4 Things You Need to Know About CRPS After an Injury

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating, chronic condition that can impact nearly every aspect of your life. It causes extreme pain, changes in skin color, and other symptoms in a certain part of your body, such as an arm, hand, foot, or leg. CRPS usually occurs after an injury, such as a fracture, sprain, or even minor trauma. Given the far-reaching and complex nature of the condition, it can be difficult to cope. Here are four things you should know about CRPS after an injury.

1. CRPS Can’t be Left Untreated

This is pretty obvious. Leaving CRPS untreated can incur irreversible damage. Some consequences include:

• Progression of pain - Pain can spread beyond the initial injury site and become intense over time. 
• Loss of muscle function - Over time, muscles can become weak, leading to permanent disability and loss of function. 
• Muscle atrophy - prolonged CRPS can lead to the shrinking of muscle tissue and a decrease in muscle mass. You can also experience bone deterioration. 

CRPS can dramatically decrease the quality of your life, which is why leaving it untreated is not an option. 

2. There is No Single Diagnostic Test for CRPS

Unlike infections, there is no single diagnostic test for CRPS. It is a neurological condition, and a diagnosis is made by ruling out other conditions. 

Healthcare professionals look at a combination of symptoms indicative of CRPS. This includes:

• Swelling

• Burning pain

• Noticeable change of skin color

• Changes in skin temperature

• Stiffness

• Extreme sensitivity to touch

• Abnormal movement in the affected limb

• Decreased range of motion, weakness, or tremor

Look at it this way: A broken bone takes about 6 to 8 weeks to heal. But if a broken arm is causing shooting pain even after 6 months, there is a chance you might be suffering from CRPS. Your doctor will also conduct tests, such as an MRI or a triple-phase bone scan, to rule out other conditions. 

3. CRPS Can be Caused by Someone’s Negligence

In many cases, CRPS can be caused by someone else’s negligence. We’ve already established that CRPS occurs post-injury, such as a sprain, fracture, or limb immobilization. If the initial injury is the result of a negligent act, you have a basis for a claim. 

CRPS can also result from various personal injuries, such as road accidents, workplace incidents, pedestrian collisions, dog bites, slip-and-fall accidents, and motorcycle crashes. If  this is the case, hire a personal injury lawyer who specializes in CRPS. A California CRPS lawyer will assess the value of your claim and gather evidence. They will increase your chances of getting fairly compensated. 

4. CRPS Can Impact Emotional Well-being

Unfortunately, CRPS can have a deep-seated impact on your emotional well-being, and a lot of people aren’t ready for it. People experience depression, anxiety, social isolation, sleep disturbances, frustration and fear. The brain and body are deeply intertwined. When a limb is suffering from intense and prolonged pain, it overstimulates emotional centres in the brain. This reduces resilience and impairs daily function. 

Conclusion 

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is more than just lingering pain. It’s a multifaceted condition that demands attention, understanding, and proactive care. Whether you're grappling with unexplained symptoms months after an injury or facing emotional challenges tied to chronic pain, recognizing the signs of CRPS is the first step toward reclaiming control. Early intervention can prevent irreversible damage, and knowing that CRPS may stem from someone else’s negligence opens the door to legal recourse and rightful compensation. Just as important is acknowledging the emotional toll CRPS can take and seeking support to protect your mental health. With the right medical guidance, legal advocacy, and emotional care, living with CRPS doesn’t have to mean suffering in silence.