Rheumatological and Systemic Conditions
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Physiotherapy in Indirapuram
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition where pain in an arm or leg becomes severe and out of proportion to the original injury, often with swelling, colour and temperature changes. It's poorly understood but treatable, and early active treatment gives the best outcomes.
Recognising CRPS
It usually develops after an injury, fracture or surgery, commonly in the wrist or ankle. Signs include burning pain, extreme sensitivity to touch, swelling, changes in skin colour and temperature, altered hair and nail growth, and stiffness. People often protect the limb completely.
Early recognition matters. If pain after a fracture or surgery is getting worse instead of better, or seems out of proportion, tell your doctor or physiotherapist.
Why movement matters
Protecting the limb is understandable, but it tends to worsen CRPS. The nervous system becomes increasingly sensitised. Gentle, graded reintroduction of movement and touch helps calm it.
Treatment approaches
Graded motor imagery is a structured approach that starts with recognising left and right limbs in pictures, progresses to imagined movements, then mirror therapy, and finally real movement. It has evidence for CRPS.
Desensitisation, gradually exposing the limb to different textures and touch, reduces sensitivity. Gradual loading and functional tasks follow. Pain education helps people understand what's happening. Medical management of pain is often needed alongside.
Exercises often used for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
These are exercises our physiotherapists commonly include. Which ones suit you, how many and in what order depends on your assessment and stage of recovery.
Medical note
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Treatment is planned after an in-person assessment by a physiotherapist, and we refer you to a doctor where symptoms need medical review first. If you have sudden weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain or severe unexplained pain, seek emergency care.
Frequently asked questions
Is CRPS permanent?
Should I rest the painful limb?
What is mirror therapy?
What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is severe, persistent pain in a limb, often after an injury, out of proportion to the original damage.
What causes Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Common causes include abnormal nerve and immune responses after injury or surgery.
What are the common symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Common symptoms include burning pain, swelling, colour and temperature changes and sensitivity to touch.
How is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome diagnosed?
It is usually diagnosed with clinical diagnosis using established criteria.
Can physiotherapy help with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Yes. Graded exposure, movement and desensitisation are central to treatment. Our neuro physiotherapy programme is built around this.
What are the goals of physiotherapy for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
To reduce pain sensitivity, restore movement and use of the limb.
What treatments may be used for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Treatment centres on a tailored exercise programme, supported by TENS therapy and hands-on treatment where they help.
Related treatments
Neuro Physiotherapy
Recovery of movement, balance and independence after stroke and nerve injury.
Learn more TherapyTENS Therapy
Portable electrical nerve stimulation for pain relief. Can be used at home once you know how.
Learn more RheumatologyRheumatoid Arthritis
Inflammatory joint disease in hands, wrists and feet. Joint protection, exercise and managing flares.
Learn moreReady to feel better?
Book an assessment at our Indirapuram clinic or ask for a home visit. Call +91-9999973681 or send a WhatsApp message and we will confirm your slot.