Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Dr. Aronow provides effective, non-invasive rehabilitation of the nervous system for the treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). 

CRPS is a syndrome characterized by regional pain that is disproportionate in time or degree to the nature of the initial injury. CRPS can occur after any trauma, and can spread to parts of the body beyond the initial injury. 

Someone with CRPS can have all, or just some, of the following symptoms: 

• Continuous burning or throbbing pain

• Swelling that comes and goes

• Extra sensitivity to temperature or touch

• Skin changes: temperature and texture

• Skin color changes that can look like a bruise

• Hair and nail growth changes

• Difficulty moving the affected body part due to pain, weakness or stiffness

Treating CRPS requires a specific protocol and a thorough understanding of the problem. It’s highly recommended that CRPS be treated by a nervous system specialist. 

The Colorado Nerve Care protocol is an evidence-based paradigm that is tailored to each individual. The progression addresses changes in the nerves as well as the brain. 

The Colorado Nerve Care protocol includes: 

Laterality and homunculus training: quite often, the pain has spread beyond the original site. Laterality and homunculus training reduces the pain back to the original location and smaller size. 

Calming the nervous system: the nervous system and brain are on high alert. Calming the nervous system as a whole is the first step toward responding normally to sensations like temperature and touch. Effects are seen immediately, and patients may incorporate these techniques into their lifestyle to prevent a recurrence. 

Sensory training: Nerves can be taught to “feel accurately”  – that is, to feel lukewarm water as lukewarm, for example. 

Return to activity: the progression to activity includes Graded Motor Imagery, Graded Motor Activity, possibly mirror therapy, and supervised pacing.

Treating the whole person: dysregulation of the nervous system affects digestion, sleep, desire for intimacy, ability to socialize, and many other facets of a person’s life. Comprehensive treatment includes achieving health in all areas. 

Chat with a Doc to get answers to your unique questions: