Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment in Louisiana
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a type of chronic, long-lasting pain that usually develops in an arm or leg after an injury. With CRPS, you may have severe, unexplained pain that won’t go away and may spread. LA Pain Doctor has extensive experience treating CRPS for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is CRPS?
CRPS, once called reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), happens when the nervous system overreacts after an injury such as a fracture, sprain, surgery, or crush injury. Instead of settling down as the injury heals, pain signals become amplified and persist. The sympathetic nervous system, which controls blood flow, temperature, and sweating, often becomes involved, leading to visible changes in the affected limb.
Symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
- Burning, throbbing, or stabbing pain far out of proportion to the original injury
- Extreme sensitivity to touch, cold, or even clothing
- Swelling and stiffness in the affected arm, hand, leg, or foot
- Changes in skin color, temperature, or texture
- Changes in hair and nail growth
- Muscle weakness, tremors, or reduced movement
Why Early Treatment Matters
CRPS responds best when treated early. Without care, pain can spread and the limb can become stiff and weak from lack of use. If you have pain after an injury that is getting worse instead of better, a prompt evaluation is important.
How We Treat CRPS
Our goal is to calm the overactive nerves, relieve pain, and restore movement. For CRPS in the arm or hand, a stellate ganglion block can interrupt sympathetic nerve signals, while a lumbar sympathetic blocks treats CRPS in the leg or foot. These blocks are often given as a series and paired with physical therapy so you can move the limb more comfortably.
We also offer nerve-calming medications through our pain medication management program. For patients with persistent CRPS, a spinal cord stimulator trial is one of the most effective advanced treatments, and intrathecal pump implants may help in some cases. Read our guide on living with CRPS and learn about related nerve conditions such as Peripheral Neuropathy and Phantom Pain. Explore our shoulder and arm pain treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment
What causes complex regional pain syndrome?
CRPS usually develops after an injury, surgery, or trauma to an arm or leg, when the nervous system overreacts and pain persists.
Is CRPS the same as RSD?
Yes. Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is an older name for one type of CRPS.
Can CRPS go away?
Some patients improve significantly, especially with early treatment. Others need ongoing care to manage symptoms.
What nerve blocks treat CRPS?
Stellate ganglion blocks treat CRPS in the arm, and lumbar sympathetic blocks treat CRPS in the leg.
Can a spinal cord stimulator help CRPS?
Yes. Spinal cord stimulation is one of the most effective treatments for persistent CRPS.
Why is physical therapy important?
Gentle movement helps prevent stiffness and weakness and works best when pain is controlled with nerve blocks.
Where can I get CRPS treatment?
LA Pain Doctor treats CRPS at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Get Expert Care for CRPS
Early treatment makes a difference. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.