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About CRPS Type I

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a complex and poorly understood condition that affects the arms and legs. It is marked by a burning pain and other changes that are often difficult to explain and do not respond well to conventional treatments.

  1. Identification

    • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a fairly rare and chronic condition that typically affects the arm or leg. The disease can result in a multitude of symptoms, but the actual cause behind the disease is not well understood. Women are, statistically speaking, more likely to be affected than men, and the disease typically affects those between the ages of 40 and 60, though it can occur at any age.

    Effects

    • The typical symptom of CRPS is an intense pain that is often described as "burning." The skin can also become very sensitive and change in texture and temperature; sometimes it may be sweaty and other times quite cold, in addition to changes in color. There can also be join stiffness, muscle spasms and weakness, as well as a decreased ability to move the affected body part.

    Features

    • CRPS is usually broken down into three stages. In the first stage, which typically lasts 1 to 3 months, the severe pain begins as well as the sensitivity, swelling and thinning of the skin. During the second stage, the swelling spreads and the color and texture changes become more obvious, as well as stiffness of the joint; this stage typically lasts 3 to 6 months. In the final stage, the severe damage is more obvious; the skin is irreversibly damaged and there is decreased ability to use the affected area.

    Types

    • There are two different types of CRPS. Type I, which used to be called reflex sympathetic dystrophy symptom, occurs after an injury to the area that doesn't appear to damage the nerve. This type is the most common, as 90 percent of all CRPS sufferers have type I. Type II is when there is observable damage to the nerve. CRPS can happen due to forceful trauma to the affected area, though it can also happen from surgery, infections, broken bones or even sprains.

    Prevention/Solution

    • One of the keys to alleviating CRPS is early diagnosis and treatment. Pharmaceutical options include treatments such as ibuprofen, or more potent drugs such as corticosteroids, antidepressants and opioids for the pain. Sometimes, alternately applying heat and cold to the area may provide relief, as well as a cream made of capsaicin, which is found in chili peppers. Other options that are effective in some people include physical therapy, nerve-blocking injections and electrical stimulation.

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