User:Mr. Ibrahem/Complex regional pain syndrome

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition characterized by prolonged and excessive pain and inflammation following an injury. Other symptoms often include swelling, skin changes, limited range of motion, and temperatures changes in the affected area. Most commonly it starts in a limb though may spread to other areas.

It is unclear why CRPS occurs. The trigger is typically some type of tissue injury, most commonly a bone fracture. Risk factors include psychological stress. The underlying mechanism involves abnormal neuronal transmission, autonomic dysregulation, and central sensitization. It is a type of neuropathic pain of which there are two subtypes. Diagnosis is based on symptoms after ruling out other potential causes.

Evidence for specific treatments is overall poor. Different measures may include physiotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, steroids, gabapentin, duloxetine, lidocaine patches, opioids, ketamine, bisphosphonates, and nerve blocks. Components of physiotherapy may include graded motor imagery and mirror therapy. Outcomes are variable.

CRPS newly affects about 6 per 100,000 people per year. Women are three times more commonly affected than men. Onset is often around the age of 40. The condition was first described in 1864 by Silas Weir Mitchell.