What is the course of CRPS?

Although Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can have different courses, there usually are many similarities between patients. The most common example is that of a patient who, after suffering an injury to the arm or leg, develops symptoms that resemble a severe infection of the limb. The tissue surrounding the damage is swollen, red, hot (or cold) and most of all painful. Over time pain often increases. The arm or leg that is affected becomes stiff and sensitivity might decrease.

This may lead to functional loss in the affected limb. The course following this stage differs from patient to patient. Some have little complaints and recover quickly and completely. With others however the process is more aggressive with in the end only limited recovery. Some people even have to face serious and irreversible disabilities.