Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Diagnosis and Surgical Management

The prognosis and treatment of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are for the most part disappointing and there exists few prospective studies in this area. The overall goal of treatment is functional restoration and improved quality of life by desensitization, reactivation, flexibility and strength training, ergonomics, and functional rehabilitation. Here we present a case of a patient with a diagnosis of CRPS type I after an orthopedic procedure and subsequent surgical management of her condition. We review the assessment and management of the patient, aftercare, and complication management. We also briefly review the current literature regarding the functional outcome for the surgical management of CRPS and future directions, including DRG stimulation.