Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system and causes persistent, often severe pain, usually in a limb. It can develop after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack, but the pain is typically out of proportion to the original injury.
At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, we understand how challenging and life-altering CRPS can be. Our integrated approach, combining chiropractic and physiotherapy, aims to reduce pain, restore function, and support individuals on their path to recovery.
What Is CRPS?
CRPS, formerly known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition that typically affects an arm, leg, hand, or foot. The pain is caused by damage to or malfunction of the peripheral and central nervous systems, resulting in heightened pain sensitivity, swelling, and changes in skin color or temperature.
There are two types:
- Type I (without confirmed nerve injury) – most common
- Type II (with confirmed nerve damage) – also known as causalgia
Signs And Symptoms Of CRPS
CRPS often develops weeks after an injury or surgery. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent, burning, or throbbing pain in a limb
- Sensitivity to touch or temperature
- Swelling, stiffness, or decreased mobility
- Changes in skin temperature, color, or texture
- Abnormal hair or nail growth
- Muscle weakness or spasms
These symptoms may fluctuate or spread to other areas, and if left untreated, CRPS can lead to lasting disability.
What Causes CRPS?
While the exact cause is not fully understood, CRPS is thought to be related to:
- Nerve injury or dysfunction
- Inflammatory response to trauma
- Malfunction in pain signalling pathways
- Sympathetic nervous system dysfunction
Emotional stress and psychological factors can also play a role in intensifying symptoms.
How Chiropractic & Physiotherapy Can Help Manage CRPS
Early, multi-disciplinary intervention offers the best chance of recovery. At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, our team collaborates to create a personalised care plan focused on reducing pain and improving function.
1. Desensitisation & Sensory Re-education
- Gentle techniques to help retrain the brain and nervous system’s response to stimuli
- Tactile therapy and graded exposure exercises
2. Pain Modulation Techniques
- Chiropractic adjustments (where appropriate) to improve nerve function
- Manual therapy to ease muscular tension and joint stiffness
- Neurodynamic mobilisation to reduce nerve irritation
3. Physiotherapy-Based Rehabilitation
- Active and passive range-of-motion exercises
- Functional strengthening to prevent muscle atrophy
- Guided movement therapies to restore confidence and coordination
4. Patient Education & Support
- Teaching strategies for pain pacing, stress management, and coping
- Ergonomic advice to reduce daily strain
- Encouraging independence in managing symptoms
A Whole-Person Approach To CRPS
CRPS doesn’t just affect the body—it impacts mental health, daily activities, and quality of life.
That’s why our approach goes beyond physical symptoms. We offer a supportive, holistic environment where progress, no matter how small, is celebrated.
If needed, we work in tandem with GPs, pain specialists, and mental health professionals to ensure well-rounded care.
Don’t Let CRPS Define You — Reclaim Your Life With Us
At Isleworth Pain and Injury Clinic, we are committed to helping individuals living with Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome navigate their recovery with expertise and empathy. Our combination of chiropractic care and physiotherapy provides targeted relief and long-term strategies for pain management.
You’re not alone, and you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Contact us today to book your personalised assessment. Let us help you take the first steps toward comfort, mobility, and a better quality of life.
Schedule Your Visit!
Don’t wait to feel better. Book your consultation now and let us help you move freely and live pain free.
Phone: +44 20 3137 7198
We offer expert physiotherapy, chiropractic, and rehabilitation to relieve pain, restore movement, and support lasting recovery.
© Remedo 2025. All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Website Design by Remedo