Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Treatment Specialist in Wilkes-Barre, PA

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a challenging condition characterized by persistent, severe pain that is often described by patients as burning, stabbing, or throbbing. This pain frequently exceeds what would be expected from the original injury and may even spread beyond the initial site of trauma. Our patients with CRPS often experience heightened sensitivity to touch, known as allodynia, which can make even gentle contact uncomfortable.
 
In addition to pain, CRPS commonly causes swelling of the affected limb, along with noticeable changes in skin temperature and color—patients may see their skin become red, blue, or unusually pale. Other symptoms we carefully assess include alterations in skin texture (such as shininess or thinning), abnormal hair or nail growth, joint stiffness, decreased range of motion, muscle weakness, and sometimes excessive sweating in the affected area. These symptoms can fluctuate and may worsen with stress or activity.
 
At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we emphasize the importance of early evaluation and multidisciplinary intervention when CRPS is suspected. Prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment plans can help reduce symptom severity, improve function, and prevent long-term complications.

CRPS is a chronic pain condition typically developing after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack, and is often characterized by pain that is out of proportion to the initial event. While the exact cause of CRPS remains unclear, current research suggests it involves a combination of abnormal inflammatory responses, dysfunction in the peripheral and central nervous systems, and altered pain signaling pathways.
 
Our experienced team is well-versed in identifying and managing CRPS, recognizing that early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving patient outcomes. We pay special attention to individuals who may be at higher risk—such as those recovering from fractures, sprains, or limb surgeries, particularly women between the ages of 40 and 60, and those with a history of inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.
 
We offer a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to CRPS, combining advanced diagnostic techniques with personalized treatment plans that may include medication management, interventional procedures, physical therapy, and psychological support. Our goal is to address not only the physical pain but also the emotional and functional challenges that come with CRPS, helping our patients reclaim their quality of life.

CRPS symptoms can include intense pain, swelling, changes in skin color or temperature, and abnormal sensitivity. While CRPS is most commonly confined to a single arm or leg, our pain management team has experience treating cases where CRPS spreads to more than one limb.
 
Though less common, CRPS can extend beyond its original site, involving the limb on the opposite side of the body or even multiple extremities over time. The reasons behind this spread are not yet fully understood but may involve changes within the nervous system or persistent inflammation.
 
If you or a loved one is experiencing CRPS symptoms in more than one limb, our multidisciplinary team can provide a thorough evaluation and develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life.

If not diagnosed and managed early, CRPS can be progressive—meaning that symptoms may worsen over time.
 
Our Approach to CRPS:
In the early stages, CRPS may present as pain, swelling, redness, and heightened sensitivity in the affected area. As the condition advances, you may notice changes in skin texture and color, reduced range of motion, muscle weakness, and even abnormal hair or nail growth. Left untreated, CRPS can result in long-term complications such as persistent pain, joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and irreversible changes to bones, muscles, and skin.
 
At Comprehensive Pain Specialists, we are committed to early recognition and intervention. Our experienced team uses advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify CRPS and develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient. Our multi-modal approach may include:
 
• Medication management to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physical and occupational therapy to maintain mobility and function Interventional procedures (such as nerve blocks) to target pain at its source
• Psychological support to address the emotional impact of chronic pain
 
With timely and expert care, we can often slow or halt the progression of CRPS, improving symptoms and quality of life. Many of our patients experience significant improvement—and, in some cases, remission of symptoms—thanks to early and comprehensive treatment.
 
If you or a loved one are experiencing persistent limb pain following an injury or surgery, we encourage you to visit Comprehensive Pain Specialists. Early evaluation and intervention are crucial to preventing lasting impairment from CRPS. Let our team help you find relief and restore your quality of life. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 1177 PA-315, Dolphin Plaza, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. We serve patients from Wilkes-Barre PA, Glen Lyon PA, Dallas PA, Pittston PA, Mountain Top PA, Plymouth PA, and surrounding areas.