An Osteopathic Approach to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Abstract

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic neuropathic pain condition in a region of the body where the pain experienced by the patient is disproportionate to the stimuli preceding the pain. In this case, a 52-year-old post-menopausal woman presents with chronic distal limb pain due to a left ankle contusion from a work injury. Previous treatments that focused on specific symptoms failed. However, the patient was then evaluated and treated comprehensively by an osteopathic physician. Treatment was tailored to individual patient needs based on the five models of osteopathic care. Within a 1.5 years period of integrative osteopathic treatment that utilized osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) in addition to medications and supplements, the patient was able to start walking again with only mild discomfort. This individualized approach seemed to improve her quality of life, and overall satisfaction with her health, psyche, and well-being. The patient is now discharged from the practice, has resumed normal daily activities, and is working full-time as a cashier.