Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in Northern New Jersey
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a type of unexplained, chronic pain that ranges from mild to severe. CRPS can make work, play, and everyday tasks difficult and affect multiple areas of your life, from physical health to social and emotional wellbeing. At Bergen Pain Management in Paramus, West New York, and Union, New Jersey, Dr. Thomas Ragukonis can help you find the relief you need. Dr. Ragukonis is an award-winning physician experienced in minimally invasive and non-surgical approaches to pain management. Learn more about CRPS and the treatment options we offer.
What Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Conditions that impact your neck may affect the rest of your body as well, making it imperative to seek treatment with Dr. Ragukonis as soon as you experience concerning symptoms. He specializes in identifying and diagnosing a variety of cervical pain conditions, including:
CRPS is a rare form of chronic pain that affects the extremities. While the vast majority of CRPS patients experience symptoms following a specific physical event, this is not always the case. CRPS may present after the following:
- Surgery
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Fractures
- Sprains/strains
- Burns, cuts, and other minor injuries
- Casting after a bone break
Most of the time, the pain of CRPS is more severe than the initial injury. It presents as a type of bodily response that mirrors an allergy or overreaction that may also involve the immune and nervous systems. A patient’s genes may be a determining factor, as well.
Signs and Symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
If left untreated, CRPS can take a heavy toll on a patient’s physical and mental wellbeing. The longevity and symptoms of CRPS vary from patient to patient and may change over time or spread from the point of origin to other areas of the body. Telltale signs and symptoms of CRPS include:
- Redness and swelling
- Constant burning or throbbing pain
- Changes in skin temperature
- Hypersensitivity
- Joint stiffness
- Pins and needles feeling
- Impaired muscular strength or movement
- Change in hair or nails
The first four symptoms listed above are typically the first to present. As time passes, the limb can become cold and pale and skin and nail changes may occur, at which point the condition is often irreversible. As with many other medical conditions, early treatment for CRPS often results in the most positive outcomes.
CRPS Treatment Options at Bergen Pain Management
Symptoms of CRPS can resolve on their own in mild cases, while other patients may experience symptoms for months or even years. When it comes to this condition, we offer several treatment options, including:
- Pain relievers
- Antidepressants
- Hot and cold therapy
- Physical therapy
- Biofeedback
- Spinal cord stimulator
- Nerve blocks
Finding relief starts with finding the right practice. At Bergen Pain Management, we’ll listen to your concerns with care and help you understand the best possible treatments and outcomes for your condition. Dr. Ragukonis consults with each CRPS patient to create an individualized treatment plan that suits their needs best.