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Pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Treatment: Recent Advancements

  • Pain Management (S Mace, Section Editor)
  • Published:
Current Emergency and Hospital Medicine Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a painful and debilitating disorder involving dysfunction in multiple body systems. This review seeks to evaluate recent data and present treatment options for the practical management of this condition.

Recent Findings

The mechanism by which CRPS develops is multifactorial, affecting both the peripheral and central nervous systems, and nerve changes can be seen at a histologic level. Treatment should be initiated as early as possible, as the chronic disease is less responsive to intervention.

Summary

CRPS is a clinical diagnosis; treatment is symptomatic and aimed at addressing the sensory, vasomotor, sudomotor, and trophic changes which occur in the context of severe pain. Management may include therapy, oral or intravenous medication, procedures, or surgery.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Management, and Perioperative Medicine, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA

    Sarah Money

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  1. Sarah Money
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Correspondence to Sarah Money.

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Money, S. Pathophysiology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Treatment: Recent Advancements. Curr Emerg Hosp Med Rep 7, 203–207 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40138-019-00198-x

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