When Bound by pain: Complex Regional pain Syndrome
Imagine waking up one day with a pain so intense, it feels like your arm or leg is on fire, yet there’s no visible injury to explain it. For those living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) , this is not a fleeting nightmare but a daily reality. CRPS is a chronic pain condition that can turn lives upside down, leaving patients and their loved ones searching for answers. ( A Case of CRPS ) What is CRPS, and Why Should We Talk About It? CRPS is a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg, often following an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. The pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury and can be described as burning, stabbing, or shooting. Besides pain, patients may experience swelling, changes in skin color and temperature, and hypersensitivity to touch or cold ( Mayo Clinic ). Why is it important to talk about CRPS? Because it’s often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and increased ...