Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Dr. Howard Cohen understands the frustrations and concerns of patients with chronic health conditions. At Mind + Body Medicine in Dallas, he provides personalized care and comprehensive treatment plans for patients suffering with hard-to-treat conditions, including Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Dr. Cohen has helped patients from all over Texas and neighboring states to find relief from CRPS symptoms.
Find relief from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.
What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, often referred to as CRPS, is a rare and complicated chronic pain condition that can affect any part of the body. It typically arises as a result of an injury or trauma, although the pain experienced can be disproportionate to the initial injury. CRPS is characterized by intense, burning, and continuous pain, often accompanied by changes in skin color, temperature, and texture. This condition can severely impact a person's quality of life.
Risk Factors for CRPS
While CRPS can affect anyone, and an exact cause is often unknown, some factors may increase the risk of developing this condition:1
Injury or Trauma: CRPS often follows injuries such as fractures, sprains, surgeries, or even minor traumas.
Surgery: Certain surgeries may trigger CRPS.
Gender: It's more common in women than in men.
Age: CRPS can occur at any age, but it is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to CRPS.
Symptoms of CRPS
CRPS symptoms can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include:
Severe, burning pain: The pain can be constant and may worsen over time.
Changes in skin: This can include swelling, redness, or a shiny appearance.
Temperature fluctuations: The affected limb may feel warmer or cooler than the opposite limb.
Limited range of motion: Stiffness and decreased mobility are common.
Sensory changes: Increased sensitivity to touch, cold, or heat.
Muscle weakness: Weakening of the affected limb may occur.
Nail and hair changes: Nails and hair may grow faster or slower on the affected limb.
Treatment Options for CRPS
Treatment for CRPS is individualized and may include:
Medication
There are a variety of prescription medicines that can be used to treat CRPS, including medications that target nerve pain and others that reduce bone damage. Dr. Cohen can review which medications have worked or not worked for you in the past in order to make recommendations for medications that may be best for you. His specialization in neuro-psychopharmacology informs his integrative approach to medication recommendations.
Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine, a non-opioid anesthetic medication, has been shown to provide effective pain relief for CRPS patients, even when other treatments do not work. Ketamine therapy can impact essential neurotransmitter systems, fostering neural plasticity, regulating mood, and providing lasting relief from pain. This distinct mode of action enables it to overcome the constraints of traditional medications, providing a viable solution for those who have faced challenges in finding effective treatments.
Brain Stimulation
Dr. Cohen is highly experienced in using brain stimulation, a non-surgical and painless procedure, to treat chronic conditions. With transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) using the state-of-the-art CloudTMS system, as well as peripheral magnetic stimulation (PMS), Dr. Cohen can activate the nervous system to improve CRPS symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes
CRPS is a chronic condition that does not always have a quick or easy solution. Dr. Cohen can recommend lifestyle changes, behavioral health support, and coping strategies to help patients manage the day-to-day challenges of CRPS.
Frequently Asked Questions about CRPS
Can CRPS be cured?
A: While there is no definitive cure for CRPS, effective management and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and reduce symptoms.
Is CRPS a psychological condition?
No, CRPS is a physical condition, but it can have psychological effects due to the chronic pain and disability it causes.
How long does CRPS last?
The duration of CRPS varies from person to person. Some individuals experience temporary symptoms, while others may have chronic symptoms that persist for years.
Is there hope for managing CRPS pain?
Yes, there is hope. Dr. Cohen is dedicated to helping you find the right combination of treatments to manage your pain effectively and improve your quality of life.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one suffer with CRPS, we can help—even if you have not had positive experiences with treatments in the past. Dr. Cohen has dedicated his career to helping patients find relief from chronic conditions so that they can live healthier, happier lives. Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cohen.