Zespół bólowy kompleksowy
Etiologia i przyczyny

Zespół bólowy kompleksowy (CRPS) to przewlekły, wieloczynnikowy stan bólowy rozwijający się najczęściej po urazie, takim jak złamania (zwłaszcza kości nadgarstka), zabiegi chirurgiczne, skręcenia czy oparzenia, prowadzący do uszkodzenia cienkich włókien nerwowych czuciowych i autonomicznych. Patofizjologia CRPS obejmuje zaburzenia funkcjonowania obwodowego i ośrodkowego układu nerwowego, w tym sensytyzację obwodową i ośrodkową, dysfunkcję układu współczulnego oraz reorganizację korową. Istotną rolę odgrywają mechanizmy zapalne i immunologiczne, z podwyższonymi poziomami cytokin prozapalnych (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alfa) oraz obecnością autoprzeciwciał IgG skierowanych przeciw receptorom autonomicznym. Dodatkowo obserwuje się zaburzenia mikrokrążenia, wazokonstrykcję tętnic oraz zwiększoną przepuszczalność naczyń, co prowadzi do niedotlenienia tkanek i obrzęku. CRPS występuje częściej u kobiet (3-4 razy) oraz osób w wieku 50-74 lat, a czynniki genetyczne, takie jak polimorfizmy genów HLA i TNF-alfa, mogą predysponować do cięższego przebiegu choroby.

Etiologia zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

Zespół bólowy kompleksowy (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, CRPS) to przewlekły stan bólowy, który najczęściej rozwija się po urazie lub innym zdarzeniu medycznym. Mimo intensywnych badań, dokładna przyczyna CRPS pozostaje niejasna, a mechanizmy patofizjologiczne są złożone i wieloczynnikowe. Obecny stan wiedzy wskazuje na zaburzenia w obrębie centralnego i obwodowego układu nerwowego, układu immunologicznego oraz procesów zapalnych, które wspólnie przyczyniają się do rozwoju tego schorzenia.123

Czynniki wyzwalające

W ponad 90% przypadków CRPS rozwija się w następstwie urazu lub uszkodzenia tkanek, które prowadzi do uszkodzenia najcieńszych włókien nerwowych czuciowych i autonomicznych.24 Najczęstszymi czynnikami wyzwalającymi są:

  • Złamania kości – stanowią najczęstszą przyczynę rozwoju CRPS, szczególnie złamania kości nadgarstka256
  • Zabiegi chirurgiczne – różne elementy operacji mogą powodować uszkodzenie nerwów, w tym nacięcie, narzędzia używane do utrzymania rany otwartej, szwy i proces bliznowacenia78
  • Skręcenia i naciągnięcia – nawet pozornie mniej poważne urazy tkanek miękkich79
  • Oparzenia, odmrożenia lub skaleczenia – mogą uszkodzić leżące głębiej nerwy710
  • Unieruchomienie kończyny – np. przez ciasny gips911
  • Zdarzenia medyczne – takie jak zawał serca, udar mózgu lub infekcja112
  • Bezpośrednie uszkodzenie nerwów – szczególnie w CRPS typu II (dawniej zwane kauzalgią)1314

Warto zauważyć, że w około 5-10% przypadków CRPS może rozwinąć się bez wyraźnego urazu inicjującego, co nazywa się CRPS idiopatycznym lub spontanicznym.1516 W takich przypadkach możliwe jest, że nierozpoznany wewnętrzny uraz nerwu, taki jak tarcie lub naprężenie nerwu na twardych strukturach wewnętrznych lub bliznach, może być przyczyną.4

Mechanizmy patofizjologiczne

Patofizjologia CRPS jest złożona i obejmuje wiele współdziałających mechanizmów:1718

Dysfunkcja układu nerwowego

CRPS wiąże się z zaburzeniami w funkcjonowaniu zarówno obwodowego, jak i ośrodkowego układu nerwowego:1920

  • Uszkodzenie włókien nerwowych – szczególnie cienkich, niemielinizowanych włókien C odpowiedzialnych za przewodzenie bólu216
  • Sensytyzacja obwodowa – włókna nerwowe stają się nadwrażliwe na bodźce, co prowadzi do nieprawidłowego przekazywania sygnałów bólowych2223
  • Sensytyzacja ośrodkowa – zmiany w obrębie rdzenia kręgowego i mózgu powodują wzmocnienie sygnałów bólowych i ich nieprawidłowe przetwarzanie2224
  • Dysfunkcja układu współczulnego – nadaktywność układu współczulnego prowadzi do zaburzeń w regulacji przepływu krwi i funkcji gruczołów2526
  • Reorganizacja korowa – zmiana reprezentacji kory somatosensorycznej uszkodzonej kończyny2718
Procesy zapalne i immunologiczne

Mechanizmy zapalne i immunologiczne odgrywają istotną rolę w patogenezie CRPS:2820

  • Nadmierna odpowiedź zapalna – po urazie dochodzi do nieprawidłowej, nasilonej reakcji zapalnej2930
  • Zapalenie neurogenne – uwalnianie cytokin prozapalnych i neuropeptydów bezpośrednio przez nocyceptory w odpowiedzi na różne czynniki przyczynowe3123
  • Podwyższony poziom cytokin prozapalnych – takich jak IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alfa w tkankach osób z CRPS3231
  • Czynniki autoimmunologiczne – u niektórych pacjentów wykryto autoprzeciwciała IgG skierowane przeciwko receptorom autonomicznym2833
Zaburzenia naczyniowe

W CRPS obserwuje się nieprawidłowości w funkcjonowaniu naczyń krwionośnych:2434

  • Wazokonstrykcja tętnic – zwężenie naczyń krwionośnych wpływające na przepływ krwi2435
  • Zaburzenia mikrokrążenia – prowadzące do niedotlenienia tkanek i ich uszkodzenia3125
  • Zwiększona przepuszczalność naczyń – powodująca obrzęk i naciek zapalny34

Czynniki ryzyka i predyspozycje

Istnieją pewne czynniki, które mogą zwiększać ryzyko rozwoju CRPS po urazie:1217

Czynniki genetyczne

Badania sugerują udział czynników genetycznych w rozwoju CRPS:3637

  • Polimorfizmy genów HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) i TNF-alfa mogą przyczyniać się do wcześniejszego początku i większego nasilenia objawów336
  • Rodzinne występowanie CRPS – pacjenci z rodzinnym wywiadem CRPS często mają wcześniejszy początek, nawroty, rozprzestrzenianie się na wiele miejsc i/lub dystonię3828
  • Pojedyncze polimorfizmy nukleotydowe w genach ulegających ekspresji w neuronach obwodowego układu nerwowego i komórkach immunologicznych36
Czynniki demograficzne i zdrowotne

Określone czynniki demograficzne i stany zdrowotne mogą wpływać na ryzyko rozwoju CRPS:3940

  • Płeć – CRPS występuje 3-4 razy częściej u kobiet niż u mężczyzn3940
  • Wiek – najczęściej dotyka osoby w wieku 50-74 lat, rzadko występuje u dzieci i osób starszych3940
  • Choroby współistniejące – takie jak zaburzenia krążenia, cukrzyca, choroby autoimmunologiczne czy migreny1228
  • Starszy wiek podczas urazu, szczególnie w przypadku złamań kości promieniowej17
  • Stosowanie leków – niektóre badania wskazują na związek między stosowaniem inhibitorów ACE w momencie urazu a zwiększonym ryzykiem CRPS2841
Czynniki psychologiczne

Rola czynników psychologicznych w CRPS jest przedmiotem debaty:4238

  • Stres psychologiczny w momencie urazu może przyczynić się do nasilenia objawów i wpływać na ogólne rokowanie343
  • Stany psychiczne takie jak depresja czy lęk mogą wpływać na percepcję bólu3738
  • Związek przyczynowy – obecnie badania wskazują, że czynniki psychologiczne nie odgrywają głównej roli w powstawaniu CRPS, z wyjątkiem przypadków ekstremalnego stresu4329

Klasyfikacja zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

Zespół bólowy kompleksowy dzieli się na dwa główne typy, które różnią się przyczynami, ale mogą prezentować podobne objawy kliniczne:1344

CRPS typu I

Dawniej znany jako dystrofia współczulno-odruchowa (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, RSD):4544

  • Stanowi około 90% wszystkich przypadków CRPS442
  • Rozwija się po urazie lub chorobie, które nie spowodowały bezpośredniego uszkodzenia nerwu4546
  • Może wystąpić po stosunkowo niewielkich urazach, takich jak skręcenia, stłuczenia czy nawet procedury medyczne47

CRPS typu II

Dawniej znany jako kauzalgia:1314

  • Występuje po wyraźnym i zidentyfikowanym uszkodzeniu nerwu obwodowego4514
  • Może być spowodowany urazami penetrującymi, złamaniami, amputacją lub operacjami1446
  • Mechanizm bólu może być bezpośrednio związany z uszkodzeniem nerwu1348

Niektórzy eksperci proponują również dodatkowy podtyp – CRPS-NOS (Not Otherwise Specified), dla przypadków, które nie spełniają w pełni kryteriów diagnostycznych dla typów I lub II.49 Inni badacze sugerują podział fenotypowy na centralny, obwodowy i mieszany, w oparciu o wzorce objawów, jednak kliniczna istotność tych klasyfikacji pozostaje niejasna.13

Patomechanizmy leżące u podstaw zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

Patofizjologia zespołu bólowego kompleksowego jest złożona i wieloczynnikowa. Badania wskazują na współdziałanie kilku mechanizmów, które razem przyczyniają się do rozwoju i podtrzymywania tego schorzenia.1718

Mechanizmy neurologiczne

Zaburzenia neurologiczne stanowią kluczowy element patogenezy CRPS:2219

  • Uwrażliwienie obwodowe – po urazie inicjującym dochodzi do uwrażliwienia obwodowych neuronów nocyceptywnych. Wydzielanie mediatorów prozapalnych aktywuje i uwrażliwia receptory bólowe, powodując nadmierną reakcję na bodźce, które normalnie nie wywołałyby bólu (allodynia) lub wzmocnioną reakcję na bodźce bólowe (hiperalgezja)2223
  • Uwrażliwienie ośrodkowe – przewlekła stymulacja przez włókna bólowe prowadzi do neuroplastycznych zmian w rdzeniu kręgowym i mózgu. Neurony rdzenia kręgowego stają się nadreaktywne, powodując amplifikację sygnałów bólowych i rozszerzenie obszaru odbierającego ból poza pierwotne miejsce urazu2231
  • Dysregulacja układu współczulnego – u pacjentów z CRPS obserwuje się zaburzenia w funkcjonowaniu układu współczulnego, co może prowadzić do nieprawidłowej regulacji przepływu krwi, temperatury i potliwości. Badania wykazały zwiększoną liczbę receptorów adrenergicznych w skórze pacjentów z CRPS4150
  • Patologiczna interakcja między noradrenaliną a receptorami bólowymi – receptory bólowe mogą stać się wrażliwe na katecholaminy (noradrenalina, adrenalina), prowadząc do bólu podtrzymywanego przez układ współczulny2550
  • Reorganizacja korowa – badania neuroobrazowe wykazały zmiany w reprezentacji somatosensorycznej dotkniętej kończyny w korze mózgowej. Obszar reprezentujący chorą kończynę jest zwykle zmniejszony w porównaniu do kończyny zdrowej2718

Procesy zapalne i immunologiczne

Nieprawidłowe reakcje immunologiczne i zapalne odgrywają istotną rolę w patogenezie CRPS:2520

  • Zapalenie neurogenne – uwalnianie neuropeptydów zapalnych (substancja P, peptyd związany z genem kalcytoniny) z zakończeń nerwowych prowadzi do rozszerzenia naczyń, zwiększonej przepuszczalności naczyń i obrzęku3431
  • Cytokiny prozapalne – w tkankach pacjentów z CRPS wykryto podwyższone poziomy cytokin prozapalnych (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alfa), które nasilają i podtrzymują proces zapalny3231
  • Aktywacja komórek immunologicznych – nacieki makrofagów, neutrofilów i limfocytów CD4+ w tkankach dotkniętych CRPS31
  • Mechanizmy autoimmunologiczne – u niektórych pacjentów wykryto autoprzeciwciała IgG skierowane przeciwko receptorom autonomicznym, a pozytywna odpowiedź na leczenie immunoglobulinami sugeruje udział mechanizmów autoimmunologicznych2833

Zaburzenia naczyniowe

Dysfunkcja naczyń krwionośnych przyczynia się do objawów klinicznych CRPS:2425

  • Zaburzenia mikrokrążenianieprawidłowa regulacja przepływu krwi prowadzi do naprzemiennego niedokrwienia i przekrwienia tkanek31
  • Niedotlenienie tkanek – przewlekłe zaburzenia perfuzji prowadzą do hipoksji tkanek, co może przyczyniać się do bólu i zmian troficznych25
  • Zaburzenia funkcji śródbłonka – mogą prowadzić do zwiększonej przepuszczalności naczyń i obrzęku34

Czynniki psychologiczne

Choć CRPS nie jest zaburzeniem psychologicznym, czynniki psychologiczne mogą wpływać na przebieg choroby:4243

  • Stres – może nasilać objawy poprzez aktywację układu współczulnego5152
  • Katastrofizacja bólu – negatywne myślenie o bólu może nasilać jego percepcję38
  • Lęk i depresja – często towarzyszą przewlekłemu bólowi i mogą wpływać na jego odczuwanie3742

Należy podkreślić, że obecne badania sugerują, iż czynniki psychologiczne raczej wpływają na sposób radzenia sobie z CRPS, niż stanowią pierwotną przyczynę schorzenia.4329

Rzadsze przyczyny zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

Oprócz typowych czynników wyzwalających, w literaturze opisano również rzadsze przyczyny rozwoju CRPS:5354

  • Choroby neurologiczne – takie jak udar mózgu czy dyskopatia międzykręgowa5355
  • Infekcje – zakażenia wirusem opryszczki, półpaśca czy cytomegalowirusem53
  • Nowotwory – jako zespół paraneoplastyczny5657
  • Schorzenia autoimmunologiczne – mogą predysponować do rozwoju CRPS12
  • Uraz jatrogeniczny – zabiegi takie jak uwolnienie zespołu kanału nadgarstka czy otwarta repozycja złamań dalszej części kości promieniowej5658
  • Ciąża – w rzadkich przypadkach CRPS opisywano w związku z ciążą59
  • Leki – związek z niektórymi lekami, takimi jak fenobarbital czy izoniazyd59

Teorie dotyczące przyczyn zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

W literaturze medycznej istnieje kilka teorii próbujących wyjaśnić patogenezę CRPS, odzwierciedlających złożoność tego schorzenia:5433

Teoria dysfunkcji autonomicznej

Teoria ta zakłada, że CRPS wynika z zaburzeń w funkcjonowaniu autonomicznego układu nerwowego, szczególnie układu współczulnego:5460

  • Uszkodzenie sympathetycznego nerwu powoduje, że pozostaje on stale aktywny, nie wyłącza się po ustąpieniu pierwotnego bodźca bólowego60
  • Prowadzi to do zaburzeń w regulacji przepływu krwi, potliwości i temperatury kończyny5461
  • Zmniejszony przepływ krwi wpływa na kości, mięśnie, ścięgna i więzadła w kończynie60

Teoria zaburzenia gojenia

Zgodnie z tą teorią, CRPS powstaje w wyniku zakłócenia normalnego procesu gojenia się tkanek po urazie:3062

  • Przewlekła, nadmierna reakcja zapalna zamiast normalnego procesu gojenia2961
  • Nadmierne uwalnianie neurotransmiterów i mediatorów zapalnych na początku procesu gojenia61
  • Zaburzenia w regulacji procesów zapalnych i przeciwzapalnych62

Teoria neuroplastyczności centralnej

Ta teoria koncentruje się na zmianach w ośrodkowym układzie nerwowym w odpowiedzi na przewlekły ból:5427

  • Przewlekły ból prowadzi do reorganizacji korowej i zmian w przetwarzaniu bodźców somatosensorycznych2728
  • Zmiany w aktywności receptorów NMDA (N-metylo-D-asparaginianowych) odgrywają rolę w centralnej sensytyzacji31
  • Neuroplastyczność indukowana bólem może powodować zarówno hiperalgezję, jak i hipoalgezję oraz hipestezję28

Teoria wieloczynnikowa

Obecnie większość badaczy uznaje, że CRPS jest wynikiem kombinacji wielu mechanizmów patofizjologicznych:5435

  • Współdziałanie zaburzeń układu nerwowego, immunologicznego i naczyniowego1825
  • Indywidualne predyspozycje genetyczne i immunologiczne328
  • Wpływ czynników środowiskowych i psychologicznych3843

Różnorodność teorii dotyczących patogenezy CRPS odzwierciedla złożoność tego schorzenia i wskazuje, że prawdopodobnie nie ma jednego, uniwersalnego mechanizmu odpowiedzialnego za jego rozwój. Jest to raczej wynik skomplikowanej interakcji pomiędzy wieloma czynnikami biologicznymi, które mogą się różnić między pacjentami.3563

Podsumowanie etiologii zespołu bólowego kompleksowego

Zespół bólowy kompleksowy (CRPS) stanowi złożony problem medyczny o niejednoznacznej etiologii. Mimo intensywnych badań, dokładna przyczyna tego schorzenia pozostaje niejasna, jednak obecny stan wiedzy wskazuje na wieloczynnikową patogenezę z udziałem licznych mechanizmów patofizjologicznych.6364

Najczęściej CRPS rozwija się po urazie lub innym zdarzeniu medycznym, takim jak złamanie, zabieg chirurgiczny, udar mózgu czy zawał serca. Szczególnie istotną rolę odgrywają urazy prowadzące do uszkodzenia najcieńszych włókien nerwowych czuciowych i autonomicznych. Niemniej jednak, jedynie u części osób po podobnych urazach rozwija się CRPS, co sugeruje udział dodatkowych czynników ryzyka i indywidualnych predyspozycji.124

W patogenezie CRPS istotną rolę odgrywają zaburzenia funkcjonowania układu nerwowego (zarówno obwodowego, jak i ośrodkowego), nieprawidłowe procesy zapalne i immunologiczne, dysfunkcja układu autonomicznego oraz zaburzenia naczyniowe. Te mechanizmy nie działają niezależnie, ale wchodzą ze sobą w skomplikowane interakcje, tworząc błędne koło patologicznych procesów podtrzymujących przewlekły ból i inne objawy kliniczne.171825

Badania nad czynnikami genetycznymi sugerują, że polimorfizmy w obrębie genów układu HLA i TNF-alfa mogą przyczyniać się do zwiększonej podatności na CRPS, a rodzinne występowanie tego schorzenia wskazuje na dziedziczną komponentę w niektórych przypadkach.33638

Czynniki demograficzne, takie jak płeć i wiek, również wpływają na ryzyko rozwoju CRPS. Schorzenie to częściej dotyka kobiety oraz osoby w średnim wieku, co może sugerować udział czynników hormonalnych w jego patogenezie.3940

Rola czynników psychologicznych w rozwoju CRPS pozostaje kontrowersyjna. Choć CRPS nie jest schorzeniem psychogennym, stres psychologiczny i zaburzenia emocjonalne mogą wpływać na percepcję bólu i zdolność radzenia sobie z chorobą, potencjalnie modyfikując jej przebieg kliniczny.4342

Zrozumienie złożonej etiologii CRPS ma kluczowe znaczenie dla optymalizacji strategii terapeutycznych. Wieloczynnikowa natura tego schorzenia wskazuje na potrzebę zindywidualizowanego, wielokierunkowego podejścia terapeutycznego, ukierunkowanego na różne mechanizmy patofizjologiczne leżące u podłoża objawów klinicznych.6365

Postępy w zrozumieniu mechanizmów patofizjologicznych CRPS pozwalają przewidywać rozwój nowych opcji terapeutycznych ukierunkowanych na etiologię schorzenia. Dalsze badania nad genetycznymi, immunologicznymi i neurologicznymi aspektami CRPS są niezbędne dla lepszego zrozumienia jego przyczyn i opracowania skuteczniejszych metod leczenia.2763

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  1. 09.04.2026
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Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Complex regional pain syndrome – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/crps-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20371151
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) typically develops after an injury, a surgery, a stroke or a heart attack. […] CRPS is uncommon, and its cause isn’t clearly understood. […] The cause of CRPS isn’t completely understood. It’s thought to be caused by an injury to or difference in the peripheral and central nervous systems. CRPS typically occurs as a result of a trauma or an injury. […] Many cases of CRPS occur after a forceful trauma to an arm or a leg. This can include a crushing injury or a fracture. […] Other major and minor traumas such as surgery, heart attacks, infections and even sprained ankles also can lead to CRPS. […] It’s not well understood why these injuries can trigger CRPS. Not everyone who has such an injury will go on to develop CRPS. It might be due to an interaction between your central and peripheral nervous systems that isn’t typical and different inflammatory responses.
  • #2 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Causes & Symptoms
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12085-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition that causes pain, changes in skin color and other symptoms in a certain part of your body usually in your extremities. […] Experts believe that CRPS occurs as a result of dysfunction in your central or peripheral nervous systems. […] Researchers aren’t sure why some people develop CRPS while others with similar injuries don’t. They think it’s due to an inflammatory or immune reaction in both your peripheral and central nervous systems. […] In more than 90% of cases, CRPS results from nerve trauma or injury to the affected limb that damages the thinnest sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. […] The most common injury associated with developing CRPS is a bone fracture, especially a wrist fracture. […] Other common injuries that can lead to CRPS include surgery, sprains or strains, and burns, bruises or cuts. […] CRPS can also develop without an obvious injury or due to periods of prolonged immobilization. […] Certain factors that may increase your risk of developing CRPS include poor nerve health, immune system issues, and genetics.
  • #3 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430719/
    Complex regional pain syndrome represents a neuropathic pain disorder defined by allodynia, hyperalgesia, vasomotor and sudomotor abnormalities, and trophic changes. […] The etiology remains unclear but likely involves genetic, inflammatory, and psychological factors. […] CRPS typically develops after tissue trauma of varying severity, but it has also been reported to occur without an identifiable injury or following prolonged immobilization. […] Fractures represent the most common inciting event, although surgery, sprains, contusions, and crush injuries are also frequent triggers. […] Heightened psychological distress at the time of injury may contribute to the severity of symptoms and influence overall prognosis. […] The role of genetic predisposition in CRPS remains under investigation. Specific polymorphisms, such as those involving human leukocyte antigen and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-), may contribute to earlier onset and greater severity.
  • #4 Complex regional pain syndrome | Handouts | MedLink Neurology
    https://www.medlink.com/handouts/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a broad term describing excess and prolonged pain and inflammation that follows an injury to an arm or leg. […] Most CRPS illnesses are caused by damage to or improper function of the small peripheral C-fiber nerve fibers that carry pain messages to the brain. […] In more than 90 percent of cases, CRPS is triggered by nerve trauma or injury to the affected limb that damages the thinnest sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. […] The most common actions or activities that lead to CRPS are: Fractures, Surgery, Sprains/strains, Lesser injuries such as burns or cuts, Limb immobilization, Very rare penetrations, such as from a cut or needle stick. […] Less than 10 percent of individuals with CRPS report no causal injury of trauma. The cause is often an undiagnosed internal nerve injury, such as nerve rubbing or tethering against hard internal structures or scars. […] Other influences include: Poor circulation, Poor nerve health, Immune system involvement, Genetics.
  • #5 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
    https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome is a broad term that covers long-lasting pain and inflammation that can happen after an injury or a medical event, such as surgery, trauma, stroke, or heart attack. […] CRPS is usually triggered by trauma or injury to the affected limb or other body part. […] The cause of CRPS may be obvious, such as a broken bone or injury but may not be so obvious in other cases. It is unclear why some people develop CRPS while others with similar trauma do not. There are several theories about how trauma or injury can lead to a chronic pain syndrome including inflammation, nerve damage, and problems with how the nerves send signals to the brain. […] The most common actions or activities that lead to CRPS are: Fractures: This is the most common cause, particularly wrist fractures.
  • #6 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
    https://www.healthday.com/a-to-z-health/pain-management/when-pain-is-persistent-mysterious-and-unbearable-646165.html
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) happens after things such as injuries, surgeries, strokes or heart attacks. […] The exact cause of CRPS remains unknown, but it typically follows trauma to the hand, foot or limb. Crush injuries, fractures, sprains, lacerations, a tight cast, nerve injury and even an infection or heart attack can lead to CRPS. […] The U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke says that in over 90% of cases, CRPS is started by nerve damage in the hurt limb. This damage usually affects the thinnest sensory and autonomic nerve fibers. […] Here are the most common things that can lead to CRPS: Fractures: This happens a lot, especially in the wrist. When bones break in a certain way, they can hurt nerves or press on them when put in a cast. […] Surgery: Sometimes, even when surgery goes well, things like incisions, stitches or how you’re positioned during surgery can hurt nerves.
  • #7 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
    https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Surgery: There are many elements of a surgery that can cause damage to nerves, including the incision (cut), the tools used to hold a wound or incision open during surgery, stitches, and scarring after surgery. […] Sprains/strains: Tears in connective tissues, such as an ankle sprain, can result in CRPS even if the injury does not appear to be severe. […] Burns or cuts: Burns and cuts may also damage underlying nerves. […] Nerve injury: For CRPS-2, a specific nerve trauma may lead to nerve-associated pain syndrome. Some, but not all, nerve injuries may require surgical repair.
  • #8 What Causes CRPS | RSD & CRPS Diagnosis – J.Flowers Health
    https://jflowershealth.com/what-causes-crps/
    There is also the possibility that RSD can occur from surgical procedures because of nerve damage from surgical incisions, retractors, placement, sutures, or postoperative scarring. […] Other possible causes/risk factors of RSD syndrome include: Amputation, Radiation, Nerve damage because of piercing injuries caused by thin items like needle sticks, Circulatory problems during wound healing, Diabetes, Genetics, Poor nerve health.
  • #9 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): Causes, Symptoms & Treatments
    https://www.healthday.com/a-to-z-health/pain-management/when-pain-is-persistent-mysterious-and-unbearable-646165.html
    Sprains/strains: When joints are stretched too much due to injuries like sprains, nearby nerves can get hurt. […] Minor injuries like burns or cuts: Even small injuries that you can see might hurt nerves underneath. […] Limb immobilization: Putting a cast on a limb can sometimes hurt nerves and reduce blood flow, causing CRPS. […] Rare penetrations: Sometimes cuts or needle pricks can accidentally hurt a nerve. Specialists can help find these hurt nerves and fix them with surgery.
  • #10 What Causes CRPS | Burning Nights
    https://www.burningnightscrps.org/crps/crps-information/what-causes-crps/
    According to specialists and doctors who deal with CRPS patients, the actual cause or how you can 'get’ Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is as of yet unknown. However, research does say that CRPS most likely does not have a single cause, but multiple causes. […] In a research study by Lee, W.H. (2015) it was concluded that there were a number of possible causes of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome including: „tissue damage, nerve damage, casting, traumas, fractures, burns, frostbites, strokes, and other non-identifiable causes.” […] It has been noted among health professionals that Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) may develop or be triggered after any of the following incidents: Minor injury, Soft tissue injury, Nerve damage, Laceration, Deep wound, Spinal-cord injury, Surgery, Fracture / broken bone, Castings, Strains, Sprains, Heart attack, Stroke, Neck problems, Infection, Cancer, Pressure on a nerve, Burns, Frostbite.
  • #11 Understanding Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)Visit our FacebookVisit our TwitterVisit our LinkedIncloseclock-omap-markerchevron-downphonebarsgooglecalendar-fullsmartphonechevron-downarrow-rightlinkedinfacebookpinterestyoutubersstwitterinstagramfaceb
    https://painconsults.com/understanding-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) or reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a disorder characterized by chronic persistent pain of the limbs. It can sometimes occur spontaneously, but more often than not, it happens after an injury or surgery. […] As of late, science has yet to find the exact cause of complex regional pain syndrome. However, in most cases, CRPS develops after a traumatic injury or surgical procedure involving the soft tissues. In fact, 41.3% of reported cases were due to fractures. Some other examples include sprains, strains, contusions, nerve lesions, and stroke. […] According to studies, tissue trauma due to injuries may stimulate the immune system to release inflammatory chemicals into the affected area. This will then cause you to feel stinging sensations, swelling, and temperature changes.
  • #12 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome)
    https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a term for ongoing, intense pain and inflammation after an injury or medical event, like surgery. […] Experts believe that CRPS usually happens because of damage to, or a glitch in, your nervous system. […] In most cases, CRPS happens after an injury or surgery. It’s believed to be triggered by tiny nerve cells that carry pain signals to your brain. If they get damaged and send too many signals, your immune system can overreact. That sets in motion CRPS symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, and redness in an area. […] CRPS could also be triggered by health issues such as an infection, cancer, heart attack, or stroke, although it’s not as common. […] Many other factors also play a part in CRPS. You may be more likely to get it if you have: Poor circulation, Diabetes, or other health conditions that impact your nerves, Autoimmune issues, Inflammatory disease, Family members with CRPS.
  • #13 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) – Neurologic Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/neurologic-disorders/pain/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps
    CRPS is divided into 2 types. CRPS type I accounts for a majority of cases and is defined as CRPS without known nerve injury. […] CRPS type II is similar to type I but involves overt damage to a peripheral nerve. […] The distinction between CRPS subtypes I and II is based on changes in skin temperature and is characterized as either warm or cold, respectively. However, the distinction of subtypes based on skin temperature and the concept that CRPS is „sympathetically maintained pain” remain unproven. […] Some experts describe central, peripheral, and mixed phenotypes based on symptom patterns, but the clinical relevance of these classifications remain unclear. […] Complex regional pain syndrome may follow injury (to soft tissue, bone, or nerve), amputation, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, or cancer or have no apparent precipitant.
  • #14 Causalgia (CRPS Type II): Definition, Symptoms, Treatment
    https://www.healthline.com/health/causalgia
    Causalgia (CRPS II) arises after an injury or trauma to a peripheral nerve. […] At the root of CRPS II is peripheral nerve injury. That injury can result from a fracture, sprain, or surgery. […] Other causes of CRPS II include: soft-tissue trauma, such as a burn; crushing injury, such as slamming your finger into a car door; amputation. […] Its still unknown why some people respond so dramatically to these events and others dont. […] Its possible that people with CRPS (either I or II) have irregularities in the linings of their nerve fibers, making them hypersensitive to pain signals. […] These irregularities can also create an inflammatory response and trigger changes to blood vessels.
  • #15 What Causes CRPS | Burning Nights
    https://www.burningnightscrps.org/crps/crps-information/what-causes-crps/
    Although CRPS is caused by trauma in most cases, there are 10% or below of spontaneous cases of CRPS, where there has been no known reason or cause for the start of the condition. […] In the 2011 research by Goebel, A. it is stated that significant scientific and clinical advances over the preceding 10 years hold promise for an improved understanding of the causes of CRPS. […] Janig Baron (2003) stated that: „On the basis of clinical observation and research in human beings and animals, we hypothesise that CRPS is a systemic disease involving the CNS and peripheral nervous system.” […] The NINDS website on CRPS (2018) gives a description of how a person can get CRPS or what triggers the condition as „CRPS represents an abnormal response that magnifies the effects of the injury. In this respect it is like an allergy. Some people respond excessively to a trigger that causes no problem for other people.”
  • #16 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) | Symptoms, treatments
    https://versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition that causes severe pain which won’t go away. It usually affects just one arm or leg and often follows an earlier injury to the limb. However, the body’s reaction to the injury is much stronger than usual and may affect more of the limb than the original injury did. […] We dont yet know exactly what causes complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) but a fracture or other injury sometimes seems to act as a trigger. Symptoms of CRPS start within a month of the injury. […] It’s thought that the nerves of the affected limb are much more sensitive than normal and that pain pathways between the affected limb and the brain may change so that pain continues long after the original injury has healed. The pain and other symptoms also affect a wider area than the original injury. […] More rarely, CRPS can occur after other problems such as a stroke or multiple operations to a limb. In other cases (about 1 in 10) it develops without any obvious trigger factor.
  • #17 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430719/
    Studies on distal radius fractures have linked older age, psychosocial stressors, and psychiatric comorbidities to an increased risk of developing CRPS. […] Autoimmune factors appear to play a role in the pathogenesis of CRPS. […] Sensitization of the peripheral nervous system is triggered by the release of pro-inflammatory markers after the initial injury. […] Multiple pathophysiologic mechanisms have been described in the literature to explain CRPS. Scientific evidence does not point to a single principal mechanism. The condition is therefore considered multifactorial, involving inflammatory, immunologic, central, and peripheral sensitization, and autonomic dysregulation.
  • #18 Diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome
    https://www.e-acn.org/journal/view.php?number=618
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic regional pain disorder that most frequently affects the limbs. It is characterized by hyperalgesia, allodynia, edema, motor disturbance, and vasomotor instability, and typically occurs following surgery or trauma. […] The multifactorial pathophysiological etiology of CRPS includes inflammation, autoimmune responses, abnormal cytokine production, autonomic dysfunction, altered blood flow, psychological factors, and central cortical reorganization. […] While the pathophysiology of CRPS is still unknown, it is considered to involve dysfunction of both the central and peripheral nerve systems. […] Despite scientific progress, the pathophysiological etiology of CRPS has still not been established. […] It is also thought that genetic and psychological factors contribute to CRPS.
  • #19 Complex regional pain syndrome: Types, symptoms, stages, and causes
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/184338
    Complex regional pain syndrome may develop following an injury or surgery. The exact cause is not clear, but multiple mechanisms may be involved. […] Research published in 2005 lists the likely mechanisms as: trauma-related release of cytokines, substances produced by the immune system; exaggerated inflammation in the nervous system; changes to the nervous system that cause the pain to continue. […] Some theories propose that inflammation and changes in the brain and sympathetic, peripheral, and spinal nervous systems, aggravated by immobility, may contribute. […] CPRS does not always result from an obvious injury. It may happen because of damage that has occurred internally, such as a blood vessel problem. […] If CPRS occurs in members of the same family, it may be more severe, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role or make some people more susceptible.
  • #20 What Causes CRPS? – Alchemy Wellness in Richmond, VA
    https://wellwithalchemy.com/what-causes-crps/
    What Causes CRPS? […] Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain disorder that typically affects one of the extremities (an arm or leg) – although it can occur in other parts of the body as well. […] Understanding the underlying causes of CRPS is crucial for effective symptom management. […] CRPS often develops due to nerve damage following an injury or trauma to a limb. […] The exact mechanism of how nerve injury leads to CRPS is not yet fully understood. […] However, it is believed that the initial trauma triggers an abnormal response in the peripheral and central nervous systems, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of CRPS. […] Inflammation plays a significant role in CRPS. […] This abnormal immune response and the resulting inflammatory effects are thought to contribute to the development and maintenance of CRPS symptoms.
  • #21 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Risks
    https://www.healthline.com/health/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) happens when you experience intense, prolonged pain after an injury to an arm or a leg. […] Whether the exact nerve injury is found or not, more than 90% of cases of CRPS are brought on by an injury that damages tiny nerve fibers in the affected limb. In rare cases, you can develop CRPS with no known triggering injury. […] Unlike other nerves in your body, the type of nerve fibers damaged in CRPS dont have a protective myelin sheath. This makes them more prone to harm. […] Experts still are not sure why some people develop CRPS and others do not. Several factors, including various neurological, immune, and genetic causes, are likely involved.
  • #22 Complex Regional Pain Syndromes: Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1145318-overview
    In most cases, experts believe that CRPS develops when persistent noxious stimuli from an injured body region leads to peripheral and central sensitization, whereby primary afferent nociceptive mechanisms demonstrate abnormally heightened sensation, including spontaneous pain and hyperalgesia. […] The peripheral and central sensitization associated with impaired CNS processing is linked to proposed disturbances within the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) that lead to sympathetic hyperactivity adversely affecting the injured area. […] Studies suggest that an augmented inflammatory response coupled with impaired healing further contribute to the refractory nature of malevolent CRPS. […] Hyperalgesia and allodynia initially develop at the injury site. However, after CNS sensitization occurs through WDR neural activity, the area of pain expands beyond the initial region of tissue pathology.
  • #23 What Causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? – KetWell NC
    https://ketwell.com/what-causes-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/
    What Causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? […] Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a condition characterized by chronic pain that typically affects one limb, usually after an injury or trauma. […] However, research has revealed several potential causes and factors that may contribute to its onset. […] The exact cause of CRPS is still not fully understood, but it is believed to involve both the peripheral and central nervous systems. […] CRPS can be triggered by various factors, including trauma, surgery, or even a seemingly minor injury. […] Following an initial injury, the body’s peripheral nerves may become sensitized, leading to abnormal pain signaling. […] Furthermore, the injured area releases inflammatory molecules, such as cytokines, which play a significant role in the development and maintenance of CRPS.
  • #24 What Causes CRPS? – Alchemy Wellness in Richmond, VA
    https://wellwithalchemy.com/what-causes-crps/
    CRPS is associated with dysfunction in the peripheral and central nervous systems. […] Changes in the way the brain perceives and processes pain signals can result in heightened sensitivity to pain and the development of chronic pain patterns. […] Vascular abnormalities, such as arterial vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and impaired blood flow, have been observed in individuals with CRPS. […] There is evidence to suggest that certain individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing CRPS. […] Psychological factors, such as extreme stress, anxiety, and depression, can influence the development and progression of CRPS. […] While the exact cause of CRPS remains unclear, it is believed to involve a combination of triggers and factors, including nerve injury, abnormal immune responses, inflammation, nerve dysfunction, vascular abnormalities, psychological factors, and potentially genetic predisposition.
  • #25 What Causes CRPS | Burning Nights
    https://www.burningnightscrps.org/crps/crps-information/what-causes-crps/
    According to the Mayo Clinic website (2014), a possible cause for CRPS: „…may be due to a dysfunctional interaction between your central and peripheral nervous systems and inappropriate inflammatory responses.” […] Researchers have found in their studies into the causes of CRPS that they believe it begins because of an abnormal response to an injury that has resulted in four main systems in the body to malfunction. […] Goebel, A. (2011) explains that: „The condition’s distinct combination of abnormalities includes limb-confined inflammation and tissue hypoxia, sympathetic dysregulation, small fibre damage, serum autoantibodies, central sensitization and cortical reorganization.” […] Another theory posited in a Web MD article (2015) suggests that: „pain receptors in the affected part of the body become responsive to catecholamines, a group of nervous system messengers.”
  • #26 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – Brain, Spinal Cord, and Nerve Disorders – Merck Manual Consumer Version
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/brain-spinal-cord-and-nerve-disorders/pain/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome causes neuropathic pain. In this disorder, pain signals are processed abnormally by the brain and spinal cord. It typically occurs after an injury. […] Sometimes there is no obvious cause of either type of CRPS. Both types occur most often in young adults and are 2 or 3 times more common among women. […] Sometimes CRPS occurs when the sympathetic nervous system becomes overactive. The sympathetic nervous system normally prepares the body for stressful or emergency situations for fight or flight.
  • #27 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    It is currently known that chronic pain can create a change in the cortical representation of the affected area, in particular, the representation of the affected area or limb in the somatosensory cortex (S1) which is relatively small compared to the healthy limb. […] Although the exact causes of CRPS have not yet been discovered, the progress made in recent years in the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the disease allow us to foresee new treatment options targeting the etiology. Understanding the etiological factors will lead to an early diagnosis and a better implementation of treatment.
  • #28 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/en-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Studies have shown that the use of ACE inhibitors at the time when the causal trauma is suffered, as well as a medical history of asthma or migraines, is associated with an increased risk of developing CRPS. […] CRPS often occurs in several family members and at younger ages, which may indicate a genetic predisposition. […] The nociceptive stimulus not only causes an inflammatory response, but also a low pain threshold. Recent research has shown that some patients respond to treatment with immunoglobulins, and of those, most carry serum IgG autoantibodies directed against autonomic receptors. […] It is recognized that this neuronal plasticity, induced by pain, causes hyperalgesia but it can also cause hypoalgesia and hypoesthesia. Several studies show that neuronal plasticity may be a decline effect in response to pain.
  • #29 What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – in plain English – International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP)
    https://www.iasp-pain.org/publications/relief-news/article/what-is-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-in-plain-english/
    What causes CRPS? […] We dont know this either. One theory suggests that something goes wrong with the inflammatory response after a minor injury so that it just winds up and up until the whole protective system is very very sensitive. Another theory is that CRPS results from psychological weakness and another that it relates to certain personality types. The last two theories have been proven wrong in the largest study, these things were not related to having CRPS: pre-injury psychological profile (including personality), biomechanical factors (the specific size, shape, configuration and movement of your body parts), injury characteristics (how and what you injured), surgical approaches (what operation, if any, they did), compensation and previous illness history. The first theory has neither been proven wrong, nor proven right. Both seem possible. It is also possible that there are several potential causes of CRPS. We really dont know.
  • #30 Complex Regional Pain Syndromes: Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1145318-overview
    After tissue injury, the body’s response is programmed to promote healing, with the goal of regaining full use of the injured body part. Some experts have hypothesized that CRPS is caused by an aberrant healing response that includes exaggerated and persistent inflammation and guarding. […] This phenomenon has been postulated as a cause in some patients with CRPS.
  • #31 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Recent studies suggest the existence of two different sources of inflammation: Acute, tissue damage mediated by classical inflammation mechanisms (IL-1, IL-6, TNF-alpha, CD4, macrophages, neutrophils) and neurogenic, mediated by proinflammatory cytokines and neuropeptides released directly by nociceptors in response to various causal factors. […] The nociceptive stimulus not only causes an inflammatory response, but also a low pain threshold. […] It has been found that N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play an important role in central sensitization; two controlled clinical trials showed that low doses of ketamine (an NMDA antagonist) dramatically reduce pain in patients with CRPS. […] This hypothesis suggests an underlying cause in muscle, bone and perineural microvasculature that causes ischemia and subsequent inflammation originating persistent abnormal pain, creating central sensitization.
  • #32 Causes & Symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
    https://emedmultispecialtygroup.com/conditions/causes-symptoms-of-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic (lasting greater than six months) pain condition that most often affects one limb (arm, leg, hand, or foot) usually after an injury. […] It is unclear why some individuals develop CRPS while others with similar trauma do not. CRPS represents an abnormal response that magnifies the effects of the injury. […] Peripheral nerve abnormalities found in individuals with CRPS usually involve the small unmyelinated and thinly myelinated sensory nerve fibers (axons) that carry pain messages and signals to blood vessels. […] Molecules secreted from the ends of hyperactive small nerve fibers are thought to contribute to inflammation and blood vessel abnormalities. […] High levels of inflammatory chemicals (cytokines) have been found in the tissues of people with CRPS.
  • #33 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | AAFP
    https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2021/0700/p49.html
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a rare, chronic pain disorder. CRPS typically develops four to six weeks after direct trauma, such as an injury or surgery, and causes pain that is out of proportion to the inciting injury. […] The pathogenesis of CRPS is poorly understood, and although many causal mechanisms have been postulated, it is likely multifactorial. It is unclear why most cases of CRPS develop after an injury, but some do not. Possible causal mechanisms include combinations of local inflammatory cascades, direct small fiber nerve injury, dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system, central pain processing, and emotional responses to painful stimuli. […] Some studies also suggest that an autoimmune process plays a role in CRPS. […] Genetic factors may be involved, but strong associations have not been identified.
  • #34 Complex regional pain syndrome: an expert explains the condition
    https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-an-expert-explains-the-condition
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition that can cause severe pain in the limbs, among many other symptoms. […] Although the exact cause of CRPS is unknown, it is thought that a disruption in the central and peripheral nerve systems may result from a variety of factors. Trauma or surgery, as well as the potential limb immobilisation that may accompany these occurrences, frequently trigger CRPS. […] Inflammatory chemicals and neuropeptides are considered to be secreted from peripheral nerves in CRPS. During a process called central sensitisation, pain-sensing nerve fibres in the spinal cord are overstimulated, causing them to respond painfully to stimuli that would ordinarily be non-painful (such as light touch). […] Neuropeptide release makes the blood in the tissues leaky, which results in tissue swelling, and vasodilation (the engorgement of blood vessels) results in changes in skin colour.
  • #35 Complex regional pain syndrome – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complex_regional_pain_syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome is uncommon, and its cause is unclear. CRPS typically develops after an injury, surgery, heart attack, or stroke. Investigators estimate that 25% of those with peripheral nerve injury, and 1370% of those with hemiplegia (paralysis of one side of the body) will develop CRPS. In addition, some studies have indicated that tobacco smoking is more often present in CRPS patients. Smoking may be involved in its pathophysiology among tobacco users by enhancing sympathetic activity, vasoconstriction, or other unknown neurotransmitter-related mechanism. This hypothesis was based on a small 1993 retrospective analysis of 53 patients with RSD, which showed that 68% of patients were smokers, compared to only 37% of the control population. The results are preliminary and are limited by their retrospective nature. A minority (7%) of individuals with CRPS in a single limb go on to develop it in another. […] In summary, the pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome has not yet been defined; CRPS, with its variable manifestations, could be the result of multiple pathophysiological processes.
  • #36 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Part 1: Essentials of Assessment and Diagnosis | PM&R KnowledgeNow
    https://now.aapmr.org/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-part-1-essentials-of-assessment-and-diagnosis/
    Earlier age at CRPS onset and more severe symptoms have been found in patients with some human leukocyte antigen and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-) polymorphisms.6 A recent study identified four single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes expressed in peripheral nervous system neurons and immune cells that were associated with CRPS type 1 development, and more common in men.7 Several case reports and retrospective studies suggest a familial inheritance; however, no clear inheritance pattern has been established.8
  • #37 What Causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? – KetWell NC
    https://ketwell.com/what-causes-complex-regional-pain-syndrome/
    Physical injuries such as fractures, sprains, burns, or even surgical procedures can act as triggers for the development of CRPS. […] In some cases, CRPS may be triggered by non-traumatic events such as heart attacks or strokes. […] CRPS can also occur without any apparent injury or trauma. […] Genetics may also play a role in the development of CRPS, although the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood. […] Studies have shown that individuals with a family history of CRPS are more likely to develop the condition themselves. […] Recent studies have also identified specific genetic mutations that may be associated with an increased risk of developing CRPS. […] It is becoming increasingly clear that psychological factors can influence the experience of pain, including the development and progression of CRPS.
  • #38 Diagnosis of complex regional pain syndrome
    https://www.e-acn.org/journal/view.php?number=618
    There have been reports of familial cases of CRPS, and these patients frequently have severe disease with early onset, recurrences, spreading to many sites, and/or dystonia. […] Psychosocial factors and pain outcomes are correlated in CRPS patients. […] It has been proposed that psychological conditions including depression play a role in the emergence of CRPS.
  • #39 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome)
    https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    More research needs to be done on CRPS. So far, existing data shows that it’s three to four times more likely to affect people who are assigned female at birth (AFAB.) CRPS also appears to be most common in people aged 50-74. […] Doctors are trying to understand more about what causes CRPS. That can help them find ways to prevent it as well as better treatments. Studies are currently taking a closer look into the roles your immune system and genes play.
  • #40 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – familydoctor.org
    https://familydoctor.org/condition/complex-regional-pain-syndrome/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition. It can occur after an injury. It usually affects an arm or a leg. It can also occur in other areas of the body. In rare cases, it develops after surgery, heart attack, or other medical problem. The pain is often described as a burning feeling. It is usually much worse than what’s considered normal for the injury. Your doctor may also call this condition reflex sympathetic dystrophy or causalgia. […] It is believed that CRPS happens because of damage to the nervous system. It may happen if the nervous system malfunctions. In most cases, it is triggered by an injury or trauma. These could include: Fractures, Sprains/strains, Burns, cuts, or bruises, Surgery, Minor procedures, such as a needle stick. […] Anyone at any age can get CPRS. It is more common in women. It seems to peak around age 40. It is uncommon in children and rare in the elderly.
  • #41 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Studies have shown that the use of ACE inhibitors at the time when the causal trauma is suffered, as well as a medical history of asthma or migraines, is associated with an increased risk of developing CRPS. […] CRPS is a chronic pain condition that usually arises after a traumatic event of the soft tissues. The definitive cause still remains unknown, although different pathogenetic concepts have been proposed; three of the most studied are: autonomic dysfunction, neurogenic inflammation, and changes in CNS neuroplasticity, all of which are still in dispute. However, current evidence shows that this problem could have a multifactorial origin. […] It has been suggested that its degree depends on the stage in which the syndrome is found. […] There is evidence of an increase in the number of -adrenergic receptors in the skin of patients with CRPS.
  • #42 Understanding and Treating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
    https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/understanding-and-treating-complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    One hypothesis is that the pain of CRPS I is caused by undetected nerve injuries. […] It is not clear, however, whether these nerve changes are the cause of CRPS I or a consequence. […] Some experts maintain that CRPS often has a psychogenic cause, such as depression. […] „I would say that it is a biomedical disease, a psychological disease, and a sociologic disease,” said Harden. […] „It’s never, ever psychiatric. When you have severe pain that totally wrecks your life, you’re depressed.” […] Oaklander took a slightly different approach, pointing out that if the patient’s chronic pain can be attributed to a psychogenic cause, the condition is not CRPS. […] However, she said that she did not encounter malingering any more frequently among patients with CRPS than among patients with any other medical condition.
  • #43 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful condition of a persons arm, hand, leg or foot, which occurs after an injury, such as a fracture. […] We do not know the cause of CRPS, but treatment aims to relieve symptoms and restore limb function (movement and activity). […] CRPS is a pain disorder that can affect different body systems. We do not understand the cause well. Most health professionals believe that a few different factors working together may trigger the symptoms. The way each of these factors contributes to the onset of CRPS may be different for each person. Triggering factors, called disease mechanisms, are thought to include: […] Psychological factors some doctors think that a persons reaction to a stressful life event can trigger CRPS, while other doctors strongly disagree. Current research suggests that psychological factors do not play a major role in the onset of CRPS, except in cases of extreme stress. Psychological factors can, however, play an important role in how well a person copes with CRPS.
  • #44 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – Wisconsin Spine and Pain
    https://www.wispineandpain.com/complex-regional-pain
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of, the peripheral and central nervous systems. […] The cause of complex regional pain syndrome isn’t completely understood. It’s thought to be caused by an injury to or an abnormality of the peripheral and central nervous systems. CRPS typically occurs as a result of a trauma or an injury. Complex regional pain syndrome occurs in two types, with similar signs and symptoms, but different causes: Type 1. Also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD), this type occurs after an illness or injury that didn’t directly damage the nerves in your affected limb. About 90 percent of people with complex regional pain syndrome have type 1. Type 2. Once referred to as causalgia, this type has similar symptoms to type 1. But type 2 complex regional pain syndrome follows a distinct nerve injury.
  • #45 Complex regional pain syndrome (formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy) – Autoimmune Association
    https://autoimmune.org/disease-information/reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy/
    Reflex sympathetic dystrophy also called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition. […] Doctors aren’t sure what causes CRPS. In some cases the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in sustaining the pain. Another theory is that CRPS is caused by a triggering of the immune response, which leads to the characteristic inflammatory symptoms of redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected area. […] The underlying cause of CRPS is often not known. Two classifications of CRPS have been recognized based on causalgia. Type I (also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy), in which there is no evidence of peripheral nerve injury and Type II, in which peripheral nerve injury is present.
  • #46 What are the Causes of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?
    https://www.davidkates.com/blog/2020/september/what-are-the-causes-of-complex-regional-pain-syn/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition which causes extensive struggles for patients. Not only is this condition very painful, it can also impact a persons mobility and cause other symptoms. […] There is no single root cause of complex regional pain syndrome. It is a misunderstood condition that can result from many different types of injuries and illness. […] There are two types of complex regional pain syndrome. CRPS type 1 is caused by injuries or illnesses that do not directly impact the nerves. CRPS type 2 occurs when an injury or illness damages the nerves. […] Both types of CRPS can be caused by a variety of different incidents. Car accidents and work injuries are only a few examples of issues that can lead to both types of CRPS. Complex regional pain syndrome can result from any accident or condition that causes physical trauma or nerve damage.
  • #47 Complex Regional Pain Syndrom (CRPS) | Pain Relief Centers
    https://floridapaininstitute.net/conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrom-crps
    The condition known as complex regional pain syndrome is one of the less common causes of pain, but when it does occur, it is chronic and affects the legs and arms. […] While this condition is still not fully understood, there are certain medical conditions and injuries that are linked to the syndrome, and treatment is often effective when provided during the first stages of the condition. […] There are two different categories of complex regional pain syndrome, and the causes of the condition will fall within one of the two types. […] Type 1: When an injury or illness occurs that did not cause direct injury to the nerves, but resulted in the syndrome, the type falls under category one. This is the most common cause, and about 90 percent of patients seen with this condition will fall into this category. […] Type 2: This occurs due to direct damage to the nerves. This is often present after a high-impact trauma to the nerves, or when surgery, stroke, or a heart attack causes damaged to the nerves.
  • #48 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Definition
    https://www.neuromodulation.com/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-definition
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition that may result in extreme sensitivity and pain to the hands and elbows or knees and legs, in particular, without an obvious cause that would explain the degree of pain. […] CRPS appears to arise after an initial injury (although its pain level bears no relationship to the original injury or surgical operation). Perhaps 1% of injuries or surgeries lead to CRPS. One theory is that the original injury creates an inflammation that spreads from tissues and inflames peripheral nerves (nerves beyond the spinal cord). In turn, that process may trigger the spinal column to amplify pain signals sent to the brain, in a fashion that is not well understood. […] CRPS has been classified as Type I (formerly known as RSD), or Type II, which is characterized by the presence of nerve injury as a contributing cause and was formerly known as causalgia.
  • #49 Complex Regional Pain Syndromes: Background, Pathophysiology, Epidemiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1145318-overview
    The 1994 IASP criteria have proven to be extremely sensitive (ie, they rarely miss a true case of CRPS). However, since their inception, the 1994 taxonomy has been criticized by experts on clinical criteria validation and specialists in pain medicine on the grounds that the criteria are insufficiently specific (ie, use of the criteria results in overdiagnosis of CRPS). […] A small single-center validation study demonstrated empirically that the 1994 CRPS criteria did indeed cause overdiagnosis of the syndrome. […] Later modifications to the diagnostic criteria increased specificity and reduced sensitivity, so that about 15% of patients previously diagnosed with CRPS were considered „without a diagnosis.” Therefore, a third diagnostic subtype, complex regional pain syndrome not otherwise specified (CRPS-NOS), was recommended to categorize those patients.
  • #50 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | University Hospitals
    https://www.uhhospitals.org/health-information/health-and-wellness-library/article/diseases-and-conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic health problem that causes long-lasting pain. […] Experts aren’t sure what causes this syndrome. But they believe that nerve damage is involved. In most cases, the condition occurs after some type of injury to the affected area. But this is not always the case. […] Healthcare providers view this disease as an abnormal response by the body. The nerve endings that control pain in an injured part of the body may become too sensitive to the chemical messengers carried by the sympathetic nervous system. These chemical messengers are called catecholamines. They may stimulate the pain and other symptoms. The roles of inflammation and the immune system are also being studied. […] CRPS is a chronic health problem that causes long-lasting pain. It is often caused by an overreaction in the body to a physical injury.
  • #51 What Causes CRPS To Get Worse? – Boise Ketamine Clinic in ID
    https://boiseketamineclinic.com/what-causes-crps-to-get-worse/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a general term that describes excessive and long-term inflammation and pain you may have after injuring an arm or leg. […] No one knows the exact cause. But leading candidates include general inflammation, inflamed nerves, and even variations in pain perception in the brain and spinal cord. Certain substances and chemicals found in the affected limbs are another possibility, along with problems with neurotransmitters and how pain signals are sent through the body. […] Emotional or physical trauma can worsen the symptoms linked to complex regional pain syndrome.
  • #52 Reddit – The heart of the internet
    https://www.reddit.com/r/CRPS/comments/15yee4b/a_perfect_explanation_of_crps/
    This condition is the most painful condition known to medicine. Yes, most painful. It is considered by medicine to be more painful than natural child birth or even having a digit amputated without anaesthesia. The pain makes no sense to the body or me. It causes pain to be greater than anyone would expect for my injury. The pain should have stopped but the damaged nerve tells the body it is in pain. […] When the damaged Sympathetic nerve stays on it can excite the nerve next to it opening the gate and turning on the next nerve. This happens to many with this disorder, it is called spreading. […] There is no cure for what I have, none. Doctors hope I can get in remission and shut the nerve off. So how do I get into remission? That is a good question!! No one has an answer for that yet. Most with this disorder never get in remission. […] Stress and negative emotions only turn on the Sympathetic nervous system more.
  • #53 Traumatic and Non-traumatic Etiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | Journal of Pioneering Medical Sciences
    https://jpmsonline.com/article/traumatic-and-non-traumatic-etiology-of-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-533/
    Trauma is considered the most common cause of CRPS. […] Iatrogenic causes are considered the second-most common cause of CRPS. […] Many studies have concluded that CRPS can result from infection by the herpes simplex virus, the varicella-zoster virus, or the cytomegalovirus. […] Possible neurological causes include stroke and a herniated intervertebral disc. […] Many other rare causes of CRPS were documented in a few studies, which include the centipede bite, venous thrombosis in the arm, Raynaud’s disease, and shoulder-hand syndrome. […] This systematic review concluded that multiple and different types of causes can lead to CRPS. The most prevalent etiology includes fractures, blunt trauma, and iatrogenic causes.
  • #54 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/en-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic and painful condition that affects the quality of life of patients. It is usually triggered by a traumatic event of the soft tissues involving the nervous tissue. Although the factors that cause the syndrome are varied and not well known, different etiopathologic concepts have been proposed to explain the presence of this syndrome, such as autonomic dysfunction and changes in CNS plasticity, among others. […] The main feature of the history is a fracture, and immobilization has been proposed as a possible predisposing factor for CRPS. […] It is believed that psychogenic or hysterical factors, mainly associated with depressive symptoms, may contribute to CRPS. […] CRPS is a chronic pain condition that usually arises after a traumatic event of the soft tissues. The definitive cause still remains unknown, although different pathogenetic concepts have been proposed; three of the most studied are: autonomic dysfunction, neurogenic inflammation, and changes in CNS neuroplasticity, all of which are still in dispute. However, current evidence shows that this problem could have a multifactorial origin.
  • #55 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-reflex-sympathetic-dystrophy/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition resulting in intense burning pain, stiffness, swelling, and discoloration that most often affects the hand. Arms, legs, and feet can also be affected by CRPS. […] Although the two types of CRPS can be tied to injury or illness, the exact cause of CRPS is unknown. One theory is that a short circuit in the nervous system is responsible. This short circuit causes overactivity of the sympathetic (unconscious) nervous system which affects blood flow and sweat glands in the affected area. Symptoms most commonly occur after injury or surgery. Other causes include: Pressure on a nerve, Infection, Cancer, Neck problems, Stroke, Heart attack.
  • #56 Traumatic and Non-traumatic Etiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome | Journal of Pioneering Medical Sciences
    https://jpmsonline.com/article/traumatic-and-non-traumatic-etiology-of-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-533/
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is characterized by prolonged pain after an injury that persists longer than expected. Different symptoms may present, and traumatic, non-traumatic, or iatrogenic events can cause them. This systematic review aims to provide an overview of CRPS and its causes. […] There was a significant correlation between trauma and CRPS, specifically fractures and blunt injuries without fractures. The second most common cause was iatrogenic, including carpal tunnel syndrome release and open reduction of distal radius fractures. Additionally, reports included cases related to tumors, inflammatory disorders, infections, neurological diseases, and miscellaneous or idiopathic causes. […] The incidence of CRPS is 13.6 per 100,000 per year, according to a 2018 case-control study. The retrospective epidemiological analysis of 1043 patients with CRPS revealed that the most common cause of CRPS is trauma.
  • #57 Complex regional pain syndrome Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/complex-regional-pain-syndrome
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a long-term (chronic) pain condition that can affect any area of the body, but often affects an arm or a leg. […] Health care providers are not sure what causes CRPS. In some cases, the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in the pain. Another theory is that CRPS is caused by a triggering of the immune response, which leads to the inflammatory symptoms of redness, warmth, and swelling in the affected area. […] CRPS is thought to result from damage to the nervous system. This includes the nerves that control the blood vessels and sweat glands. […] Possible causes of CRPS: Injury directly to a nerve, Injury or infection in an arm or leg. […] In rare cases, sudden illnesses such as a heart attack or stroke can cause CRPS. The condition can sometimes appear without obvious injury to the affected limb.
  • #58 What are the Causes of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?
    https://www.davidkates.com/blog/2020/september/what-are-the-causes-of-complex-regional-pain-syn/
    In some cases, the cause of a persons CRPS can be traced to medical negligence. Malpractice, particularly during surgery, is a common cause of complex regional pain syndrome. A doctor who fails to take the proper precautions or is negligent while operating on a person can make a mistake and cause an injury that leads to CRPS, or can damage the nerves and directly cause the condition to develop. […] A persons condition can also be worsened if they do not receive the medical care they need. A person who has complex regional pain syndrome may not be properly diagnosed due to the negligence of a doctor, and therefore would not be treated correctly. This type of negligence can cause a patients pain and damages to increase.
  • #59 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic and painful condition that affects the quality of life of patients. It is usually triggered by a traumatic event of the soft tissues involving the nervous tissue. Although the factors that cause the syndrome are varied and not well known, different etiopathologic concepts have been proposed to explain the presence of this syndrome, such as autonomic dysfunction and changes in CNS plasticity, among others. […] The main feature of the history is a fracture, and immobilization has been proposed as a possible predisposing factor for CRPS. […] It is believed that psychogenic or hysterical factors, mainly associated with depressive symptoms, may contribute to CRPS. […] CRPS is also associated with other diseases and conditions such as stroke, mastectomy, pregnancy, and the use of drugs such as phenobarbital and isoniazid.
  • #60 Reddit – The heart of the internet
    https://www.reddit.com/r/CRPS/comments/15yee4b/a_perfect_explanation_of_crps/
    EXPLAINING RSD/CRPS I have a rare neurological disorder. Only some 2,000,000 people around the world have it. (Although who knows how many more are left undiagnosed too?) So what is it? RSD, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, was the name used for years. The current name is CRPS, complex regional pain syndrome. So what does that mean?? It means that usually from an injury, trauma, or surgery a sympathetic nerve in my body was damaged. […] With RSD/CRPS the damaged Sympathetic nerve remains on. It does NOT shut off. […] This decreased circulation affects the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the limb or affected area. This decreased blood flow makes the affected limb or area cold, gives it a red or blue or purple coloring, it can change the skin/nails/hair, it causes inflammation in the area that the body no longer knows how to respond to, it affects proper movement, and most importantly it causes pain.
  • #61 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
    https://stiwell.medel.com/orthopaedics/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-(crps)
    Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is an excessive, disproportionate inflammatory response (swelling, pain, etc.) that occurs after an injury to the limbs. The cause of CRPS has not yet been fully clarified. Since the CRPS usually develops after tissue injuries, it is assumed that an impaired wound healing process plays a role. An excess of neurotransmitters that are released at the beginning of the wound healing process (inflammatory mediators) is suspected to be the trigger. This causes a disruption of the autonomous (unconscious) and central nervous system (brain). […] Tissue inflammation causes overstimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, which leads to impaired regulation of vessels and glands, and impaired pain perception. This incorrect control causes the characteristic symptoms of the disease. Swelling, pain, and fibrosis in turn impair wound healing and further irritate the sympathetic nervous system. This adverse cycle is probably the reason why the disease persists for a long time before it can be healed. […] It has been established that the disease affects the processing of somatosensitive stimuli (sensory information) in the brain, which could be the reason for the severe pain.
  • #62 The Cause of CRPS | Hypothesis Regarding the Cause of RSD
    https://www.crpslawsuit.com/causes/
    The cause, if indeed there is only one, for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is unknown. Most physicians, researchers, and CRPS attorneys expect that there are a variety of causes which result in the same battery of symptoms. […] The precise mechanisms by which CRPS develops are still unknown. The disorder most typically develops after a person has suffered an injury, usually to the hand, foot, arm, or leg. […] Whether the injury itself is relatively minor or rather serious does not appear to have any real bearing on whether CRPS will develop. […] If the pain receptors in the injured area become responsive to these neurotransmitters, a vicious cycle might be started. […] Another hypothesis regarding the cause of CRPS is that it is a result of a disruption in the healing process. […] The redness, soreness, and swelling could be caused by an overactive immune response. […] This is more likely in cases of RSD or causalgia brought on by serious injury.
  • #63 Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a review | Medicina Universitaria
    https://www.elsevier.es/en-revista-medicina-universitaria-304-articulo-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-crps–S1665579615000320
    Although the exact causes of CRPS have not yet been discovered, the progress made in recent years in the understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the disease allow us to foresee new treatment options targeting the etiology. Understanding the etiological factors will lead to an early diagnosis and a better implementation of treatment.
  • #64 What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome – in plain English – International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP)
    https://www.iasp-pain.org/publications/relief-news/article/what-is-complex-regional-pain-syndrome-in-plain-english/
    What we do know is that the response to tissue trauma (injury) is excessive. We know that the autonomic nervous system (the system that controls blood flow to your body) is involved, most probably by altered sensitivity to adrenaline. We know that the immune system is involved. We know that the system that controls movement is involved. Last, but not least, we know that the pain system is involved.
  • #65 Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Symptoms and Treatment)
    https://patient.info/doctor/complex-regional-pain-syndrome-pro
    The diagnosis is clinical and may be difficult, particularly in the early stages of the syndrome where there may be little, if any, objective evidence of a problem. This classification means that complex regional pain syndrome can only be diagnosed if there are objective signs in the limb at the time the patient is seen. […] There is no cure for complex regional pain syndrome but the majority of patients will get better. If undiagnosed and untreated, complex regional pain syndrome can spread to all extremities such that the patient is completely incapacitated by the disease. Investigators are studying new approaches to treat complex regional pain syndrome and intervene more aggressively after traumatic injury to lower the patient’s chances of developing the disorder. There is some evidence the use of vitamin C in patients who have a fractured wrist may reduce their chances of developing CRPS.