Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
Specialised care for a complex pain condition—because early, expert support matters
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a rare but serious pain condition that usually affects a limb—such as a hand, arm, foot, or leg—after an injury or surgery. What makes CRPS different is that the pain is out of proportion to the original injury, often lasting long after the tissues have healed, and may be accompanied by changes in colour, temperature, swelling, or sensitivity.
At Wellspring Pain Clinic, we understand that CRPS is not just a physical pain, but one that can deeply impact your movement, mood, and quality of life. We offer early, holistic, and evidence-based treatment focused on restoring function, reducing pain, and helping you move forward—without long-term reliance on medications.
Early recognition and treatment are key—the earlier CRPS is treated, the better the outcomes.
How We Manage CRPS at Wellspring Pain Clinic
Our team uses a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to treat CRPS—aimed at reducing pain, restoring movement, and re-training the nervous system.
Early Diagnosis and Education
Timely diagnosis is crucial. We take your history seriously and assess clinical signs carefully. Understanding CRPS helps reduce fear and anxiety—both of which worsen nerve sensitivity.
Physiotherapy and Desensitisation Therapy
Gentle, regular movement is one of the most effective treatments for CRPS. We collaborate closely with pain-trained physiotherapists and occupational therapists to:
- Restore joint mobility and function
- Improve circulation and muscle strength
- Re-train normal sensory signals (graded desensitisation)
- Prevent "learned non-use" of the affected limb
Psychology and Pain Coping Skills
Chronic pain can affect your mood, sleep, and ability to cope. Working with a pain psychologist helps:
- Address fear of movement (kinesiophobia)
- Reduce pain-related anxiety and catastrophising
- Build confidence and resilience
- Support emotional adjustment and sleep hygiene
Interventional Treatments (when appropriate)
Some patients may benefit from procedures that help reset pain signalling pathways:
- Sympathetic nerve blocks – such as lumbar sympathetic block
- Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) – for calming overactive nerves
- Ketamine infusions – for selected patients with severe neuropathic pain
- Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) – for persistent, treatment-resistant CRPS
Reducing Reliance on Medication
Many people with CRPS are placed on combinations of medications such as opioids, nerve agents (e.g., pregabalin, amitriptyline), or antidepressants. While these may help in the short term, they are not a cure and can lead to:
- Sedation or brain fog
- Tolerance or dependency
- Loss of motivation for rehabilitation
Our aim is to support medication reduction, where safe and possible, by building a program focused on movement, mindset, and meaningful recovery.
You're Not Imagining It—But You're Not Alone
CRPS is real, complex, and challenging—but with the right care, recovery is possible. Many people improve significantly when supported early by a team that understands the condition. At Wellspring Pain Clinic, we combine science, compassion, and collaboration to guide you toward lasting relief and restored function.
Book a consultation with Wellspring Pain Clinic today