HomeHealth TopicsBrain NervesComplex Regional Pain Syndrome
Back to Brain Nerves
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Brain Nerves

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition characterized by intense pain, often following an injury to a nerve or tissue.

Overview

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that typically affects the arms, hands, legs, or feet. It may develop following an injury to a nerve or tissue in the affected area. Notably, rest and time may only exacerbate the condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms occurring in the affected area include:

  • Dramatic changes in skin temperature, color, or texture
  • Intense burning pain
  • Extreme skin sensitivity
  • Swelling and stiffness in affected joints
  • Decreased ability to move the affected body part

Diagnosis and Treatment

The cause of CRPS is currently unknown, and there is no specific diagnostic test available. Doctors diagnose the condition based on the patient's signs and symptoms.

There is no cure for CRPS. The condition can worsen over time and may spread to other parts of the body, though symptoms occasionally disappear temporarily or permanently. Treatment focuses on pain relief and may include medicines, physical therapy, and nerve blocks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Gentle, graded exercises are essential to prevent stiffness, but overly aggressive stretching can increase pain. Work with a therapist experienced in CRPS who uses “pain‑contingent” pacing, starts with low‑intensity range‑of‑motion movements, and gradually progresses based on your tolerance.
Common drugs include neuropathic agents (gabapentin, pregabalin), low‑dose tricyclic antidepressants, and short courses of steroids or bisphosphonates. Watch for dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, or mood changes with gabapentin/pregabalin, and for blood‑sugar spikes or mood swings with steroids. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your physician.
Seek urgent care if pain suddenly becomes excruciating, the affected limb turns markedly blue or black, you develop fever, or you notice rapid swelling that threatens circulation. These could signal tissue damage or infection that needs immediate treatment.
Look for disproportionate burning pain, swelling, skin color changes (red, pale, or mottled), temperature differences (warm or cool to touch), and extreme sensitivity to light touch that develop within weeks of the injury. If these appear, ask your doctor for a prompt evaluation.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

kontakt@hittavard.se

Ⓒ 2024. Alla rättigheter förbehålls av juxt ab

Sök
Om ossVillkor och policyVanliga frågorKontakta oss