CRPS study could help those affected
A CRPS study is underway at select centers across the U.S. and other regions.
Doctors at the centers are currently seeking participants for a clinical study aimed at improving Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) symptoms in patients.
Participants will be asked to take an oral medication that may improve symptoms of CRPS.People who suspect they may have CRPS or those who have been diagnosed within the past six months may qualify to participate in the study.
What is CRPS?
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic condition that usually affects one limb, typically an arm, hand, leg, or foot, following an injury. CRPS is believed to be caused by damage to the peripheral and or central nervous systems. It is characterized by prolonged or excessive pain along with other changes in the limb such as swelling and temperature.
There are two types of CRPS-I and type-II.
CRPS Type I: People don’t have confirmed nerve damage, and people who do are diagnosed with CRPS-II.
CRPS symptoms can vary in severity. Sometimes mild CRPS eventually heals and goes away. In more severe cases, people may not recover and it’s classified as a long-term disability.
Who does CRPS affect?
CRPS can occur in anyone at any age, but it peaks at age 40. It is more common in women, and rare in the elderly and young children.
What are the symptoms of CRPS?
- Prolonged severe pain that may be constant is the main symptom of CRPS
- Burning
- Pins and needles
- Pain that travels to other areas of the limb or body
- Sensitivity
- Swelling
- Changes in skin temperature
- Blue, purple, blotchy, pale, or red skin in the affected area
- Changes in the skin texture making it shiny or thin
- Joint stiffness
- Loss of range of motion
- Abnormal movements in the limb such as jerking or tremors
- Muscle coordination problems
What causes CRPS?
Doctors and scientists aren’t sure why some people develop CRPS while others do not. It is confirmed that in more than 90 percent of CRPS cases, it’s triggered by trauma to the limb(s) such as a break, sprain, burn, or tissue/tendon injury. CRPS represents an abnormal response that exemplifies the symptoms of the injury. Small fibers in the nerves communicate with blood vessels, so injuries to the fibers may trigger different symptoms.
CRPS can also affect the immune system releasing high levels of inflammatory chemicals. It’s been suggested that CRPS could be genetic.
You may be eligible to participate in the study if your …
- Pain is in your arm, wrist, hand, leg ankle, or foot
- Pain is linked to an injury or trauma
- And if you’re able to attend required visits to a study center for a period of six to seven months
Should you qualify and choose to join the study, you will receive all study-related care at no cost. This includes medications and any visits associated with the study. You may also be compensated for your time and travel to attend study visits.
