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RSD/CRPS

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What Is RSD/CRPS?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD), occurs when elevated levels of nerve impulses are sent to a particular area. It causes chronic pain, is more common in women than men, and is most prevalent in individuals between the ages of 20 and 35.

RSD/CRPS Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • Unrelenting pain often spreading upwards from an initial injury
  • Loss of mobility
  • Swelling, stiff, tender joints
  • Extreme sensitivity to stimuli including to cold air or light touch from clothes
  • Changes in the appearance of the skin. Initially, the skin may be warm and red, while later it may develop a bluish cast

RSD/CRPS Diagnosis

An experienced pain management doctor will be able to accurately diagnose your case of CRPS. This condition has so many symptoms that can be confused with other health problems that getting an accurate diagnosis is important.

Diagnosing CRPS involves taking a comprehensive medical history, tests such as MRIs and X-rays, and analyzing the conditions surrounding your pain. CRPS is considered when a patient experiences a higher than expected amount of pain from an injury and a change in appearance to the affected area.

CRPS/RSD Treatment

Treatment for CRPS is aimed at relieving as many of the painful symptoms of the disease as possible. There is no cure for the condition, but by working with a doctor with experience treating CRPS, it is possible to regain control of your life. There are a variety of treatment options that do not involve surgery and provide great results.

  • Nerve blocks: Nerve blocks are an excellent source of pain relief for many people. Anesthetic is placed alongside the spine, blocking the affected nerves.
  • Spinal cord stimulation: Electrodes alongside the spine provide pain relief.

Physical therapy, pain medication and corticosteroids are often used along with these treatment options, to provide a comprehensive pain management plan.

At Pain & Spine Center of Charlottesville, we have more than 15 years of experience providing treatment options for patients suffering from CRPS and RSD. Call us today at 434-328-2774 to schedule your appointment!