Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Have you been experiencing a chronic, burning pain in an area on your body? Is it usually followed by a discoloration of the skin, inflammation or extreme sensitivity around the area? If so, these may be signs of an increasingly frequent disease called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

CRPS may be a result of an injury to both the central or peripheral nervous systems. Although there is still uncertainty as to how CRPS develops, in most cases it is set off by previous injuries such as sprains, fractures, bruises, etc. Ranked on the McGill pain index as the most severe type of unrelieved pain, CRPS can be extremely limiting to your daily life. It is important to recognize the symptoms associated with CRPS, as taking defensive measures early on can significantly alleviate this disease.

Heed the Warning Signs

Besides the chronic, burning pain, there are other warning signs that may point to CRPS being the culprit of your discomfort. Some of the symptoms include:

  • Tenderness, bruising of the skin
  • Increased temperature around painful areas
  • Extreme sensitivity to touch, vibration and even noise
  • Stiff joints
  • Difficulty/pain in moving the affected body part
  • Sporadic cramps
  • Insomnia/depression
  • Short term memory loss
  • Increased irritability

If you are feeling the symptoms listed above, it could be CRPS. Due to the relatability of the symptoms to other less harmful diseases and problems, CRPS is extremely difficult to diagnose. Yet, if it is indeed CRPS, finding out sooner rather than later can immensely help recovery. That’s why early detection, a detailed and accurate analysis of the symptoms and correct treatment are crucial in keeping CRPS at bay.

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Find Support at Total Pain Care

While there is not a definitive cure for CRPS, containment and relief is possible. The board-certified healthcare professionals at Total Pain Care are experts in evaluating your discomfort to create a custom pain management plan to help you find relief. Contact Total Pain Care in New Jersey for the support you deserve.

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  1. Ronald Amaya, PA-C is a Physician Assistant. He attended Weill Cornell Medical College and received his physician assistant degree in NYC. He has 18 years of experience in cardiothoracic surgery and over 8 years in pain management. Dr. Amaya is NCCPA board-certified in medicine and surgery.

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  4. David D. Ford, MD is the Director of Pain Management. Dr. Ford earned a medical degree and completed his residencies in both surgery and anesthesiology. He joined the staff of Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates Watertown in 1990. He is board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain management. Dr. Ford specializes in painful disorders of the spine and sports-related injuries. He has initiated the use of advanced interventional techniques for the successful treatment of these and other conditions.

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