Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Question 1

What is CRPS?

Answer 1

Usually found in an extremity that has undergone some form of trauma.

• Due to disturbance in function of the sympathetic nervous system

Question 2

What does an increase in sympathetic activity cause?

Answer 2

Release of norepinephrine in the periphery.

• Causing vasoconstriction of the blood vessels.
• Leads to increase in pain and sensitivity.

Question 3

Predisposing factors for the developments of CRPS?

Answer 3

Trauma
Surgery
CVA - TBI
LMN and Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Question 4

Are males or females more likely to produce CRPS?

Answer 4

Females

Question 5

Clinical Presentation: Common subjective complaints

Answer 5

• Intense burning and chronic pain in the affected extremity
• Degree of pain is greater than expected to the level of trauma the tissue sustained.

Question 6

Skin changes associated with CRPS?

Answer 6

Edema
Thermal Changes
Discoloration
Stiffness
Dryness
Trophic Changes

Question 7

What laboratory or imaging studies can be implemented?

Answer 7

• X-Rays
• Thermographic Studies
• Bone scan

Question 8

Long-term effects of CRPS?

Answer 8

• Can spontaneously resolve
• Can go for years with ongoing symptoms
• Follow a pattern of remission and recurring symptoms