According to the Mayo Clinic, complex regional pain syndrome is an uncommon, chronic condition that usually affects the arm or leg. Patients with this condition commonly experience intense burning or aching pain in addition to swelling, skin discoloration, temperature changes, sweating and hypersensitivity in the affected arm or leg. Furthermore, 90 percent of patients with complex regional pain syndrome get the condition after an illness or injury that does not directly damage the nerve in the affected limb. Early treatment can result in a significant improvement in symptoms.
Medications
Complex regional pain syndrome is primarily treated with medications that reduce pain and inflammation associated with this condition. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may ease pain and inflammation, the Mayo Clinic says. These medications reduce chemical signals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. In certain cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants or anticonvulsants to treat pain associated with complex regional pain syndrome. In more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe corticosteroids, which are strong anti-inflammatory medications.
Physical Therapy
The Mayo Clinic states that physical therapy may be effective in treating complex regional pain syndrome. A physical therapist will teach and help the patient perform exercises that can improve range of motion and strength in the affected arm or leg. Frequent exercises during physical therapy and at home can improve symptoms because it keeps the affected muscles flexible and strong. Participating in physical therapy early in the course of the disease leads to better overall outcomes.
Nerve Block
In some cases, a doctor may recommend performing a nerve block, the Mayo Clinic says. This procedure involves injecting an anesthetic near the affected area or nerve to block pain signals from reaching the brain. Because the nerve is no longer active, some patients may notice a dramatic improvement in pain symptoms. Risks of this procedure include infection, excessive bleeding and nerve or tissue damage. Thus, the risks and benefits of a nerve block should be thoroughly discussed with the doctor before proceeding.
Biofeedback
According to the Mayo Clinic, biofeedback techniques may help relieve pain associated with complex regional pain syndrome. Biofeedback teaches the patient how to become more aware of the body. Furthermore, biofeedback teaches a patient how to relax and relieve pain associated with this condition. For biofeedback to be effective, a patient must be open to trying different biofeedback techniques.
