Complex Regional Pain

To treat the symptoms of CRPS, doctors use a variety of drugs.

• Nonprescription pain medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and other brands), and naproxen sodium (Aleve) can reduce minor pain and inflammation.

• If over-the-counter medications don’t work, your doctor can recommend stronger ones. Opioid drugs could be a possibility. When used sparingly, they may aid with pain management.

• Convulsants and antidepressants. Neuropathic pain, which results from injury to a nerve, can occasionally be treated with antidepressants like amitriptyline and anticonvulsants like gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin).

• Prednisone is one example of a steroid medicine that might lessen inflammation and increase range of motion in an injured limb.
  drugs that cause bone loss. Medication to stop or prevent bone loss, such as calcitonin (Miacalcin) and alendronate (Binosto, Fosamax), may be recommended by your physician.

• Medicine that blocks the sympathetic nerve. Some people may have pain relief after an injection of an anesthetic that blocks pain fibers in the afflicted nerves.

• IV ketamine administration. According to certain research, intravenous ketamine, a potent anesthetic, administered in small amounts can significantly reduce pain.

• Drugs that decrease blood pressure. Certain high blood pressure drugs, such as clonidine, phenoxybenzamine (Dibenzyline), and prazosin (Minipress), can occasionally aid in pain management.

• Thermal treatment. On skin that feels chilly, applying heat may help reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Topical painkillers. There are a number of topical medications that can lessen hypersensitivity, like over-the-counter capsaicin cream and lidocaine cream or patches (Lidoderm, ZTlido, etc.).

• Either occupational or physical therapy. Modifying regular activities or engaging in gentle, guided exercise of the affected limbs may help reduce pain and enhance strength and range of motion. Exercises may be more beneficial the earlier the condition is diagnosed.

• Mirroring oneself. A mirror is used in this kind of therapy to deceive the brain. You move the healthy limb while seated in front of a mirror or mirror box to trick the brain into thinking it is the CRPS-affected limb. Studies indicate that this kind of treatment may help CRPS sufferers feel less pain and have better function.

• TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Occasionally, stimulating nerve terminals with electrical impulses can reduce chronic pain.
  In certain situations, mastering biofeedback methods could be beneficial. Through biofeedback, you can learn to become more conscious of your body in order to reduce tension and ease discomfort.

• Stimulation of the spinal cord. Your spinal cord is punctured with tiny electrodes by your provider. Pain is reduced when a little electrical current is applied to the spinal cord.

• Pumps for intrathecal drugs. Painkilling drugs are injected into the spinal cord fluid during this procedure.

• Chinese medicine. Long, thin needles inserted into the body may stimulate muscles, connective tissue, and nerves to improve blood flow and reduce discomfort.