Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Treatment of complex regional pain syndrome aims to reduce pain, restore function, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Since no single treatment is universally effective, management of CRPS is often multidisciplinary, involving a combination of medications, physical therapy, psychological support, and sometimes interventional procedures.
Medications
Various medications help control CRPS symptoms:
Pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen for inflammation and mild pain
Neuropathic pain medications: Amitriptyline, gabapentin, or pregabalin
Corticosteroids: Short-term use to reduce inflammation and swelling
Bisphosphonates: May help with bone pain and density loss
Topical creams: Such as lidocaine or capsaicin for localised relief
Opioids are usually avoided due to dependence risks and poor long-term effectiveness.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Maintaining movement is crucial. A physiotherapist can help with:
Graded exercises to restore strength and flexibility
Desensitisation techniques
Joint mobilisation and muscle stretching
Occupational therapy focuses on adapting daily activities and improving function.
Psychological Support
Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and fear of movement. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling help patients develop coping strategies and maintain emotional well-being.
Interventional Treatments | Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
For severe cases, interventional options may be explored:
Nerve blocks: Temporary relief through local anaesthetic injections
Spinal cord stimulation: An implanted device modulates pain signals
Sympathectomy: A surgical option, now rarely used, to cut sympathetic nerves
Mirror therapy, graded motor imagery, and virtual reality therapies are emerging treatments aimed at retraining the brain’s pain processing.
In summary, treatment must be personalised and proactive. Early, multidisciplinary intervention offers the best chance for symptom control and functional recovery.
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