CRPS Type I
- Develops after minor injuries or surgeries without nerve damage
- Accounts for 90% of cases
- is also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy
CRPS Type II
- Linked to specific nerve injuries
- It Has similar symptoms to Type I and is also known as causalgia
The exact cause is unclear, but it involves an abnormal healing process.
Severe pain
Often described as burning or aching, usually worse than expected from the original injury.
Sensitivity
Extreme sensitivity to touch, pain from even light contact (allodynia).
Color and temperature changes
Change in skin colour, e.g., becoming red or blue and feeling warmer or cooler than the other limb.
Swelling
The affected area may swell due to fluid buildup.
Movement issues
Stiffness, weakness and decreased range of motion in the limb.
Abnormal hair and nail growth
Hair and nails on the affected limb may grow differently than those on the other limb.
In general, CRPS-I and CRPS-II have many symptoms in common, but they differ in one key way: CRPS-II involves a confirmed nerve injury, while CRPS-I does not. People with CRPS-I may experience pain that spreads more widely, while in CRPS-II, the pain and motor issues are often more focused around the injured nerve.
Excessive and persistent inflammation after an injury, leading to nerve sensitisation and heightened pain response.
Antibodies targeting nerve cells may play a role.
Stress, anxiety and depression can amplify pain perception and result from chronic pain.
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications can alleviate mild pain, while doctors may prescribe stronger medications for more severe pain.
Nerve Pain Medications: Some medications originally designed for seizures, like gabapentin and pregabalin, can help reduce pain caused by nerve issues.
Antidepressants: Certain antidepressants can help with chronic pain, even if the individual isn't depressed.
Corticosteroids: These can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
Topical Treatments: Creams that numb the area or contain natural ingredients like capsaicin (from chili peppers) may provide relief when applied to the skin.
Physical Rehabilitation Exercises: A structured physical therapy program can help improve mobility, strength, and function in the affected limb.
Daily Living Skills: Occupational therapy can assist people in managing everyday tasks and adapting their environment to make life easier.
Pain Management Counseling: Working with a pain psychologist can assist in developing coping strategies and improving overall wellbeing.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy can teach strategies to manage pain and reduce stress.
Acupuncture: Some people find relief through acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body.
TENS Therapy: This method uses low-voltage electrical currents to help reduce pain.
Mindfulness Techniques: Practices like meditation and relaxation exercises can help individuals manage pain better.
Nerve Blocks: Injection of anesthetics or steroids around specific nerves can help alleviate pain and inflammation.
Spinal Cord Stimulation: This is a minimally-invasive option for managing chronic pain and it involves implanting a small device near the spinal cord that sends electrical impulses to interfere with pain signals traveling to the brain.
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