Physical Therapy for Treating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Abstract

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain state that mainly affects one limb (arm, leg, hand, or foot) generally after an injury. CRPS is caused by damage to or malfunction of the peripheral and central nervous systems. The central nervous system is comprised of the brain and spinal cord; the peripheral nervous system involves nerve signaling from the brain and spinal cord to the other part of the body. CRPS is characterized by lengthened or extreme pain and changes in skin color, temperature, and swelling in the affected area. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, medical treatment, and psychotherapy play a significant role in the primary treatment of CRPS type I as noninvasive procedures. Despite deep criticism, invasive sympathetic block, succeeding to adequate diagnostics, is a vital part of the therapeutic concept. A multimodal therapeutic concept, which involves all available possibilities, is very necessary to avoid permanent disabilities caused by inadequate or failed therapy.