Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a unique condition affecting around 200,000 people in the US. Unless you or a loved one have suffered from CRPS, you would, fortunately, probably have no idea what it is. Strangely, the potentially debilitating condition usually emerges just after a limb is fractured or sprained in a trauma—such as a car accident. The patient is usually surprised and confused, not to mention extremely disappointed to have what could be a serious physical issue presenting itself just when they thought they were healed from something minor—or at the very least, not long-term and debilitating in any way.

Triggers are usually apparent, as in the case of a car accident and an obvious injury, with CRPS having caused what could only be termed as an ‘over-reaction’ in so many patients, with the original pain becoming exponentially magnified. For some, CRPS could even be triggered by a blood draw or the most minor of medical procedures—along with other more substantial surgeries, to include amputations. Diagnosis may not be easy in some cases though, and especially since there is not a specific test for the condition. Rather than arriving at a definitive diagnosis due to a positive indication on a test, medical professionals must instead rule out other similar conditions like Lyme disease.

While just figuring out what is wrong initially can be exhausting, greater success in treatment has been noted with early diagnosis. CRPS patients may suffer from so much pain that they have trouble functioning in their daily lives—and along with that, they may become so frightened of experiencing agonizing pain that they are reluctant to walk or move around. This may cause a vicious cycle of muscle loss and even complete atrophy. Patients may experience inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, and awkward symptoms like dystonia where a hand or foot becomes twisted in a fixed position.

Treatments may include simple relief like over-the-counter medication or more serious pain pills like opioids. Corticosteroids, anticonvulsants, and even antidepressants may be prescribed, along with a wide range of different therapies, some of which are conventional physical therapies—and others which are more alternative but highly effective in some cases.

Were you in an accident 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.