Chiropractic Care for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that usually develops after an injury, surgery, fracture, or other trauma to an arm or leg. While the original injury may heal, the nervous system can continue sending pain signals long after the tissues have recovered.

People with CRPS often experience pain that seems much greater than would normally be expected from the original injury. Along with pain, changes in skin temperature, color, swelling, movement, and sensitivity can make everyday activities difficult.

CRPS is considered a disorder of the nervous system, which is why treatment often focuses on improving nervous system function—not just treating the painful area.

There are two forms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

CRPS Type I develops after an injury without a confirmed nerve injury. It is the most common form of CRPS.

CRPS Type II occurs after a specific nerve has been injured or damaged.

Although the causes are slightly different, both types can produce very similar symptoms, including severe pain, swelling, sensitivity to touch, stiffness, and difficulty using the affected limb.

At Apex, our focus is understanding how your nervous system is functioning today so we can develop the most appropriate care plan for your individual needs.

Normally, pain decreases as an injury heals. With CRPS, the nervous system doesn’t always “reset” the way it should.

After an injury or surgery, the nerves send pain signals to help protect the body during healing. For reasons that aren’t fully understood, those pain signals can continue even after the tissues have recovered.

This ongoing pain isn’t “all in your head,” and it doesn’t mean the injury is still getting worse. Instead, it reflects changes in how the nervous system is processing and responding to pain.

Think of your nervous system like your body’s alarm system.

When you’re injured, the alarm turns on to protect the injured area while it heals. Normally, once healing is complete, the alarm gradually quiets down.

With CRPS, the alarm can stay turned up much higher than necessary.
As a result, everyday sensations—such as light touch, gentle movement, or even changes in temperature—may feel painful because the nervous system has become overly sensitive.

The encouraging news is that the nervous system can adapt and change over time. That’s why many treatment approaches for CRPS focus on helping calm the nervous system, improve movement, and support healthier communication between the brain and body.

Treatment is individualized and progresses at a pace the patient can tolerate.

Living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome can be frustrating and isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team takes the time to understand your unique symptoms, evaluate how your nervous system is functioning, and develop a personalized plan focused on improving movement, function, and quality of life.