Complex Regional Pain Syndrome CAT

Question 1

In what situations is CRPS usually seen?

Answer 1

• In an extremity that has experienced some sort of trauma
• Increased sympathetic NS activity leads to NE in the system and subsequent vasoconstriction
• This results in pain and increase in sensitivity to peripheral stimulation

Question 2

Which demographics are more likely to have CRPS?

Answer 2

• 35-60 y/o
• Females > males

Question 3

Clinical presentation w/ CRPS

Answer 3

• Intense burning and chronic pain in the affected extremity that will spread proximally
• Motor disorders (tremors, spasms, atrophy)

Question 4

Stage I CRPS

Answer 4

• Acute stage
• Edema, thermal changes, discoloration, stiffness, and dryness seen

Question 5

Stage II CRPS

Answer 5

• Dystrophic stage
• Worsening and constant pain
• Continued edema
• Trophic skin changes
• X-rays show bone loss, osteoporosis, subchondral bone erosion

Question 6

Stage III CRPS

Answer 6

• Atrophic stage
• Pain continues to spread
• Hardened edema
• Decreased limb temp
• Atrophic changes to fingertips/toes
• X-rays reveal demineralization and ankylosis

Question 7

PT management of CRPS

Answer 7

Pain control, pt education, skin care, joint mobs, desensitization, functional activity training, modalities, pool therapy, relaxation training

Question 8

What leads to the best prognosis for CRPS?

Answer 8

For patients that begin treatment early