Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

Persistent, disproportionate pain in a limb, usually after an injury.

Overview

Complex regional pain syndrome is persistent pain in a limb that is out of proportion to the original injury, with changes in skin, temperature, swelling and movement. Early, graded rehabilitation and a multidisciplinary approach are important.

Symptoms

Severe, burning pain in a limb
Swelling and skin colour or temperature changes
Heightened sensitivity to touch
Stiffness and reduced use of the limb

Causes

Often follows an injury, surgery or immobilisation
Altered nervous-system pain processing
Not fully understood

Treatment

Early, graded movement and desensitisation
Pain education and self-management
Multidisciplinary pain management
Maintaining function of the limb