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Other Pain Disorders Freeport

Other Pain Disorders

Expert Treatment for Chronic Pain After Injury or Surgery

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a severe chronic pain disorder that typically begins after trauma, injury, or surgery — though in some cases, it develops without any clear cause. CRPS can affect multiple body regions at once, most often the arms or legs, and its symptoms can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. At iMsk & Spine Group, we approach CRPS with deep compassion, patience, and expertise. Our goal is to reduce pain, support nerve recovery, and help patients regain comfort and function wherever possible.
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What Is CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)?

CRPS is a complex disorder of the nervous system where the body responds abnormally to injury. Instead of healing normally, the affected nerves become highly sensitive, sending intense and often disproportionate pain signals.

CRPS can cause a combination of:

  • Nerve dysfunction
  • Abnormal inflammation
  • Circulation changes
  • Skin and hair changes
  • Muscle and bone effects

The condition may follow even minor injuries, sprains, or fractures — making it particularly relevant in both sports medicine and trauma care.

Common Causes of CRPS/RSD

CRPS often develops after injury, including:

Traumatic Causes

  • Sprains and strains
  • Fractures
  • Crush injuries
  • Dislocations
  • Sports-related impact injuries

Post-Surgical Causes

  • Joint surgeries (knee, ankle, shoulder, wrist)
  • Nerve decompression procedures
  • Orthopedic repairs

Other Causes

  • Infections
  • Immobilization (casting)
  • No identifiable cause (idiopathic CRPS)

Early recognition after trauma is crucial for best outcomes.

Sports Related Injuries | Conditions | iMsk & Spine Group | Long Island & Queens NY

Symptoms of CRPS/RSD

CRPS can produce a wide range of symptoms, sometimes more severe than the original injury.

Pain Symptoms

  • Severe burning or shooting pain
  • Extreme sensitivity to touch (even clothing can hurt)
  • Pain out of proportion to injury

Skin & Circulation Changes

  • Swelling
  • Skin temperature changes (hot or cold)
  • Color changes (red, purple, blue, or pale)
  • Shiny or thinning skin
  • Excessive or reduced sweating

Hair & Nail Changes

  • Faster or slowed hair growth
  • Brittle, thickened, or ridged nails

Motor Symptoms

  • Weakness
  • Tremors
  • Muscle spasms
  • Difficulty moving the affected limb
  • Contractures in advanced cases

Advanced Symptoms

  • Bone thinning
  • Severe muscle atrophy
  • Unbearable pain with movement
  • Joint contractures

These symptoms can appear gradually or rapidly depending on the stage.

The Three Stages of CRPS

CRPS may progress through stages, though not every patient experiences all three:

Stage 1: Acute Phase

  • Redness
  • Warmth
  • Swelling
  • Burning pain
  • Sensitivity to touch

Stage 2: Dystrophic Phase

  • Colder skin
  • Increased stiffness
  • Worsening pain
  • Hair and nail changes
  • Reduced movement

Stage 3: Atrophic Phase

  • Severe stiffness
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Joint contractures
  • Significant functional limitations

Early intervention provides the greatest chance of preventing progression.

How We Treat CRPS/RSD at iMsk & Spine Group

Because CRPS affects multiple systems in the body, treatment requires a comprehensive, multi-layered plan.

1. Pain Management

  • Nerve-calming medications
  • Anti-inflammatory treatments
  • Neuropathic pain therapies
  • Sympathetic nerve blocks
  • Advanced interventional pain procedures

2. Physical & Occupational Therapy

  • Gentle desensitization techniques
  • Range-of-motion exercises
  • Graded motor imagery
  • Mirror therapy
  • Strength and flexibility restoration

3. Psychological & Emotional Support

Chronic pain affects emotional health. Our team provides resources to help patients cope with anxiety, stress, and the emotional burden of CRPS.

4. Lifestyle & Home Strategies

  • Encouraging safe movement
  • Heat/cold guidance (used carefully)
  • Stress reduction techniques
  • Sleep improvement strategies

5. Long-Term Monitoring

CRPS requires close follow-up to adjust treatment and encourage steady improvement over time.

CRPS & RSD FAQ

Can CRPS be cured?

There is no single cure, but many patients experience meaningful symptom improvement with early, comprehensive treatment.

Does CRPS always get worse?

Not necessarily. Early intervention can stabilize or improve symptoms and prevent progression through the stages.

Is CRPS caused by psychological factors?

No. CRPS is a neurological and inflammatory condition, though emotional stress can worsen pain.

Can CRPS spread to other body parts?

It can in some cases, which is why early treatment is critical.

Why is CRPS pain so intense?

The nervous system becomes hypersensitive, sending amplified pain signals even without ongoing tissue damage.

Is exercise safe?

Yes — gentle, guided movement is essential and prevents long-term stiffness and loss of function.
Sports Related Injuries | Conditions | iMsk & Spine Group | Long Island & Queens NY