Koch and McCann

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is an extremely complicated medical condition usually caused by an injury. Some doctors still call it by the old name of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). If you have this condition, it probably took a long time for the doctors to diagnose it. This is a fairly rare disease and difficult to recognize. Even though it was clearly described 125 years ago, CRPS remains poorly understood. It can also be quite devastating.

PAIN - This pain and lack of mobility is well out of proportion to the injury suffered. Sometimes even a sliver in the finger can cause CRPS. The pain is usually in one or more extremities (arms, legs, hands, feet). It is described as severe, constant, burning or deep. Slight stimulation, like clothing, air temperature and light tapping can cause an increase of pain. The pain may be diffuse (all over an area), or it may be in tender points, or there may be sharp, shooting pains in the affected area.
SKIN CHANGES - Skin may appear shiny, dry and scaly. Hair may grow coarse and then thin out. Nails may become brittle. The affected limb may feel warmer or cooler than the other limb. It may sweat for no reason or become chilled and show goose flesh. There may be color changes ranging from white pallor to a deep red or blue appearance.
SWELLING - Swelling is usually diffuse on the limb. It may be soft and spongy or hard.
MOVEMENT DISORDER - There often is a loss of movement due to the pain. Some people describe a stiffness in their joints. Decreased mobility over a long period of time can cause deconditioning and muscle wasting. There may be tremors or involuntary jerking.
SPREADING PAIN - At first, the symptom may be localized to the site of the injury. But as time progresses, the pain begins to spread throughout the affected limb and may even spread to other parts of the body.

Koch & McCann law firm specializes in medically complicated and difficult cases, including CRPS. For both personal injury, as well as workers compensation claims. Our staff is uniquely trained to answer questions from both the medical and legal perspective. So give us a call for a free consultation. You can also use our web site to access more information and support through our resources page.