MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is severe, ongoing pain, usually in a limb, that is out of proportion to any injury, often with changes in skin colour, temperature and swelling. Early treatment gives the best outcome.
Causes & risk factors
- Often follows an injury, fracture or surgery
- An abnormal response of the nervous system to injury
- The exact cause is not fully understood
- May occur after minor injuries
Common symptoms
- Severe burning pain in a limb
- Swelling of the affected limb
- Changes in skin colour or temperature
- Extreme sensitivity to touch
- Numbness or tingling
- Stiffness and reduced movement
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical diagnosis (history and exam)
- X-ray
- Bone scan
- Tests to exclude other causes
Treatment & management
- Early physiotherapy to keep the limb moving
- Nerve-pain medicines
- Pain-management programmes and psychological support
- Occupational therapy
- Specialist procedures such as nerve blocks in some cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe, persistent limb pain out of proportion to an injury — get reviewed early
- Spreading pain, swelling or skin changes
- Loss of function in the limb
- Low mood or thoughts of self-harm from chronic pain — seek help promptly
Frequently asked questions
Why does CRPS hurt so much more than the injury should?
In CRPS the nervous system overreacts, amplifying pain signals long after the original injury. This is why the pain is severe and out of proportion, and why it needs specialist pain management.
Can CRPS improve?
Yes, especially with early treatment. Keeping the limb moving with physiotherapy, along with nerve-pain medicines and pain-management support, gives the best chance of improvement.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.