Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic condition with no cure. While around 200,000 people in the US are known to have CRPS, it is thought that there may actually be many more who are suffering from the wide range of symptoms—of which the most common is pain and severe discomfort. There are two types associated with this condition. Type 1 (also previously known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome or RSD) is the most common form, and usually occurs after a trauma such as a car crash or motorcycle accident—or after a mild to serious event like a heart attack. Type 2 (also known as causalgia) is rarer, usually resulting from a direct, known injury to a nerve.

While pain is usually the first symptom to arise in pointing to CRPS, there is a long and varied list of associated and unpleasant symptoms. Most patients have no idea what CRPS is initially, struggling with discomfort that arrives on the heels of what is usually a less intense injury. An ankle sprain from a car accident may heal, but soon after CRPS takes its place with surprising ferocity.

Skin sensitivity is common, usually occurring in the limb of the previous injury, although the other limb may be affected eventually too. While skin discoloration or swelling may be apparent (along with unusual hair or nail growth), in some cases, the nerve sensitivity may be invisible—but severe. Many individuals report pain after something as mild as a slight breeze touches the area. Unusual skin temperature may cause discomfort too, due to nerve damage and circulation issues. The skin may become cold, clammy, or sweaty, and may switch from one to the other unpredictably. These types of temperature issues and changes may also be a way for medical professionals to diagnose CRPS, along with ruling out other similar conditions or diseases and using MRIs, CTs, and bone scans.

For a more successful outcome, swift diagnosis and treatment are recommended. Depending on the severity, doctors may suggest something as mild as over-the-counter pain relievers. They may also prescribe stronger medications to help patients deal with the pain, along with corticosteroids, topical anesthetics like Lidocaine, and more. Numerous therapies can be helpful too, from physical therapy to relaxation therapy, mirror therapy, biofeedback, and other methods.

Were you in an accident due to the negligence of others that triggered CRPS? If so, please call Heintz Law 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 Law for informational purposes. These articles should not, however, be considered legal advice, or in any way responsible for creating an attorney/client relationship.