Yes, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Can Cause Abdominal Pain

28 Apr Yes, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Can Cause Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is among the many types of pain we see here at Lone Star Pain Medicine. It can be caused by a long list of things, one of them being complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Fortunately, CRPS is very treatable.

Lone Star doctors would be more than happy to consult with you on CRPS and its impact on your life. We specialize in alleviating chronic pain so that our patients can take their lives back. Consider making an appointment at our Weatherford, TX clinic. In the meantime, let us discuss CRPS and its relationship to abdominal pain.

The Basics of CRPS

Complex regional pain syndrome is as complicated as the name suggests. While we have learned a lot about it over the last 5-10 years, it is still a largely misunderstood condition. It manifests itself primarily as chronic pain in the limbs – usually experienced after some sort of injury or trauma. However, CRPS can also present with systemic complications. They include abdominal symptoms.

The general symptoms of CRPS are as follows:

• Excessive Pain – The most common symptom is excessive or severe pain, often described as a throbbing or stabbing sensation. The pain is disproportionate to whatever injury or trauma superseded it.
• Sensory Changes – CRPS patients tend to exhibit changes in how they feel and experience pain. A heightened sensitivity to pain and feeling pain from otherwise non-painful stimuli are common.
• Skin Anomalies – Patients often notice anomalies in the skin. Higher skin temperature, excessive sweating, swelling, and changes in color are not abnormal.
• Motor Issues – CRPS is sometimes associated with muscle spasms and stiffness. Tremors and reduced mobility are additional concerns.

Some patients with CRPS even experience abnormal hair and nail growth, thinning skin, and muscle atrophy. Unfortunately, we don’t know exactly why most of these symptoms present with CRPS. We are not positively sure why the condition is linked to abdominal pain, either. But it is.

CRPS and Abdominal Pain

CRPS is sometimes associated with abdominal symptoms, including pain. When abdominal pain is experienced, it could be the result of a condition known as chest wall dystonia. This is essentially muscle spasms capable of creating significant discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Two other things to consider are:

1. Gastrointestinal Issues

CRPS can be associated with constipation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Constipation and diarrhea can both lead to abdominal pain. In addition, gastroparesis can be another symptom of the condition. It can cause bloating and indigestion.

It is believed that malfunctioning autonomic nerves could be the culprit behind some gastrointestinal issues in CRPS patients. However, it’s likely not the only thing in play.

2. Autonomic Dysregulation

Because CRPS typically involves the sympathetic nervous system, it can contribute to nervous system hyperactivity. This could lead to vascular and visceral dysfunction. In simple English, the dysfunction can interrupt normal blood flow, which ultimately contributes to abdominal cramps and diarrhea.

Pain Relief Is Possible

There is still plenty about CRPS that we do not know. As researchers continue looking into the syndrome, its causes, and potential cures, patients should know that pain relief is possible. CRPS doesn’t have to overwhelm a patient’s life.

Some treatments we utilize here at Lone Star include caudal steroid injections, celiac plexus blocks, cervical epidural steroid injections, lumbar sympathetic blocks, stellate ganglion blocks, and spinal cord stimulation.

If you are experiencing abdominal pain because of CRPS, consider visiting Lone Star Pain Medicine. Our pain medicine doctors are very familiar with the syndrome and how to treat it. Perhaps we can relieve your pain and help you take your life back.