Complex regional pain syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome
Symptoms, causes and treatment
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a rare and chronic pain condition that typically affects an arm or a leg, although it can occur in other parts of the body as well. CRPS is characterized by intense, persistent pain that is disproportionate to the initial injury or trauma. It often develops following a traumatic injury, surgery, or even minor trauma such as a sprain. The exact cause of CRPS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve abnormal responses from the central and peripheral nervous systems, leading to chronic pain and various other symptoms.
Symptoms
The symptoms of CRPS can vary in severity and may include:
Persistent and intense pain: the pain experienced in CRPS is often described as burning, throbbing, or shooting and may be accompanied by increased sensitivity to touch and temperature changes.
Swelling and changes in skin color and temperature: The affected area may appear swollen, and the skin may show changes in color, ranging from pale and blotchy to red or purple. The skin may also feel warmer or cooler than the surrounding areas.
Changes in skin texture: The skin over the affected area may become shiny, thin, and may develop excessive sweating.
Joint stiffness and limited mobility: CRPS can lead to stiffness and limited movement in the affected limb, making it difficult to perform daily activities.
Muscle weakness and spasms: Some individuals with CRPS may experience muscle weakness, stiffness or spasms in the affected limb.
Psychological and emotional symptoms: Chronic pain can often lead to emotional distress, including anxiety and depression.
Chiropractic Care and its potential benefits for CRPS
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing various musculoskeletal conditions and pain disorders. While CRPS primarily involves the nervous system, chiropractic care may offer certain benefits for individuals with this condition, particularly in relation to musculoskeletal issues that can arise as secondary effects of CRPS.
Pain Management. Chiropractors are skilled in assessing and treating musculoskeletal pain. Through various manual techniques, they can address areas of joint dysfunction and muscle tension, potentially reducing some of the secondary pain associated with CRPS.
Improvement in range of motion: Chiropractors can help improve joint mobility and flexibility, which may be compromised in CRPS due to joint stiffness and limited movement.
Addressing muscle imbalances: CRPS can lead to muscle imbalances, where certain muscles become weak and others become overactive. Chiropractors can develop targeted exercise programs to address these imbalances, aiding in muscle recovery and improving overall function.
Adjunct therapy to other treatments: Chiropractic care can be used in conjunction with other treatments for CRPS, such as physical therapy, pain medications, and psychological support. It may provide an additional dimension to the overall management of the condition.
Holistic approach: Chiropractors often take a holistic approach to patient care, considering not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and psychological aspects of pain. This approach can be beneficial for individuals coping with the emotional distress that often accompanies chronic pain conditions like CRPS.
Important Considerations
While chiropractic care may offer benefits for some individuals with CRPS, it is essential to consider a few important factors:
Individual Variation: CRPS is a complex condition, and its symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. What works for one individual may not be as effective for another.
Collaborative Care: Chiropractors should work in collaboration with the patient’s primary care physician and other specialists involved in managing CRPS to ensure a well-coordinated approach to treatment.
Patient’s Comfort: Chiropractors should always prioritize the patient’s comfort and tailor treatment plans to accommodate any sensitivities or limitations the individual may have.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a challenging condition characterized by chronic pain and various associated symptoms. While chiropractic care may not directly treat the root cause of CRPS, it can offer potential benefits for addressing secondary musculoskeletal issues, improving mobility, and providing pain relief. As with any medical condition, it is crucial for individuals with CRPS to work closely with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan that suits their specific needs and condition.
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Alive Chiropractic Poundbury
1C Crown gate square DT1 3EJ
Poundbury, Dorchester
Tel. 01305602314
Mob. 07845096314
Email Address
reception@alivechiropractic.co.uk









I have 38 years of patchy recovery from a nursing back injury.
This intensive approach has markedly reduced my painful episodes and spinal posture problems.
My family has noticed a big difference in me with many obvious and subtle improvements.
I look forward to continuing this progress with both Edo and Phil to achieve further improvements.






Saved me from different injuries and helped me a lot of chronic issues I was dealing with.
He is a saviour.
Highly recommended









You are always polite, very knowledgeable with great approach to patients.
To all interested - do not hesitate, I highly recommend! See you soon!

Will definitely be visiting again!

I would fully recommend Alive Chiropractic,
Edo is a very warm, welcoming caring and does not judge.





He explained what and how he was going to help me , had an extensive treatment period to begin with and then became a monthly visitor .
He has been so much help to me over this time and I would recommend his gifts to everyone.
A truly lovely man and gifted communicator and practitioner.
If in pain go and give him a try , living in a body that feels like a prison is no fun but this guy has the keys to set you free!

Offers practical advice for individuals of any age
Explains proposed programs well
Very confident that treatment will be successful
Highly recommend
I am sleeping more comfortably again, my walking has improved too, my confidence has improved, I was treated with great respect. I have learnt new exercises which also has helped thanks to Ed owner of Alive chiropractor and Phil too for his excellent deep tissue massage therapy. I cannot thank them both enough, I feel like a new person!
Iโve now signed up for a regular maintenance programme. Thank you both very much, itโs very much appreciated.

He certainly has 'healing hands'.
Clearly passionate about his profession, not only does his treatment keep you supple. He also gives plenty of advise & exercises to keep yourself active.
The waiting room area is that of peace & tranquility with soothing background music.
There is ample free parking.
You've nothing to lose but everything to gain if you want to stay fit, healthy and active.
I highly recommend his expertise & personalised approach.
I highly recommend Edo and Alive Chiropractic. Great service from initial assessment, to treatment, and ongoing progress checks. As well as a range of exercises to continue at home.
As well as the work he done with me in the clinic, he has taught me many different exercises to help me with the problems in which i suffer with, as well as explaining to me how my diet can also help me going forward.
He has been a great help, and i shall continue to see him in the future so that he can help me maintain ( and improve) my well being.
Regards
Peter



Dr Edo provides a whole body approach to resolving chiropractic issues. His care plan to help solve your unique issues is fantastic, short and simple adjustments rather than long sessions of big adjustments has worked brilliantly for me. Communications are easy and booking ahead is brilliant for me and my schedule.
I canโt recommend Alive highly enough!

The reception is also very welcoming. I very much recommend this place!




Dr Edo is professional, knowledge, and believes firmly in his work which he is clearly passionate about. I feel he has an empowering vision, cares deeply, and has a refreshing balance of western and eastern understanding. Because of this, Dr Edo has a deeper, holistic approach by taking into account all aspects of one's lifestyle (diet, exercise, mental/emotional state) in sessions. For someone like myself who values a holistic perspective on health, Dr Edo's approach is invaluable and helped me relax and feel at great ease. Sam in reception is lovely and you instantly feel welcomed when coming in for a session also. Thank you to you both. Highly recommend!



Thank you!






I will happily recommend Alive Chiropractic to my friends.


Ed takes a very holistic approach, encouraging me to lose weight and work on different rehab exercises to reinforce the manipulations and adjustments he made.
Here I am some three months on, I weigh a lot less, I have incredible flexibility in my lower back and can now touch my toes and, best of all. I have full flexibility of my neck.
Eds holistic approach really works, he is very approachable and easy to chat about things with.
One caveat, Ed knows when you haven't done your exercises so don't cheat. ๐
I cannot thank him enough for the massive improvements in my health and his encouraging me to make little changes for a healthier long term lifestyle.
