In this Article

• Introduction to Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
• What Causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
• What Are the Symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
• How Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Diagnosed?
• How Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treated?
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Glossary
• Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Index

How Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treated?

Since there is no cure for CRPS, the goal of treatment is to relieve painful symptoms associated with the disorder. Therapies used include psychotherapy , physical therapy , and drug treatment , such as topical analgesics, narcotics, corticosteroids, antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs.

Other treatments include:

• Sympathetic nerve blocks: These blocks, which are done in a variety of ways, can provide significant pain relief for some people. One kind of block involves placing an anesthetic next to the spine to directly block the sympathetic nerves.
• Surgical sympathectomy: This controversial technique destroys the nerves involved in CRPS. Some experts believe it has a favorable outcome, while others feel it makes CRPS worse. The technique should be considered only for people whose pain is dramatically but temporarily relieved by selective sympathetic blocks.
• Intrathecal drug pumps: Pumps and implanted catheters are used to send pain-relieving medication into the spinal fluid.
• Spinal cord stimulation: This technique, in which electrodes are placed next to the spinal cord, offers relief for many people with the condition.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• prednisone, Deltasone, Liquid Pred - Defines the medication prednisone (Deltasone, Liquid Pred) a drug used for suppressing the immune system and inflammation. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interaction, and side effects.
• Pain Management - Learn about pain management and pain treatment options for nociceptive, neuropathic pain (for example fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome), and chronic pain.
• prednisolone, Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol - Defines the medication prednisolone (Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol) a drug used used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, colitis, asthma, bronchitis, certain skin rashes, and allergic or inflammatory conditions of the nose and eyes. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.

Read more Complex Regional Pain Syndrome related articles »

Latest Medical News

• Boomers Doomed to Disability?
• Gender Divorce Gap After Illness Strikes
• Cigarette Smoking's Decline Levels Off
• 22 Million Cases of Swine Flu in U.S.