What is a CRPS diagnosis?

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What is a CRPS diagnosis?​

C omplex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic (lasting greater than six months) pain condition that most often affects one limb (arm, leg, hand, or foot) usually after an injury. CRPS is believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of, the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Can complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) be cured?​

Complex regional pain syndrome is uncommon, and its cause isn’t clearly understood. Treatment is most effective when started early. In such cases, improvement and even remission are possible. CRPS typically develops after an injury, surgery, heart attack, or stroke. The pain is out of proportion to the initial event.
What is the history of CRPS (causalgia)?
The condition currently known as CRPS was originally described during the American Civil War by Silas Weir Mitchell, who is sometimes also credited with inventing the name “causalgia.”. However, this term was actually coined by Mitchell’s friend Robley Dunglison from the Greek words for heat and for pain.
What is the prevalence of CRPS in the US?
Investigators estimate that 2–5% of those with peripheral nerve injury, and 13-70 percent of those with hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body), will develop CRPS. In addition, some studies have indicated that cigarette smoking was strikingly present in patients and is statistically linked to RSD.

What medications are used to treat CRPS?​

corticosteroids that treat inflammation/swelling and edema, such as prednisolone and methylprednisolone (used mostly in the early stages of CRPS) drugs initially developed to treat seizures or depression but now shown to be effective for neuropathic pain, such as gabapentin, pregabalin, amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and duloxetine

Can opioids be used to treat RSD?​

In a few moments we will engage experts from Germany, from Sweden, as well as from universities throughout the United States in a live, interactive discussion over the Internet. This symposium will focus on the use of opioids to treat RSD in both adults and in children.
What are the most common triggers for CRPS?
The most common triggers are fractures, sprains/strains, soft tissue injury (such as burns, cuts, or bruises), limb immobilization (such as being in a cast), surgery, or even minor medical procedures such as needle stick. CRPS represents an abnormal response that magnifies the effects of the injury.