CRPS does not only follow accidents. It follows operations too, and after surgery it is especially easily dismissed.
What it is
The same self-sustaining pain loop can be triggered by a surgical injury as by a traumatic one.
Post-surgical CRPS is frequently attributed to a slow recovery, which delays the diagnosis at exactly the point where early treatment matters most.
How it usually presents
- Pain far exceeding what the operation should produce.
- Colour and temperature change in the limb.
- Swelling and sweating change.
- Extreme sensitivity to light touch.
- Stiffness and unwillingness to use the limb.
How we treat it
- Prompt recognition — this is the single biggest determinant of outcome.
- Stellate ganglion block or lumbar sympathetic block depending on the limb.
- Intensive physical therapy made possible by the blocks.
- See complex regional pain syndrome for the full picture.
To be assessed, call (314) 310-5577 or request an appointment.
Common questions
My surgeon says it is just a slow recovery. What should I do?
Disproportionate pain with colour, temperature or swelling change deserves a specific assessment. Time is the thing you cannot get back with CRPS.
Hurt in an accident? Start here.
You do not need a lawyer, a police report or a referral to be seen. Bring your symptoms and we will work out the rest.
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Same-day appointments are often available for new accident and injury patients.