Complex regional pain syndrome is an insidious disease, creeping up on patients after they consider themselves to have done the work in healing, and are hoping to move on with their lives after a trauma. Nerve damage is usually caused by an event such as a car accident or possibly even a medical procedure as simple as a needle stick. Other health conditions can trigger it later too, including stroke or heart attack.

There are two types of CRPS currently, although some organizations have discussed doing away with such separation and only having one category for complex regional pain syndrome overall. This chronic pain usually develops in what is labeled Type One, initially affecting the nerves without the patient knowing, as there may not be a direct impact. This is the type of CRPS that affects almost all patients suffering from the condition (around 90 percent of them). And Type Two, also known as causalgia, may have similar symptoms, but with very clear damage to the nerves. In Type One, the patient is usually very surprised to find themselves with symptoms that can be debilitating and can make their lives somewhat unbearable.

CRPS patients may experience very abnormal symptoms at first, to include burning and inflammation of the skin, including discoloration, or even blue and pink tinges topically. Their skin may be so sensitive that just a light breeze is agonizing, or the touch of someone brushing up against them accidentally. Other symptoms of CRPS are issues with mobility, stiffness in the joints, and swelling. Those suffering from CRPS may often feel alternately sweaty or cold and clammy, may experience overall weakness, muscle spasms, and they may be in such pain upon walking or moving that they become reluctant to do so at all.

Atrophy of the muscles is not uncommon, along with other uncomfortable conditions like dystonia, where the fingers or toes are fixed in a twisted or unnatural position. If CRPS is diagnosed (not always an easy feat!) and then treated early, the outcome is usually better. While over-the-counter medicines, opioids, anticonvulsants, anti-seizure medicines, or corticosteroids may be prescribed, numerous different types of physical and alternative therapy may have a positive effect too.

Did you experience a trauma due to the negligence of others that triggered CRPS? If so, please call Heintz & Becker today to consult with a skilled CRPS lawyer. Our attorneys have helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help, and if you cannot come to us, we will come to you.

All blogs are written on behalf of Heintz & Becker for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.