This is what I have.... And I hate it...

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain syndrome with two forms. CRPS 1 currently replaces the term "reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome". It is a chronic nerve disorder that occurs most often in the arms or legs after a minor or major injury.

CRPS 1 is associated with severe pain; changes in the nails, bone, and skin; and an increased sensitivity to touch in the affected limb. CRPS 2 replaces the term causalgia, and results from an identified injury to the nerve.


Alternative Names
CRPS; RSDS; Causalgia; Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome; Sudeck's atrophy; Shoulder-hand syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors
CRPS often develops after an injury or infection that has occurred in an arm or leg. It can also occur after heart attacks and strokes. However, the condition can sometimes appear without obvious injury to the affected limb.

The cause of CRPS is not completely understood. It is thought to result from damage to the nervous system, including the nerves that control the blood vessels and sweat glands.

The damaged nerves are no longer able to properly control blood flow, sensation, and temperature to the affected area. This leads to medical problems in the nerves, blood vessels, skin, bones, and muscles.

This condition is more common in people between the ages of 40-60, but has been seen in younger people too.


Prevention
There is no known prevention at this time, but early treatment is key to limiting the progression of the disease.

Symptoms
In most cases CRPS has 3 stages. Often, however, CRPS does not follow this progression. Some people go into the later stages almost immediately. Others remain in Stage 1 indefinitely.

Stage 1 (lasts 1-3 months)
Severe burning, aching pain increasing with the slightest touch or breeze
Swelling with warmth or coolness
Skin becomes dry and thin, changes color
Increased nail and hair growth
Pain may move further up or down the affected limb

Stage 2 (lasts 3-6 months)
Swelling spreads
Noticeable changes in skin texture and color
Decreased hair growth
Changes in bone seen in X-rays
Stiff muscles and joints

Stage 3 (irreversible changes become evident)
Pain may exist in the entire limb
Permanent tissue changes
Muscle wasting
Limited mobility in limb
Contractions involving muscles and tendons

Signs and tests
Diagnosing CRPS can be difficult, but early diagnosis is very important. Often, the symptoms are severe compared to the original trauma or injury.

It is possible to make a diagnosis based on a medical history and physical examination. The key complaint is the severe, burning pain. Additional tests may include X-rays, bone scans, nerve conduction studies, and thermography (a test to show temperature changes and lack of blood supply in the painful area of the affected limb).