Living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Living with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a challenging journey that often brings persistent pain, swelling, and sensitivity, in addition to a range of other symptoms as well. This condition can be triggered by injury, surgery, or trauma, and while its symptoms may vary from person to person, it can significantly impact daily life and emotional well-being.
If you have been diagnosed with this condition, you might be familiar with the complexity of the diagnostic process. One of the most significant hurdles is the lack of definitive diagnostic tests for CRPS. Doctors typically rely on a combination of patient history, physical examinations, and the exclusion of other potential causes. This process can be frustrating for individuals as they endure persistent pain without clear answers, often feeling dismissed or misunderstood by medical professionals who may not be familiar with CRPS.
BEST Health System works with complex regional pain syndrome patients to help them achieve relief from their chronic conditions. We believe that complex regional pain syndrome is underserved, encouraging us to care in this healthcare gap.
At-Home Treatments to Manage CRPS
Managing complex regional pain syndrome at home is an important part of managing this chronic condition. While professional medical care is essential, integrating at-home treatments can complement these efforts and provide daily relief.
One effective approach is practicing gentle physical activity and movement therapy. Regular, low-impact exercises like stretching, yoga, or tai chi can help maintain mobility, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness. Pain management techniques like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm the nervous system and lower stress, which often exacerbates pain. Additionally, focusing on overall health through a nutritious diet and adequate hydration supports the body’s healing process. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, omega-3-rich fish, and nuts may help reduce systemic inflammation.
Minimally Invasive Surgery for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Patients with complex regional pain syndrome may consider minimally invasive surgery if they do not achieve relief through conservative therapies. Neuromodulation is an advanced treatment option that involves the implantation of a small device in the lower back with lead wires that connect to the spinal cord to send tiny electrical pulses that block pain signals. This is an excellent treatment route for patients with CRPS, neuropathy, failed back surgery syndrome, and other chronic pain conditions. This is a minimally invasive option that can minimize patients’ dependence on pain management drugs and can offer permanent relief.
BEST Health System
BEST Health System partners with clinics across the country to improve patient access to quality chronic pain care. Our Interventional Pain Management doctors work closely with patients to understand their condition and help them achieve meaningful relief. Have you recently been diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome, or suspect you have this condition?
Schedule your consultation with a provider near you today.
