CRPS is a pain condition that develops following an injury (trauma) or an operation.

In CRPS, the body reacts differently than expected during recovery. The pain persists or worsens, whilst the original injury heals. Changes may also occur in sensation, temperature, colour and movement.

It is not always clear why one person develops CRPS whilst another does not. Changes in pain processing, blood flow and the nervous system’s response are likely to play a role.

Post-traumatic dystrophy or CRPS usually develops following an event from which the body needs to recover. For example, following:

a broken bone;
a sprain;
an operation;
a bruise;
another injury to the foot or ankle.

Symptoms vary from person to person. It is often noticeable that the pain is more severe or lasts longer than expected.

You may, for example, notice that:

the pain feels burning or stinging;
is particularly sensitive to touch or pressure;
whether the foot or ankle feels swollen, warm or, conversely, cold;
the skin turns red, blue or pale;
finding it harder to move;
changes to nails, skin or hair growth;
you are less likely to put weight on your foot.

With CRPS, it is important to seek guidance from your GP or treating doctor. A healthy lifestyle cannot simply resolve the symptoms, but it can support recovery, boost energy levels and help you cope with the demands of daily life.

If possible, keep moving gently within your capabilities. Alternate activity with sufficient rest and spread your activities throughout the day. Getting enough sleep, relaxation and looking after your general health can help you cope better with pain and physical strain.

Our occupational therapists en hand therapists can help you find solutions when problems with your hand, wrist or arm affect your day-to-day functioning. Among other things, they assess your range of motion, strength, pain levels and how you use your hand during everyday activities. Our lifestyle coaches can support you with changes that suit your situation. If pain or uncertainty is affecting how you feel or your confidence in moving, our psychologists provide support.

If you suspect you have CRPS, it is important to contact your GP or treating doctor.

In the meantime, you can:

discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider;
keep moving gently within your capabilities;
reduce pressure and friction on the foot;
take good care of and protect your skin;
spread activities throughout the day;
Ask for help if your symptoms are affecting your daily life.

Our podiatrists can help identify situations where foot position, pressure distribution or footwear place extra strain on the feet.

Treatment may consist of:

advice on shoes;
support for pressure distribution;
support with standing and walking;
coordination with a GP, physiotherapist, rehabilitation specialist or other healthcare provider.

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Post-traumatic dystrophy (Sudeck’s dystrophy)

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