Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Treatment
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic condition causing severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. At Sean’s Massage Center, we offer specialized treatments, including massage therapy, reflexology, and acupuncture, to help manage CRPS symptoms and improve mobility. Serving Columbus, OH, and surrounding areas, we are committed to holistic pain relief. Call (614) 327-4338 to start your journey to relief.
Holistic treatments for CRPS—because your body deserves the best.
A Whole-Body Approach to Healing
Our holistic perspective has been a guiding force throughout our journey in understanding and addressing the neurological symptoms of CRPS. We don’t see the body as a collection of separate, independent parts but as an intricately connected system. Its intelligence operates beyond human comprehension—every moment, cells regenerate, hormones balance, and nutrients are absorbed and distributed effortlessly. This remarkable process reinforces the need to approach healing by treating the body as a unified whole.
Massage, acupuncture, and reflexology—proven CRPS relief awaits!
Frequent Symptoms Associated with CRPS
Cognitive Haze & Memory Struggles
▸ Difficulty focusing, mental exhaustion, and forgetfulness are frequent cognitive challenges linked to CRPS.
Early-Onset Asthma
▸ Many individuals with CRPS recall experiencing asthma or other respiratory issues in childhood, possibly indicating early nervous system involvement.
Recurring Bladder Infections
▸ Persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder dysfunction may stem from nerve-related complications.
CRPS Progression to New Areas
▸ Over time, CRPS can expand beyond its original site, affecting additional limbs or regions of the body.
Weakened Immune Response
▸ Many CRPS sufferers find themselves more prone to illness and prolonged recovery times due to immune system dysregulation.
Digestive System Imbalances
▸ Symptoms like bloating, nausea, constipation, and irritable bowel issues often accompany CRPS due to nervous system involvement.
Chronic Sleep Disruptions
▸ Falling asleep, staying asleep, and achieving restorative rest can be difficult, contributing to fatigue and heightened pain.
History of Persistent Infections
▸ Prior exposure to viruses and bacteria, such as Lyme disease or Epstein-Barr virus, may play a role in the development or worsening of CRPS symptoms.
POTS & EDS Overlap
▸ Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) frequently co-occur with CRPS, leading to circulation and connective tissue challenges.
Emotional Trauma & PTSD
▸ Psychological stress and past traumatic events can intensify CRPS symptoms, as emotional health is closely tied to pain perception and nervous system function.
Your path to a pain-free life starts here. Let’s begin—schedule today!
Understanding Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
CRPS, or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, has been known by many names throughout history, including reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), causalgia, Sudeck’s atrophy, minor traumatic dystrophy, and algodystrophy. Despite these different terms, they all describe a condition that causes severe, long-lasting pain and other symptoms affecting the nervous system. For simplicity, we will refer to it as CRPS.
This condition is significantly more common in women than men, with about 75% more cases occurring in females. While CRPS can affect people of any age, including young children, it is most frequently diagnosed in adults around midlife.
CRPS is a chronic and progressive disorder, meaning it often worsens over time. Some individuals may experience localized pain that remains in one area, while others may notice that their symptoms slowly spread over the years. In more severe cases, CRPS can progress rapidly, affecting multiple areas of the body within a short period. Research shows that around 35% of people with CRPS eventually develop symptoms throughout their entire body.
Because of its complex nature, CRPS can be challenging to diagnose and treat. Early intervention and a whole-body approach to care may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Stop suffering in silence—holistic CRPS treatment is here.
Types and Phases of CRPS
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a condition linked to dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, leading to chronic pain, disability, and loss of function. The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) classifies CRPS into two main types based on the presence or absence of nerve damage.
Types of CRPS
CRPS Type I (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy – RSD)
- Previously known as Sudeck’s atrophy or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD).
- No identifiable nerve injury is present.
- The most common form of CRPS affects the majority of patients.
CRPS Type II (Causalgia)
- Previously referred to as causalgia.
- Occurs when clear nerve damage is present.
- Typically more painful than Type I, with a 47/50 score on the McGill Pain Scale, making it one of the most severe pain conditions.
Phases of CRPS
CRPS was once thought to progress through three distinct stages, but research now suggests that not all patients follow a predictable progression or move through these stages in order.
Stage 1: Acute Phase (“Wet CRPS”)
- Symptoms:
- Severe burning pain at the injury site.
- Muscle spasms, joint stiffness, and swelling.
- Restricted movement and decreased temperature in the affected area.
- Vasospasms (blood vessel constriction), lead to poor circulation.
- Increased nail and hair growth.
- Excessive sweating (hence the term “wet CRPS”).
Duration: It can last for a few weeks and, in rare cases, may resolve independently. However, for most patients, symptoms worsen over time.
Stage 2: Dystrophic Phase
- Symptoms:
- Pain intensifies, often described as “burning alive” or “being torched”.
- Hair growth slows or stops altogether.
- Swelling increases and osteoporosis becomes more severe.
- Nail changes: Nails may crack, develop grooves or form spots.
- Joints thicken, leading to stiffness and restricted movement.
- Muscle atrophy (shrinking muscles) causes the affected limb to appear thinner than the other.
Stage 3: Chronic Phase (“Atrophic CRPS”)
- Symptoms:
- Permanent changes in skin and bone structure.
- Pain becomes more widespread and severe, often spreading to the entire limb.
- Flexor tendon contractions may develop, causing fingers or toes to curl into a claw-like position.
- Symptoms may spread to other body systems, including the optic nerves (vision problems) or the digestive system (gastrointestinal issues).
We specialize in CRPS treatment so you can focus on living.
Finding Answers and Relief Doesn’t Have to Take Forever
For many people living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), the journey to a correct diagnosis is exhausting, frustrating, and often deeply disheartening. The typical CRPS patient sees multiple doctors over several months or even years, navigating a confusing and overwhelming maze of hospitals, clinics, and specialists. The sheer number of medical appointments, tests, and procedures they endure is something most people can’t even begin to fathom.
Throughout this journey, CRPS patients are often subjected to countless examinations, misdiagnoses, and ineffective treatments. They may be prodded, poked, and even prescribed procedures that unintentionally worsen their condition. Worse yet, they frequently face skepticism about their pain, sometimes being dismissed as exaggerating their symptoms or even falsely accused of seeking pain medications for the wrong reasons.
Far too many CRPS patients remain undiagnosed for years, suffering in silence and left without the answers they desperately need. In many cases, they are the ones who piece together their symptoms through extensive online research, only to face the added challenge of convincing their doctors to take their findings seriously.
It doesn’t have to be this way. There are better, faster paths to relief, and no one with CRPS should have to suffer alone or be left without the compassionate care they deserve.
Your CRPS journey is unique—so is our approach to healing.
The Vagus Nerve’s Role in CRPS
The Vagus Nerve acts like a communication highway between the brain and the body, helping regulate pain, inflammation, and the nervous system. When it’s working well, it keeps everything in balance—calming the body and reducing inflammation.
In CRPS, this system breaks down. Instead of sending clear signals, the Vagus Nerve becomes sluggish, like a traffic jam blocking important messages. This disruption keeps the body stuck in a cycle of pain, inflammation, and stress.
By improving vagus nerve function—through deep breathing, relaxation techniques, or specific therapies—CRPS patients may find relief, helping the body reset and heal.
CRPS doesn’t have to take over your life. Let’s fight it together
Healing Starts From Within
Our treatment is designed to restore the natural flow, tone, and function of the Vagus Nerve—gently and without side effects.
Rather than simply masking pain or numbing symptoms, we address the root cause by identifying imbalances in the central nervous system. By bringing the nervous system back into harmony, true healing begins from the inside out, allowing the body to recover naturally and effectively.
Pain relief is possible—let’s start your CRPS treatment today.
FAQs
CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) is often described as one of the most excruciating and relentless types of pain. Imagine a fire burning beneath your skin, mixed with electric shocks, stabbing sensations, and deep aching pain that never fully fades. The affected area might feel like it’s on fire one moment and ice-cold the next. Even the lightest touch—like a breeze or a bedsheet—can cause unbearable pain. Swelling, stiffness, skin color changes, and extreme sensitivity make everyday activities challenging. CRPS is more than just physical pain; it can take a toll on your emotions, mental health, and overall quality of life.
CRPS is considered rare, but it’s not unheard of. It affects roughly 5.5 out of every 100,000 people yearly, though some experts believe the numbers could be higher due to misdiagnosis or lack of awareness. It can develop after an injury, surgery, or even something as minor as a sprain or needle prick. Despite being rare, for those living with it, CRPS is very real and life-altering. Raising awareness is key to helping people get diagnosed early and receive proper treatment.
CRPS itself does not directly cause other diseases, but it can lead to complications that affect overall health. The constant pain and inflammation can weaken the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections. The emotional toll of chronic pain can contribute to depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In some cases, CRPS may affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to issues with blood pressure, digestion, and circulation. Early intervention and a strong support system can help prevent further complications.
There is no single test to diagnose CRPS, which can make the process frustrating. Doctors rely on a combination of medical history, physical exams, and specialized tests like thermography (to detect temperature differences), bone scans, and autonomic function tests. The best way to help your doctor understand your experience is to keep a detailed pain journal. Document your symptoms, pain levels, flare-ups, and anything that worsens or improves your condition. Since CRPS is often misunderstood, advocating for yourself and seeking a specialist who understands the condition can make a big difference.
Currently, there is no definitive cure for CRPS, but many people experience significant relief with the right treatment. Physical therapy, nerve blocks, pain management techniques, and even alternative treatments like massage, acupuncture, and meditation can help improve symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance of recovery. While some people go into remission, others may live with CRPS long-term, managing their symptoms through lifestyle adjustments and ongoing care. Every case is unique, and hope should never be lost.
CRPS itself is not fatal, but the severe and relentless pain can lead to serious mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. It’s essential to seek support—whether through therapy, support groups, or connecting with others who understand what you’re going through. Pain may be invisible, but your struggles are real, and you are never alone. Reaching out for help can make a world of difference.
CRPS primarily affects the nervous system, targeting the skin, muscles, bones, and blood vessels. It does not typically spread to organs in the way that diseases like cancer do. However, because CRPS affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls functions like heart rate, digestion, and temperature regulation, some people may experience complications related to those systems. In severe cases, CRPS can lead to widespread dysfunction, impacting multiple areas of the body. Managing symptoms early and staying active can help reduce the risk of complications.
For some people, CRPS improves over time, especially with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Others may experience flare-ups that come and go, while some live with chronic pain for many years. Each case is unique—some people achieve remission, while others must continually manage symptoms. With the right combination of treatments, self-care, and support, many individuals find ways to improve their quality of life and regain control.
CRPS is often described in three general stages:
–Acute Stage (0-3 months)
–Dystrophic Stage (3-6 months)
–Atrophic Stage (After 6 months)
While some people progress through these stages, others experience CRPS differently. Early treatment can slow or even reverse some of these changes.
CRPS pain management often requires a multi-faceted approach, including:
–Physical therapy to keep muscles moving and prevent stiffness
–Medications (such as nerve pain medications, anti-inflammatories, or muscle relaxants)
–Nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulators for severe cases
–Alternative therapies, including massage, acupuncture, and heat therapy
–Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness
–A strong support system, because mental and emotional well-being play a crucial role in pain management
CRPS symptoms can worsen due to:
-Cold weather
-Stress and anxiety
-Inactivity or immobilization
-Physical injury or trauma
-Poor sleep or exhaustion
Recognizing these triggers and making lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms.
CRPS is often triggered by a minor injury, surgery, or nerve damage. Even something as small as a sprain or a needle prick can sometimes lead to the condition. The body’s pain response goes haywire, continuing to send pain signals long after the injury has healed. Understanding this early can help guide treatment and prevent worsening symptoms.
CRPS affects the nervous system in a way that amplifies pain signals. The body reacts as if it’s constantly under attack, keeping the pain cycle going indefinitely. The brain perceives pain even when there is no actual injury, making CRPS one of the most difficult conditions to live with.
CRPS ranks among the most painful conditions known to medical science, scoring higher than childbirth, amputation, and kidney stones on the McGill Pain Index. The unrelenting nature of the pain makes it incredibly challenging to endure, both physically and emotionally.
While rare, CRPS can impact the autonomic nervous system, which controls various bodily functions, including the eyes. Some people with CRPS report dry eyes, sensitivity to light, or vision changes. If you experience eye issues, consulting a specialist can help manage symptoms.
