G90.52

Clinical Causes: Recent limb injury or trauma such as fractures, sprains, or surgical procedures Minimal or seemingly minor injuries that trigger abnormal nerve responses Immobilization of the limb after injury or surgery Infections or circulatory problems that affect nerve function Unknown factors where no clear injury or trigger can be identified

Key Symptoms: Severe, burning pain that’s disproportionate to the initial injury Swelling and edema in the affected limb Skin changes including color shifts (red, pale, or bluish hue) Temperature fluctuations in the limb, feeling either warmer or cooler Skin hypersensitivity or allodynia, where light touch causes pain Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations Decreased motion or stiffness in the joint Muscle weakness and atrophy over time Changes in hair and nail growth patterns

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis of CRPS I involves a comprehensive clinical assessment. Physicians primarily rely on the patient’s history and characteristic symptoms. There are no specific laboratory tests for CRPS I, but diagnostic procedures can help exclude other conditions. These may include blood tests, X-rays, bone scans, MRI, or thermography to observe changes in blood flow, bone density, or nerve activity. The Budapest Criteria are often used as a clinical tool to support the diagnosis, focusing on persistent pain along with sensory, vasomotor, sudomotor, or motor/trophic symptoms.

Treatment Protocols: Pain management with medications such as anticonvulsants, antidepressants, corticosteroids, or topical agents Physical therapy to maintain flexibility, strength, and function of the affected limb Desensitization and graded motor imagery techniques Nerve blocks or sympathetic nerve interventions in selected cases Psychological support or counseling to help cope with chronic pain Complementary therapies such as massage, acupuncture, or biofeedback In some situations, surgical procedures might be considered if conservative treatments are ineffective