Are you often suffering from chronic pain from an injury or old injury that doesn’t seem to go away? Did you ever take pain medication and find that it doesn’t relieve the pain permanently? Complex regional pain syndrome could be the cause of your symptoms.
Talking to a professional chiropractor regarding your pain may help you to better understand your situation. Many chiropractors can help their patients manage their pain with specialized chiropractic treatment.
It is possible that CRPS could be caused by an injury, a complication after surgery, or a slipped disc.
A chiropractor will work with you to determine which of these options or which treatments are most effective for you. This will allow you to make the best decision about physical therapy to relieve chronic pain and treat reflex sympathetic dystrophy.
Next, you will learn about a healthy spine and how to care for it.
What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome refers to chronic pain, which is a prolonged pain lasting more than six months. Patients describe the pain as feeling like pins and needles. Some patients describe a burning sensation in their affected area or limb.
It is not known what causes CRPS.
Is CRPS a spine injury?
If CRPS is due to damage to peripheral sensory neurons and the peripheral nervous system, then these nerves can become dysfunctional and cause secondary effects on the brain, spinal cord, and brain.
Complex regional pain syndrome stages are in the following order.
Complex regional pain syndrome type 1
Also known as Type 1 or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome (RDS).
Regional pain syndrome CRPS is most commonly experienced by patients suffering from “type I” pain. The nerves were not affected by the injury or illness that caused CRPS. The patient still feels pain.
Complex regional pain syndrome 2
Type II directly affects nerves in the injured area. The symptoms of Type II may be the same as those experienced by Type I.
Type II (CRPSII) is a rare chronic condition that causes severe pain.
This neurological disorder causes severe pain, but it is not as serious as chronic pain. CRPS is a neurological condition that develops after an injury to the nerve or trauma to the peripheral nerve.
The peripheral nerves consist of a group of nerve fibres that run from the brain and spinal cord to the affected limb.
Signs of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Regional pain syndrome may appear like a regular injury.
- The affected area/affected limb’s skin appears thin
- Affected joints become stiff.
- Mobility and range of motion are reduced in the affected limb
- Patients may experience spasms or tremors in the area.
- Some people may experience swelling
- In the affected region, skin temperature fluctuations may also occur
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment Options
Nerve damage can often be a major source of pain syndrome when there are spine problems. To ensure a pain-free central nervous system, it is important to first address spinal and cord problems.
The central nervous system’s core is located in the spine. To ensure there are no misalignments, it is important to rule out potential catalysts such as pinched nerves in the affected leg.
There are many treatment options, including physical therapy. Some patients may also receive anti-inflammatory medication to manage chronic or severe pain.
Side effects are common with over-the-counter medication. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. Drowsiness is one of the most common side effects of OTC meds.
Corticosteroids, which are used to reduce inflammation, may also be prescribed. A nerve-blocking medication may be prescribed by your doctor. This medication prevents nerve fibres from feeling pain.
Chiropractic care for CRPS can include adjustments and spinal cord stimulation.
Before the patient begins treatment, a series of tests and examinations will be performed. This could include xrays, an MRI and a bone scan, to name a few.
Although there is no known cause of CRPS or nerve damage, it can be managed to help patients regain their quality of life.
Talk to a chiropractor if you have pain management issues.