What is CRPS?
CRPS stands for Complex regional pain syndrome, a term used to describe excess and extended pain and inflammation that follows an injury to the arm or leg.
Caused by damage to small nerve fibres that carry pain messages to the brain. They send too many messages and cause too much inflammation. Usually triggered by nerve trauma or injury to the affected limb. It can come in the form of both acute pain and chronic pain.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of CRPS include;
Changes in skin colour - can be blotchy, blue, purple, gray, pale, or red. Fluctuate with blood flow
Changes in skin temperature
Changes in skin texture - caused by decreased oxygen and nutrients to the skin
Swelling in the affected limb
Stiffness in joints
Hair and nails may grow abnormally rapidly, or not at all on the affected limb
Impaired muscle strength and movement
The pain experienced can come in many forms;
Spontaneous pain that fluctuates with movement and activity
The sensation of pins and needles, throbbing, burning, or tightness
Increased sensitivity where even a light touch can be very painful
Excess or prolonged pain after use or contact
These symptoms occur over months to years as the injured nerve regrows. If it does not heal, symptoms can linger and can cause long-term disability.
It is also important to note that CRSP can often develop secondary psychological problems including depression and situational anxiety. Because of this, it reduces activity and brain function, making it hard for patients to seek medical help and engage in active recovery.
Who develops CRPS?
The most common sufferers of CRPS are women in their 40s. Although it can occur at any age. It is very rare in children as they have the ability to heal quickly. It is also rare in the elderly as they have less inflammation after an injury occurs.
Treatment
There is, unfortunately, no single treatment for those suffering from the complex pain of CRPS, there is no cure and can be difficult to treat. However, one of the most important aims of treatment is to get the movement back in that limb to improve the blood flow, improve or maintain flexibility, and to strengthen the affected limb.
and circulatory symptoms This is why a physical rehabilitation therapy programme developed by a physiotherapist is very important.
Physiotherapy
We specialise in the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions. If you are suffering with any health aliments that you feel we could help you with, get in touch today. We provide treatment for a wide age range from 9 years to 90 years old.