Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

If you suffer from the discomfort that complex regional pain syndrome causes, turn to the experts at Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness in San Diego, California. Founder Lindsey Garrett, RN, MBA, CCRN, and team member Benjamin Illum, MD, provide treatment that can alleviate pain and increase your mobility. Learn about your treatment options by calling today or booking online now

What is complex regional pain syndrome?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that causes severe and prolonged pain, typically affecting one limb, often after an injury or trauma. However, it can also occur without a known injury. 

CRPS is considered a malfunction in the nervous system where the body’s response to injury or trauma becomes exaggerated and continues even after the initial injury has healed.

What are the symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome?

Symptoms of CRPS include:

• Persistent, severe pain that may burn or throb
• Swelling, stiffness, and decreased ability to move the affected limb
• Sensitivity to touch or cold, with even light touch causing severe pain
• Changes in nail and hair growth patterns
• Muscle weakness and involuntary muscle contractions

It can also cause changes in your skin color and temperature of the affected area, making your skin appear red, blue, or pale. It might also feel warmer or cooler than the surrounding area.

What causes complex regional pain syndrome?

The exact cause of CRPS isn’t fully understood. However, it may result from an abnormal response by your peripheral and central nervous systems to an injury or trauma, causing an inflammatory response and changes in how you process pain signals.

Genetic, environmental, and psychological factors might be involved.

I have complex regional pain syndrome. What are my treatment options?

At Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness, the team offers alternative treatments that include:

Intravenous (IV) ketamine infusions

Ketamine, an anesthetic agent, has shown promise in treating chronic pain conditions like CRPS. When administered in controlled doses intravenously, ketamine helps temper pain signals in the brain and may provide relief. It’s believed to interrupt the cycle of pain signaling and reset nerve pathways.

Treatment outcomes can vary for each individual. However, the Dreamscape Ketamine and Wellness team creates a personalized plan specifically tailored to your condition and needs. They also regularly assess your progress to optimize pain management and functional improvement.

To learn more about CRPS and to find out what treatment might be right for you, reach out today to book an appointment by phone or online.