How Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Affects the Body

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a life-altering condition that significantly affects the nervous system, causing severe and persistent pain. CRPS commonly develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack, with pain that is often much greater than expected for the initial event. This occurs due to dysfunction in both the peripheral and central nervous systems.

In CRPS, the peripheral nerves—those outside the brain and spinal cord—can become hypersensitive, sending excessive pain signals to the brain even in response to mild stimuli like light touch or movement (a phenomenon called allodynia). The sympathetic nervous system may also overreact, causing abnormal changes in skin color, temperature, and swelling in the affected limb.

The central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, is also deeply involved. Over time, the brain can become sensitized to pain signals (central sensitization), resulting in chronic pain that is difficult to control. Research has shown that CRPS can even lead to changes in the brain’s structure and function, impacting the way pain, emotion, and movement are processed.

This combination of nerve signaling disruptions can result in a complex array of symptoms, including:

Chronic, intense pain

• Sensory disturbances (burning, tingling, or numbness)
• Movement disorders (stiffness, tremors, or weakness)
• Emotional distress and reduced quality of life

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that often affects the nerves in the arms or legs. One of the hallmarks of CRPS is significant changes in the skin over the affected area. Many of our patients experience extreme sensitivity to touch—a symptom known as allodynia—which can make even gentle contact uncomfortable or painful.

Early in CRPS, you may notice that the skin appears red or flushed and feels warmer than usual. These changes are due to altered blood flow and nerve function. As the syndrome progresses, the affected skin can become colder, take on a bluish or mottled tone, and may swell, giving it a shiny or tight appearance. Over time, the skin may also thin and become more fragile, increasing the risk of sores or minor injuries.

Our team is also attentive to other changes that can occur with CRPS, such as excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) or dryness, as well as changes in nail and hair growth in the affected limb. These symptoms reflect the complex interaction between nerves, blood vessels, and the immune system that is characteristic of CRPS.

Early recognition and expert management are critical to preventing complications and improving quality of life. Our multidisciplinary approach combines advanced diagnostic tools, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing support to address both the pain and the skin changes associated with CRPS.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that can develop after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. At Modern Pain Management Clinic, we recognize that muscle weakness or stiffness is a common and challenging symptom for many of our patients with CRPS.

Muscle weakness and stiffness can arise for several reasons. The persistent pain of CRPS often leads patients to avoid moving the affected limb, which can result in decreased muscle use, muscle atrophy, and even permanent tightening of muscles, tendons, or ligaments (called contractures). Additionally, changes in the nervous system, inflammation, swelling, and altered blood flow in the affected area can further contribute to muscle weakness and stiffness.

At Modern Pain Management Clinic, our experienced team uses a multidisciplinary approach to address the symptoms of CRPS, including muscle weakness and stiffness. Our treatment plans may incorporate:

• Physical Therapy: Early and guided mobilization can help maintain muscle strength and flexibility, reduce stiffness, and improve overall function.
• Medication Management: Latest medications help to control pain and inflammation, allowing for more effective physical therapy.
• Interventional Procedures: Advanced techniques such as nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation may be considered for patients with severe symptoms.
• Personalized Care: We tailor each treatment plan to the unique needs and symptoms of our patients, focusing on restoring quality of life.

CRPS is a chronic pain disorder that frequently develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack, and is known for its profound impact on circulation and blood flow in the affected limb.

CRPS interferes with the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like blood vessel constriction and dilation. This disruption can lead to abnormal blood flow patterns—either excessive narrowing (vasoconstriction) or widening (vasodilation) of blood vessels. As a result, patients may notice the skin of the affected limb turning red, blue, or pale, along with significant temperature differences compared to the unaffected limb.

These changes can have real consequences: Reduced blood flow may cause coldness, numbness, and a bluish skin tone, while increased blood flow can lead to warmth, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, these abnormal circulation patterns may impair tissue health, leading to swelling, changes in skin texture, and, in severe cases, tissue damage or ulceration.

At Modern Pain Management Clinic, we understand that the persistent inflammation and abnormal nerve signaling present in CRPS can make blood vessels more reactive and unstable, further complicating symptoms. Our multidisciplinary team is experienced in early diagnosis and advanced pain management interventions specifically tailored for CRPS. Early recognition and personalized treatment are crucial in preventing permanent tissue damage and improving quality of life. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Houston TX and Sugar Land TX. We serve patients from Houston TX, Sugar Land TX, Pearland TX, Jersey Village TX, Missouri City TX, Stafford TX, and Richmond TX.