Common causes
- A fracture, sprain or crush injury preceding the symptoms.
- Surgery or a period of limb immobilization.
- Nerve injury, sometimes without a clearly identified event.
- Heightened nervous system sensitivity that sustains pain after healing.
- In some cases, no identifiable trigger.
How we evaluate
History focuses on the injury or event that preceded symptoms, the pattern of pain, and changes in swelling, temperature, skin and movement. A hands-on osteopathic and physiatric examination documents sensory changes, color and temperature differences, swelling and the limb's tolerance for gentle movement, with consent and care given the sensitivity involved. There is no single test that confirms CRPS; the diagnosis is clinical, while imaging, EMG/NCS or other studies may help exclude alternative explanations. Coordination with the referring clinician and, when helpful, pain psychology supports the plan.
Treatment options
we may discuss.
Performance Health / rehabilitation
Graded motor imagery, desensitization and gentle progressive movement form the core of CRPS care, coordinated with therapists experienced in the condition. Forcing a painful limb is avoided, and progress is measured in function rather than pain alone. Most CRPS care is nonsurgical; procedures and, rarely, surgical opinions are considered only for specific indications.
Regenerative & Cell-Based Medicine
Regenerative care may be discussed only for a separate, clearly identified tendon or joint problem. PRP, prolotherapy and cell-based or biologic therapies are not established treatments for CRPS. For CRPS itself, rehabilitation, medication review and selected sympathetic procedures are the more appropriate focus.
Targeted Pain Management
Medication review may include nerve-pain medicines and other agents considered on an individual basis. Sympathetic nerve blocks may be discussed when appropriate, primarily to create a window for rehabilitation. Ketamine infusion therapy, used off-label, is one of the options we offer for selected CRPS and chronic pain cases, with careful screening and monitoring. Procedures are image-guided, using ultrasound or X-ray guidance depending on the target.
Related treatments
From the Journal
Related conditions
Common
questions.
When to seek
care urgently.
Seek urgent medical care for a limb that is cold, discolored or losing circulation, signs of infection, or new weakness or loss of bladder control alongside severe pain.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Medical Disclaimer