobility, and cause anxiety or depression. Doctors will recommend rest and pain medication as the first stage of treatment, but CRPS needs a multidisciplinary approach. The medical team can try a range of effective strategies for less pain and a better quality of life.
Start with physical therapy and rehab
A physical therapy protocol may provide relief for CRPS patients. Specific CRPS strategies strengthen the limbs and reduce any desensitization in the affected limb. Strength and mobility exercises gradually improve function while reducing pain. Massage and aquatic therapy reduce pain and improve range of motion (ROM), respectively. Graded motor imagery (GMI) and mirror therapy (MT) are other well-known options for CRPS. As each case is unique, a custom plan will help achieve movement while minimizing pain.
A strong medication protocol
Pain medication is the first treatment option, eventually moving to stronger doses or opioids. While useful in the initial stages, the effectiveness can decrease over time, accompanied by unwanted side effects. Doctors may recommend other effective medications to reduce symptoms. There are neuropathic pain medicines, such as anticonvulsants, which reduce peripheral nerve pain. Antidepressants can help with pain management and mood, which is often severely impacted in CRPS patients. The medical team will create a custom medication plan, increasing dosages or changing medication as needed.
Procedures to attack the nerves
If CRPS patients fail to respond to medication or physical therapy, interventional procedures can help. Nerve block injections of pain medication near the spine can provide more targeted relief. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) uses specialized leads surgically implanted near the spine. The leads are connected to a power supply that sends a consistent electrical current to the painful area. Once successful, the entire device is surgically installed in the patient's lower back. Another surgical device is an intrathecal pain pump, which supplies periodic medicine to the spine or painful area. These procedures can provide long-term pain relief. The medical team will discuss the best option based on the patient's health and preferences.
Additional pain management techniques
Procedures like nerve blocks and SCS provide significant improvement in pain. There are other complementary techniques that can further help CRPS patients. Doctors may recommend transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), a portable device that provides electrical stimulation to reduce pain as needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), biofeedback, and meditation also show promise. Tried and true holistic treatments like acupuncture, massage, and supplementation can help patients find relief. Using these may take trial and error, but patients can find the right combination that produces the best results.
Get support beyond rest for CRPS
CRPS cannot be resolved with rest as the symptoms may get progressively worse. Adding medication, therapy, and other innovations can help with long-term relief. Minimally invasive surgeries like SCS can provide even more relief without the drawbacks of an invasive procedure. Take CRPS symptoms seriously and speak with a specialist for the best path to a pain-free future.
