CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)
CRPS Treatment Starts Here
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that can develop after an injury, surgery, or trauma—often affecting an arm, hand, leg, or foot. Symptoms may include severe burning pain, swelling, sensitivity to touch, and changes in skin color or temperature. At Mountain View Pain Center, we help evaluate your symptoms and build a plan focused on pain control, function, and quality of life, while guiding next steps when specialty coordination is appropriate.
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Common Symptoms of CRPS
Severe burning or deep aching pain (often out of proportion to the initial injury)
Extreme sensitivity to touch (even light contact can be painful)
Swelling in the affected limb
Skin color changes (red, pale, bluish)
Temperature changes (warmer or colder than the other side)
Changes in sweating in the affected area
Stiffness and reduced range of motion
Changes in hair/nail growth or skin texture
Weakness, tremor, or difficulty using the limb
Causes & Contributing Factors
Injury, fracture, sprain, or soft tissue trauma
Surgery or immobilization
Nerve sensitivity and abnormal pain signaling (often discussed in CRPS)
Prolonged inflammation and swelling
Stress and poor sleep can amplify symptoms and flare-ups
Symptoms and severity can vary widely—early evaluation is important
When to Seek Urgent Care
Seek urgent evaluation if you have signs of infection (fever/chills, spreading redness, drainage), sudden severe swelling, new significant weakness, chest pain/shortness of breath, or rapidly worsening symptoms. If your symptoms are severe and new after injury or surgery, prompt evaluation is appropriate.
How We Evaluate Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
CRPS is typically evaluated based on symptom pattern and clinical findings over time. We start by reviewing your history, timeline from injury/surgery, symptom progression, and functional limitations. Your visit may include assessment of swelling, temperature/color changes, sensitivity patterns, and movement limitations, along with a neurologic screen when appropriate. If additional testing, imaging, or specialty coordination is needed to support diagnosis and rule out other causes, we’ll guide the next steps.
How We Treat CRPS
Treatment is individualized and focuses on symptom control and restoring function as much as possible.
Pain Management
Treatment is individualized and focuses on symptom control and restoring function as much as possible.
Physical Therapy
Gentle, graded movement and desensitization-focused strategies to improve function and reduce guarding over time.
Chiropractic Care
Hands-on care to support mobility and reduce contributing tension patterns, tailored to your symptoms and comfort.
Acupuncture
A supportive option that may help reduce discomfort and support relaxation as part of a broader plan.
Treatments We Commonly Recommend
Desensitization and graded exposure strategies (as tolerated)
Gentle mobility and function-focused strengthening
Activity pacing and flare-up planning
Sleep and stress-support strategies
Coordinated care pathway when additional specialty evaluation is appropriate
A consistent home program focused on gradual progress
Home Care & Quick Relief
Ice for 10–15 minutes at a time if it helps reduce discomfort (use caution if extreme cold sensitivity is present)
Gentle movement within tolerance to avoid stiffness
Light touch/desensitization strategies as recommended by your care team
Keep routines consistent; avoid large activity spikes during flare-ups
Prioritize sleep consistency (pain sensitivity often worsens with poor sleep)
CRPS FAQs
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CRPS is a chronic pain condition that can develop after injury or surgery and may involve severe pain, swelling, sensitivity, and skin changes in a limb.
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CRPS varies widely. Many people improve with a coordinated plan focused on function and symptom management. Early evaluation and consistent care can be important.
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CRPS can affect how the nervous system regulates circulation and sensitivity in the affected area, which may lead to visible changes.
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Yes. Gentle, graded movement and desensitization strategies can help improve function over time, tailored to tolerance.
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Treatment is individualized. Many people benefit from coordinated care that supports symptom relief, movement, and function, with pain management involvement as appropriate.
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Often, no. Some insurance plans require a referral or authorization—if you’re unsure, we can help verify.