[오늘의 키워드] complex regional pain syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome‧CRPS) is a chronic pain disorder with severe pain, swelling, and skin changes. The affected areas are mainly the arms and legs. It can also spread to other parts of the body.
Symptoms vary from patient to patient. The color and temperature of the skin may change, swelling, or an abnormality in the shape of the nails may occur. Of course, the biggest feature of CRPS is excruciating pain. Even without external stimulation, pain like being pricked by a needle, pain like being cut by a sharp knife, or pain like squeezing appears in the arm or finger. Those who suffer from the disease say that the physical pain is beyond imagination. A few years ago, a man suffering from CRPS talked regarding euthanasia because he mightn’t stand the pain.
Risk factors that can cause complex regional pain syndrome include smoking, genetic factors, and psychological factors, but none have been clearly identified.
Unfortunately, there is still no treatment that guarantees a cure for CRPS. Several combination therapies are used. Experts say that it is good to combine medication, physical therapy, and psychological treatment, including supportive psychotherapy.
Although it is difficult to treat, it can be cured if detected early and treated aggressively. If the symptoms or signs progress slowly or are very severe, or if active treatment is not implemented due to delay in diagnosis or treatment, it becomes a chronic disease. This greatly reduces the quality of life.
