COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME (CRPS) PASADENA

• Trauma or Injury: CRPS often follows an injury such as a fracture, sprain, or surgery, though it can sometimes occur without an obvious trigger.
• Surgical Procedures: Surgeries, particularly those involving the limbs, can sometimes lead to CRPS.
• Infections: Infections that involve the affected limb may contribute to the development of CRPS.
• Nerve Damage: Damage to the peripheral nerves or central nervous system can play a role in the development of CRPS.
• Immune System Dysfunction: Abnormal immune responses or autoimmune processes may be involved in the development of CRPS.
• Genetic Factors: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing CRPS, though this area requires more research.

• Severe Pain: Persistent, intense pain that is often described as burning, throbbing, or aching. The pain is usually out of proportion to the initial injury.
• Swelling: Swelling in the affected limb, which can sometimes spread to surrounding areas.
• Changes in Skin Color: The skin may appear red, purple, or blotchy, often with noticeable differences between the affected and unaffected limbs.
• Temperature Changes: The affected limb may feel unusually hot or cold compared to other parts of the body.
• Motor Dysfunction: Difficulty with movement, including weakness, tremors, or reduced range of motion in the affected limb.
• Skin Changes: The skin may become thin, shiny, or dry, and there may be changes in hair and nail growth.
• Sweating Abnormalities: Excessive sweating or a lack of sweating in the affected area.
• Joint Stiffness: Stiffness and limited mobility in the affected joints.

Preventing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome involves taking proactive steps to minimize the risk of developing this condition, especially after an injury or trauma. Key strategies include seeking prompt and appropriate medical treatment for injuries, adhering to rehabilitation protocols, and engaging in preventive care to ensure proper healing and function. Additionally, addressing any signs of abnormal pain or swelling early can help prevent the progression of symptoms. At the Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles, treatment options for CRPS are tailored to the individual and may include a combination of advanced therapies such as physical therapy to improve mobility, pain management techniques, interventional procedures like nerve blocks, and psychological support to help manage the emotional aspects of chronic pain. Their comprehensive approach aims to alleviate symptoms, enhance function, and improve overall quality of life for those affected by CRPS.

At Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific condition and needs. Our goal is to alleviate pain and restore function through personalized care plans, which may include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, corticosteroids, and medications to manage nerve pain.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve mobility and reduce pain.
• Nerve Blocks: Injections to block pain signals from affected nerves.
• Spinal Cord Stimulation: Devices that use electrical impulses to relieve chronic pain.
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At Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles, we specialize in diagnosing and treating CRPS with precision and care. Here’s our diagnostic approach:

• Comprehensive Medical History: We take a detailed medical history, focusing on any recent injuries, surgeries, or illnesses.
• Physical Examination: We assess the affected area for signs of CRPS, including changes in skin color, temperature, and swelling.
• Diagnostic Tests: While no specific test confirms CRPS, we may use bone scans, MRI, or X-rays to rule out other conditions and identify changes in bone density or tissue.

Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan. If you suspect you have CRPS, contact Spine & Pain Institute Los Angeles. Our dedicated team is here to provide expert care and guide you on your path to recovery.