Diagnosing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic, painful nerve condition that affects millions of Americans each year. CRPS is a chronic pain condition that most often affects one limb usually after an injury. The condition is believed to be caused by damage to, or malfunction of, the peripheral and central nervous systems.

If you or a loved one suffered CRPS as a result of an injury caused by the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to compensation. You should immediately consult with an experienced Orange County CRPS injury attorney to protect your legal rights and help you get the full compensation that you deserve.

The Two Categories of CRPS

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is divided into two categories: CRPS-I and CRPS-II. Individuals who are not confirmed with a nerve injury are classified as having CRPS-I (previously called reflex dystrophy syndrome). CRPS-II (previously called causalgia) is when there is an associated, confirmed nerve injury. Although CRPS is divided into two categories, treatment is nonetheless similar.

What Are the Symptoms of CRPS?

The main symptom of CRPS is prolonged severe pain that may be constant. Sufferers generally describe the pain as “burning,” “pins and needles” sensation, or as if someone were squeezing the affected limb. CRPS related pain can spread to the entire arm or leg, even though the injury might have only involved a finger or toe. In some cases, pain can even travel to the opposite extremity.

Another common symptom associated with CRPS is sensitivity in the affected area, known as allydonia, in which normal contact with the skin is experienced as extremely painful. Other common symptoms of CRPS include:

• Changes in skin temperature or skin color
• Swelling of the affected limb
• Changes in skin texture on the affected area; it may appear shiny and thin
• Abnormal sweating pattern in the affected area or surrounding areas
• Changes in nail and hair growth patterns
• Stiffness in affected joints
• Problems coordinating muscle movement, with decreased ability to move the affected body part
• Abnormal movement in the affected limb, most often fixed abnormal posture (called dystonia) but also tremors in or jerking of the limb.

Contact an Experienced Orange County CRPS Injury Attorney

At the Law Offices of Samer Habbas, we specialize in personal injury litigation of all matters – especially emerging cases involving CRPS. Our Los Angeles CRPS injury attorneys will work hard to protect your legal rights, refer you to the best medical specialists, and try to recover all of your CRPS-related expenses. For more information to schedule a free consultation with our legal team, please call 949-727-9300.