Complex Regional Pain Disorder
ANSWERS
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain typically affecting one’s arm or leg. CRPS usually develops due to an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. The pain is excessive in comparison to the severity of the initial injury.
CRPS is uncommon, and its etiology is unknown. When treatment begins early, it is most effective. Improvement and even remission are possible in such cases.
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain typically affecting one’s arm or leg.
CRPS usually develops due to an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. The pain is excessive in comparison to the severity of the initial injury.
CRPS is uncommon, and its etiology is unknown. When treatment begins early, it is most effective. Improvement and even remission are possible in such cases.
The cause of CRPS is not fully understood. It is thought to be caused by a difference or injury to the peripheral and central nervous systems. CRPS is usually caused by trauma or an injury.
CRPS is classified into two types, each with similar signs and symptoms but distinct causes:
Type 1.
This type, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), develops following an illness or injury that does not directly damage the nerves in the affected limb. Type 1 CRPS affects approximately 90% of people.
Type 2.
This type, formerly known as causalgia, exhibits symptoms similar to type 1. However, type 2 CRPS develops after a specific nerve injury.
Many cases of CRPS develop due to a traumatic injury to an arm or leg. This can include a fracture or a crushing injury.
Other major and minor traumas, such as surgery, heart attacks, infections, and sprained ankles, can also result in CRPS.
It is unclear why these injuries can result in CRPS. Not everyone who sustains such an injury will develop CRPS. It could be due to an unusual interaction between your central and peripheral nervous systems and different inflammatory responses.
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