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Regional Pain Syndrome (regional + pain_syndrome)
Kinds of Regional Pain Syndrome Terms modified by Regional Pain Syndrome Selected AbstractsUNRAVELLING THE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF COMPLEX REGIONAL PAIN SYNDROME: FOCUS ON SYMPATHETICALLY MAINTAINED PAINCLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PHARMACOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY, Issue 7 2008Gael F Gibbs SUMMARY 1In diseases such as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), where neuropathic pain is the primary concern, traditional pain classifications and lesion descriptors are of limited value. To obtain better treatment outcomes for patients, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of neuropathic pain need to be elucidated and analysed so that therapeutic targets can be identified and specific treatments developed. 2In the present review, we examine the current literature on sympathetically maintained pain (SMP), a subset of neuropathic pain, within the context of CRPS. Evidence from both human and animal studies is presented and discussed in terms of its support for the existence of SMP and the mechanistic information it provides. 3We discuss three current hypotheses that propose both a site and method for sympathetic,sensory coupling: (i) direct coupling between sympathetic and sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglion; (ii) chemical coupling between sympathetic and nociceptive neuron terminals in skin; and (iii) the development of a-adrenoceptor-mediated supersensitivity in nociceptive fibres in skin in association with the release of inflammatory mediators. 4Finally, we propose a new hypothesis that integrates the mechanisms of chemical coupling and a-adrenoceptor-mediated supersensitivity. This hypothesis is based on previously unpublished data from our laboratory showing that a histological substrate suitable for sympathetic,sensory coupling exists in normal subjects. In the diseased state, the nociceptive fibres implicated in this substrate may be activated by both endogenous and exogenous noradrenaline. The mediating a-adrenoceptors may be expressed on the nociceptive fibres or on closely associated support cells. [source] Suspected Complex Regional Pain Syndrome in 2 HorsesJOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 4 2006Niamh M. Collins First page of article [source] What Does the Mechanism of Spinal Cord Stimulation Tell Us about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 8 2010Joshua P. Prager MD Abstract Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) can have dramatic effects on painful, vascular, and motor symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), but its precise mechanism of action is unclear. Better understanding of the physiologic effects of SCS may improve understanding not only of this treatment modality but also of CRPS pathophysiology. Effects of SCS on pain perception are likely to occur through activation of inhibitory GABA-ergic and cholinergic spinal interneurons. Increased release of both neurotransmitters has been demonstrated following SCS in animal models of neuropathic pain, with accompanying reductions in pain behaviors. Effects of SCS on vascular symptoms of CRPS are thought to occur through two main mechanisms: antidromic activation of spinal afferent neurons and inhibition of sympathetic efferents. Cutaneous vasodilation following SCS in animal models has been shown to involve antidromic release of calcitonin gene-related peptide and possibly nitric oxide, from small-diameter sensory neurons expressing the transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1) receptor. The involvement of sympathetic efferents in the effects of SCS has not been studied in animal models of neuropathic pain, but has been demonstrated in models of angina pectoris. In conclusion, SCS is of clinical benefit in CRPS, and although its mechanism of action merits further elucidation, what little we do know is informative and can partially explain some of the pathophysiology of CRPS. [source] Nonimmersive Virtual Reality Mirror Visual Feedback Therapy and Its Application for the Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: An Open-Label Pilot StudyPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 4 2010Kenji Sato MD Abstract Objective., Chronic pain conditions such as phantom limb pain and complex regional pain syndrome are difficult to treat, and traditional pharmacological treatment and invasive neural block are not always effective. Plasticity in the central nervous system occurs in these conditions and may be associated with pain. Mirror visual feedback therapy aims to restore normal cortical organization and is applied in the treatment of chronic pain conditions. However, not all patients benefit from this treatment. Virtual reality technology is increasingly attracting attention for medical application, including as an analgesic modality. An advanced mirror visual feedback system with virtual reality technology may have increased analgesic efficacy and benefit a wider patient population. In this preliminary work, we developed a virtual reality mirror visual feedback system and applied it to the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome. Design., A small open-label case series. Five patients with complex regional pain syndrome received virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy once a week for five to eight sessions on an outpatient basis. Patients were monitored for continued medication use and pain intensity. Results., Four of the five patients showed >50% reduction in pain intensity. Two of these patients ended their visits to our pain clinic after five sessions. Conclusion., Our results indicate that virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy is a promising alternative treatment for complex regional pain syndrome. Further studies are necessary before concluding that analgesia provided from virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy is the result of reversing maladaptive changes in pain perception. [source] Postdural Puncture Headache in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Retrospective Observational StudyPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 8 2009Alexander G. Munts MD ABSTRACT Objective., To describe the unusual course of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) after pump implantation for intrathecal baclofen (ITB) administration in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)-related dystonia. Design., Case series based on data collected from 1996 to 2005. Setting., Movement disorders clinic, university hospital. Patients., A total of 54 patients with CRPS-related dystonia who were treated with ITB. Results., A high incidence (76%) and prolonged course (median 18 days, range 2 days to 36 months) of PDPH was found. Radionuclide studies performed in two patients with long-lasting symptoms (12,16 months) did not reveal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. In patients without signs of CSF leakage (N = 38), epidural blood patches administered in 24 patients were effective in 54%, while ketamine infusions administered in six patients were effective in 67%. Conclusions., Our observations may suggest that other mechanisms besides intracranial hypotension play a role in the initiation and maintenance of PDPH in CRPS and stimulate new directions of research on this topic. [source] Role of Biphosphonates and Lymphatic Drainage Type Leduc in the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Shoulder,Hand Syndrome)PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 1 2009Andrea Santamato MD ABSTRACT Background., Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a clinical entity that has been termed in numerous ways in the last years. Clinically, CRPS describes an array of painful conditions that are characterized by a continuing (spontaneous and/or evoked) regional pain that is seemingly disproportionate in time or degree to the usual course of any known trauma or other lesion. The pain is regional and usually has a distal predominance of abnormal sensory, motor, sudomotor, vasomotor, and/or trophic findings. Design., Case report. Setting., University Medical Center. Patients., In this report, we described the case of a 68-year-old hemiplegic female affected by cerebrovascular accident that presented a clinical case of CRPS shoulder,hand syndrome (CRPS-SHS) at the right hand after a hemorrhagic stroke. Interventions., This report evaluated the effects of biphosphonates and lymphatic drainage type Leduc in CRPS-SHS. Outcome Measures., The pain level of the patients was measured with the visual analog scale. A scoring system for the clinical severity of CRPS-SHS, laboratory tests, and X-ray films were also performed. Results., We reported in this patient a great improvement of pain and edema of the right hand, with a significant reduction of bone demineralization. Conclusions., This combined treatment may be a viable alternative for this syndrome; however, further investigation is needed to determine its reproducibility in large case series. [source] DICHOTOMY OF CORTICAL PAIN PROCESSINGPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 2 2002Article first published online: 4 JUL 200 Jahangir Maleki, Rollin M. Gallagher, Pain Medicine and Rehabilitation Center, MCP/Hahnemann School of Medicine Introduction: Functional MRI and PET studies of cortical pain processing indicate segregated pain pathways above the thalamus. Although experimental pain may result in multiple areas of altered cortical activity, it is postulated that thalamic pain fibers known as the lateral system, projecting to sensory cortex, serve to localize pain, whereas medial pathways projecting to limbic cortex, process affective aspects of pain. Case Study: A 27 y/o female, with left upper extremity pain and severe allodynia from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Type I (CRPS I / RSD), after receiving intra-pleural bupivacaine blocks developed an ipsilateral focal-onset secondary generalized tonic clonic seizure. This was followed by one hour of post-ictal confusion. Simultaneously she developed a dense left-sided motor and sensory deficit (Todd's palsy) with a motor deficit resolving in one day whereas a sensory deficit lasted 2 days. Throughout the duration of the sensory deficit she denied any left arm pain, although she continued to report the same intensity of pain, but now localized to her epigastric region. Interestingly, despite the lack of sensory perception on the left side, palpation of her left arm resulted in increased epigastric pain and suffering. Discussion: This case indicates a bifurcation of the pain pathway between the thalamus and cortex. Due to focal seizure activity, the sensory cortex (i.e. lateral system) was transiently rendered dysfunctional, during which time the continued presence of pain and allodynia without appropriate localization likely resulted from pain conduction, from the thalamus to functional limbic structures such as Cingulum (i.e. via the medial fibre system). Conclusion: This case report strongly supports the hypothesis of medial and lateral pain conducting fibers branching at the level of thalamus with medial sub-serving the emotional aspects of pain by projection to limbic cortex, whereas lateral fibres project to sensory cortex, primarily serving a localizing function. [source] Current Understandings on Complex Regional Pain SyndromePAIN PRACTICE, Issue 2 2009Marissa De Mos MD Abstract The mechanisms underlying complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) have been increasingly studied over the past decade. Classically, this painful and disabling disorder was considered to emerge from pathology of the central nervous system. However, the involvement of additional peripheral disease mechanisms is likely, and recently these mechanisms have also attracted scientific attention. The present article provides an overview of the current understandings regarding pathology of the autonomic and somatic nervous system in CRPS, as well as the roles of neurogenic inflammation, hypoxia, and the contribution of psychological factors. Potential connections between the separate disease mechanisms will be discussed. Additionally, currently known risk factors for CRPS will be addressed. Insight into risk factors is of relevance as it facilitates early diagnosis and tailored treatment. Moreover, it may provide clues for further unraveling of the pathogenesis and etiology of CRPS. [source] Complete Recovery From Intractable Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, CRPS-Type I, Following Anesthetic Ketamine and MidazolamPAIN PRACTICE, Issue 2 2007Ralph-Thomas Kiefer MD Abstract Objective: To describe the treatment of an intractable complex regional pain syndrome I (CRPS-I) patient with anesthetic doses of ketamine supplemented with midazolam. Methods: A patient presented with a rapidly progressing contiguous spread of CRPS from a severe ligamentous wrist injury. Standard pharmacological and interventional therapy successively failed to halt the spread of CRPS from the wrist to the entire right arm. Her pain was unmanageable with all standard therapy. As a last treatment option, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit and treated on a compassionate care basis with anesthetic doses of ketamine in gradually increasing (3,5 mg/kg/h) doses in conjunction with midazolam over a period of 5 days. Results: On the second day of the ketamine and midazolam infusion, edema, and discoloration began to resolve and increased spontaneous movement was noted. On day 6, symptoms completely resolved and infusions were tapered. The patient emerged from anesthesia completely free of pain and associated CRPS signs and symptoms. The patient has maintained this complete remission from CRPS for 8 years now. Conclusions: In a patient with severe spreading and refractory CRPS, a complete and long-term remission from CRPS has been obtained utilizing ketamine and midazolam in anesthetic doses. This intensive care procedure has very serious risks but no severe complications occurred. The psychiatric side effects of ketamine were successfully managed with the concomitant use of midazolam and resolved within 1 month of treatment. This case report illustrates the effectiveness and safety of high-dose ketamine in a patient with generalized, refractory CRPS. [source] Lumbar and Thoracic Sympathetic Radiofrequency Lesioning in Complex Regional Pain SyndromePAIN PRACTICE, Issue 3 2002G. B. Racz MD First page of article [source] Epidural Infusion of Opiates and Local Anesthetics for Complex Regional Pain SyndromePAIN PRACTICE, Issue 2 2002Sami Moufawad MD CRPS-I consists of multiple signs, including autonomic dysfunction, in the form of edema, vasomotor changes, motor dysfunctions, muscle spasms, tremors and dystonia, as well as burning pain, hypersensitivity and allodynia that could present in any combination. The treatment is progressive physical therapy rehabilitation program. Multiple analgesic modalities have been used to facilitate the rehabilitation program with varying rates of success. The most successful treatment is a multi-disciplinary comprehensive approach, where initial pain control allows for physical and psychological interventions that are believed to be the basis for successful treatment.1 The pain in CRPS-I may be mediated through the sympathetic nervous system, sympathetic maintained pain (SMP) or sympathetic independent pain (SIP)2. [source] EFNS guidelines on neurostimulation therapy for neuropathic painEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 9 2007G. Cruccu Pharmacological relief of neuropathic pain is often insufficient. Electrical neurostimulation is efficacious in chronic neuropathic pain and other neurological diseases. European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) launched a Task Force to evaluate the evidence for these techniques and to produce relevant recommendations. We searched the literature from 1968 to 2006, looking for neurostimulation in neuropathic pain conditions, and classified the trials according to the EFNS scheme of evidence for therapeutic interventions. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is efficacious in failed back surgery syndrome (FBSS) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type I (level B recommendation). High-frequency transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may be better than placebo (level C) although worse than electro-acupuncture (level B). One kind of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has transient efficacy in central and peripheral neuropathic pains (level B). Motor cortex stimulation (MCS) is efficacious in central post-stroke and facial pain (level C). Deep brain stimulation (DBS) should only be performed in experienced centres. Evidence for implanted peripheral stimulations is inadequate. TENS and r-TMS are non-invasive and suitable as preliminary or add-on therapies. Further controlled trials are warranted for SCS in conditions other than failed back surgery syndrome and CRPS and for MCS and DBS in general. These chronically implanted techniques provide satisfactory pain relief in many patients, including those resistant to medication or other means. [source] Diagnostic criteria in patients with complex regional pain syndrome assessed in an out-patient clinicACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 7 2010E. A. M. VAN BODEGRAVEN HOF Background: Specific criteria have been described and accepted worldwide for diagnosing patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). Nevertheless, a clear-cut diagnosis cannot be confirmed in a number of cases. Aim: The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of the described diagnostic criteria used by several clinical disciplines. Methods: We included 195 patients who were referred to our pain clinic within a period of 1 year. Data were collected on patient characteristics, signs, symptoms, disease-related medication, and the background of the referring clinicians. Results: The Harden and Bruehl criteria were confirmed in 95 patients (49%). These patients used a higher than average number of analgesics, opiates, and anti-oxidants, and frequently received prescriptions for benzodiazepines instead of anti-depressants. The mean disease duration was 29 ± 4.6 months and the mean visual analogue score for pain was 8.1 ± 0.19. A subgroup of patients had a colder temperature in the affected extremity compared with the unaffected extremity. This subgroup showed a longer disease duration and higher visual analogue scale pain. Conclusion: The diagnostic criteria used to determine CRPS should be further improved. A large number of referred patients experienced substantial pain, without receiving adequate medication. Disease-related medication is unrelated to CRPS-specific disease activity. Knowledge of underlying mechanisms is warranted before an adequate pharmaceutical intervention can be considered. [source] Referral and treatment patterns for complex regional pain syndrome in the NetherlandsACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 6 2009M. DE MOS Background: Patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are seen and treated by a variety of physicians. The present study aims to describe referral and treatment patterns for CRPS patients in the Netherlands. Methods: Patients, who were selected (1996,2005) from an electronic general practice (GP) database (Integrated Primary Care Information Project), were invited for study participation, involving diagnosis verification (International Association for the Study of Pain criteria) and assessment of referrals and treatment through information retrieved from GP journals, patients' questionnaires, pharmacy dispensing lists and specialist letters if available. Results: One hundred and two patients were included. Sixty-one percent had presented first at the GP, while 80% subsequently consulted one or more medical specialists, most frequently an anesthetist (55% of the cases) or a specialist in rehabilitation medicine (41%). Over 90% of the patients received oral or topical pharmacotherapy, 45% received intravenous therapy, 89% received non-invasive therapy (i.e. physiotherapy) and 18% received nerve blocks. Analgesics and free radical scavengers were administered early during CRPS, while vasodilating drugs and drugs against neuropathic pain (antidepressants and anti-epileptics) were administered later on. Pharmacotherapy was usually initiated by a medical specialist. Conclusion: The Dutch treatment guidelines, issued in 2006, recommend free radical scavenger prescription (plus physiotherapy) as the initial treatment step for CRPS. Until 2005 only half of the patients received a scavenger within 3 months after disease onset, and the majority presents first at the GP, in particular GPs may be encouraged to initiate treatment with scavengers, while waiting for the results of further specialist consultation. [source] The thoracodorsal vascular tree-based combined fascial flapsMICROSURGERY, Issue 2 2009Meisei Takeishi M.D. In this study, combined fascial flaps pedicled on the thoracodorsal artery and vein were raised and used for thin coverage of dorsal surfaces of the fingers and the dorsum of hand and foot with favorable results. The combined fascial flaps consist of the serratus anterior fascia and the axillary fascia at the entrance of the latissimus dorsi. These flaps were used for reconstruction of the hand, fingers, or foot in nine patients. Reconstruction was performed for burn or burn scar contracture, after resection of malignant tumors, posttraumatic skin defects, and chronic regional pain syndrome. The sites of reconstruction were dorsal surfaces of fingers, dorsum of hand, wrist and palm, forearm, lower leg, and foot. The flaps were used in various configurations including two independent fascial flaps, two-lobed fascial flap with separate feeding vessels, and composite fascial and thoracodorsal artery perforator flap. The fascial and skin flaps survived in all nine patients, with favorable results both functionally and esthetically. Good coverage of soft tissue defects and good recovery of range of motion in resurfaced joints were achieved. There were no complications. The scars at the sites of harvest were not noticeable. The advantage of this method is that not only a single flap but flaps of a variety of configurations can be harvested for different purposes. The thoracodorsal vascular tree-based combined fascial flaps are useful for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects in the extremities. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009. [source] Myoclonus in complex regional pain syndromeMOVEMENT DISORDERS, Issue 2 2009Anthony E. Lang MD [source] What Does the Mechanism of Spinal Cord Stimulation Tell Us about Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 8 2010Joshua P. Prager MD Abstract Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) can have dramatic effects on painful, vascular, and motor symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), but its precise mechanism of action is unclear. Better understanding of the physiologic effects of SCS may improve understanding not only of this treatment modality but also of CRPS pathophysiology. Effects of SCS on pain perception are likely to occur through activation of inhibitory GABA-ergic and cholinergic spinal interneurons. Increased release of both neurotransmitters has been demonstrated following SCS in animal models of neuropathic pain, with accompanying reductions in pain behaviors. Effects of SCS on vascular symptoms of CRPS are thought to occur through two main mechanisms: antidromic activation of spinal afferent neurons and inhibition of sympathetic efferents. Cutaneous vasodilation following SCS in animal models has been shown to involve antidromic release of calcitonin gene-related peptide and possibly nitric oxide, from small-diameter sensory neurons expressing the transient receptor potential V1 (TRPV1) receptor. The involvement of sympathetic efferents in the effects of SCS has not been studied in animal models of neuropathic pain, but has been demonstrated in models of angina pectoris. In conclusion, SCS is of clinical benefit in CRPS, and although its mechanism of action merits further elucidation, what little we do know is informative and can partially explain some of the pathophysiology of CRPS. [source] Nonimmersive Virtual Reality Mirror Visual Feedback Therapy and Its Application for the Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: An Open-Label Pilot StudyPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 4 2010Kenji Sato MD Abstract Objective., Chronic pain conditions such as phantom limb pain and complex regional pain syndrome are difficult to treat, and traditional pharmacological treatment and invasive neural block are not always effective. Plasticity in the central nervous system occurs in these conditions and may be associated with pain. Mirror visual feedback therapy aims to restore normal cortical organization and is applied in the treatment of chronic pain conditions. However, not all patients benefit from this treatment. Virtual reality technology is increasingly attracting attention for medical application, including as an analgesic modality. An advanced mirror visual feedback system with virtual reality technology may have increased analgesic efficacy and benefit a wider patient population. In this preliminary work, we developed a virtual reality mirror visual feedback system and applied it to the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome. Design., A small open-label case series. Five patients with complex regional pain syndrome received virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy once a week for five to eight sessions on an outpatient basis. Patients were monitored for continued medication use and pain intensity. Results., Four of the five patients showed >50% reduction in pain intensity. Two of these patients ended their visits to our pain clinic after five sessions. Conclusion., Our results indicate that virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy is a promising alternative treatment for complex regional pain syndrome. Further studies are necessary before concluding that analgesia provided from virtual reality mirror visual feedback therapy is the result of reversing maladaptive changes in pain perception. [source] Postdural Puncture Headache in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Retrospective Observational StudyPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 8 2009Alexander G. Munts MD ABSTRACT Objective., To describe the unusual course of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) after pump implantation for intrathecal baclofen (ITB) administration in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)-related dystonia. Design., Case series based on data collected from 1996 to 2005. Setting., Movement disorders clinic, university hospital. Patients., A total of 54 patients with CRPS-related dystonia who were treated with ITB. Results., A high incidence (76%) and prolonged course (median 18 days, range 2 days to 36 months) of PDPH was found. Radionuclide studies performed in two patients with long-lasting symptoms (12,16 months) did not reveal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. In patients without signs of CSF leakage (N = 38), epidural blood patches administered in 24 patients were effective in 54%, while ketamine infusions administered in six patients were effective in 67%. Conclusions., Our observations may suggest that other mechanisms besides intracranial hypotension play a role in the initiation and maintenance of PDPH in CRPS and stimulate new directions of research on this topic. [source] Role of Biphosphonates and Lymphatic Drainage Type Leduc in the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Shoulder,Hand Syndrome)PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 1 2009Andrea Santamato MD ABSTRACT Background., Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a clinical entity that has been termed in numerous ways in the last years. Clinically, CRPS describes an array of painful conditions that are characterized by a continuing (spontaneous and/or evoked) regional pain that is seemingly disproportionate in time or degree to the usual course of any known trauma or other lesion. The pain is regional and usually has a distal predominance of abnormal sensory, motor, sudomotor, vasomotor, and/or trophic findings. Design., Case report. Setting., University Medical Center. Patients., In this report, we described the case of a 68-year-old hemiplegic female affected by cerebrovascular accident that presented a clinical case of CRPS shoulder,hand syndrome (CRPS-SHS) at the right hand after a hemorrhagic stroke. Interventions., This report evaluated the effects of biphosphonates and lymphatic drainage type Leduc in CRPS-SHS. Outcome Measures., The pain level of the patients was measured with the visual analog scale. A scoring system for the clinical severity of CRPS-SHS, laboratory tests, and X-ray films were also performed. Results., We reported in this patient a great improvement of pain and edema of the right hand, with a significant reduction of bone demineralization. Conclusions., This combined treatment may be a viable alternative for this syndrome; however, further investigation is needed to determine its reproducibility in large case series. [source] Can the Neuropathic Pain Scale Discriminate Between Non-neuropathic and Neuropathic Pain?PAIN MEDICINE, Issue 2 2008David A. Fishbain MD, FAPA ABSTRACT Objectives., 1) To determine if the neuropathic pain scale (NPS) can be used to classify chronic pain patients (CPPs) as having primarily neuropathic vs non-neuropathic pain, and furthermore; 2) to determine what, if any, cut-off score can be used to reliably make this determination. Design., A total of 305 CPPs consecutive admissions to The Rosomoff Pain Center were administered the NPS and were assigned a diagnosis according to the physical examination and all available test results. CPPs with a diagnosis of chronic radiculopathy and spondylolysis/degenerative arthritis were segregated into two groups for the purposes of having a group representative of neuropathic pain (chronic radiculopathy) and non-neuropathic pain (spondylolysis/degenerative arthritis). Applying neuropathic pain criteria to each "of these two groups": a neuropathic pain "subtype" was identified within the chronic radiculopathy group; and, a non-neuropathic pain "subtype" was identified within the spondylolysis/degenerative arthritis group. This step was performed in order to assure that the CPPs selected for further analysis were truly representative of neuropathic and non-neuropathic pain. Discriminant function analysis was then employed to determine if NPS scoring could differentiate between these two "subtypes." Results from the discriminant function analysis model were utilized to derive an NPS cut-off score above which CPPs would be classified as having neuropathic pain. For the diagnoses of myofascial pain syndromes, spinal stenosis, epidural fibrosis, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndromes 1 and 2, and failed back surgery syndrome, a predicted NPS score was calculated and compared with the cut-off score. Setting., Multidisciplinary pain facility. Patients., Chronic pain patients. Results., The NPS appeared to be able to separate CPPs into neuropathic pain vs non-neuropathic pain subtypes. The derived cut-off score from the model was 5.53. Myofascial pain syndrome and spinal stenosis had predictive scores lower than this cut-off score at 3.81 and 4.26, respectively. Epidural fibrosis, fibromyalgia, complex regional pain syndromes 1 and 2, and failed back surgery syndrome had predictive scores higher than the cut-off score at 6.15, 6.35, 6.87, 9.34, and 7.19, respectively. Conclusions., The NPS appears to be able to discriminate between neuropathic and non-neuropathic pain. A debate is currently raging as to whether diagnoses, such as fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome 1, can be classified as neuropathic. Our NPS cut-off score results suggest that these diagnoses may have a neuropathic pain component. The reliability and validity of our NPS method will need to be tested further in other neuropathic pain models, such as diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. [source] Evidence For and Against the Use of Opioid Analgesics for Chronic Nonmalignant Low Back Pain: A ReviewPAIN MEDICINE, Issue 3 2002J. D. Bartleson MD Abstract Introduction., Opioid analgesics are very effective for treating pain, but their chronic use in nonmalignant conditions is controversial. Low back pain is a common condition, and chronic low back pain (CLBP) is the most frequent regional pain syndrome in the United States. This article reviews the evidence for and against the use of chronic opioid analgesic therapy (COAT) for patients with CLBP unrelated to cancer. Methods., A literature review was conducted looking for reports of oral or transdermal opioid analgesic therapy for CLBP. Results., There are very few randomized controlled trials of COAT for CLBP. The scant evidence that is available suggests that over the short-term, COAT is helpful with patients with CLBP. In the published reports, most of which are brief in duration, COAT is associated with moderate side effects but a low risk of abuse or drug addiction. COAT was not associated with adverse long-term sequelae. Longer-acting opioid analgesics may be preferable to shorter-acting agents. Patient selection and close follow-up are critical to good outcomes. Conclusions., There is a place for the use of chronic oral or transdermal opioid analgesics in the treatment of some patients with CLBP. [source] A Severe Case of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome I (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy) Managed with Spinal Cord StimulationPAIN PRACTICE, Issue 1 2010Bernard Canlas MD Abstract Complex regional pain syndrome is a condition that usually affects the upper or lower extremities. The cause is not clearly understood. We report a case of a severe form of a rapidly progressive complex regional pain syndrome type I developing after a right shoulder injury managed with spinal cord stimulation (SCS). After failed conservative treatments, a rechargeable SCS system was implanted in the cervical spine. Allodynia and dystonia improved but the patient subsequently developed similar symptoms in lower right extremity followed by her lower left extremity. The patient became wheelchair bound. A second rechargeable SCS with a paddle electrode was implanted for the lower extremity coverage. The patient's allodynia and skin lesions improved significantly. However, over time, her initial symptoms reappeared which included skin breakdown. Due to the need for frequent recharging, the system was removed. During explantation of the surgical paddle lead, it was noted by the neurosurgeon that the contacts of the paddle lead were detached from the lead. After successful implantation of another SCS system, the patient was able to reduce her medications and is now able to ambulate with the use of a left elbow crutch. [source] MULTIDISCIPLINARY PAIN ABSTRACTS: 26PAIN PRACTICE, Issue 1 2004Article first published online: 15 MAR 200 The objective of this study was to examine the incidence, prevalence, natural history, and response to treatment of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). All Mayo Clinic and Olmsted Medical Group medical records with codes for reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), CRPS, and compatible diagnoses in the period 1989,1999 were reviewed as part of the Rochester Epidemiology Project. The authors used IASP criteria for CRPS. The study population was in the Olmsted County, Minnesota (1990 population, 106,470). The main outcome measures were CRPS-I incidence, prevalence, and outcome. Seventy-four cases of CRPS-I were identified, resulting in an incidence rate of 5.46 per 100,000 person years at risk, and a period prevalence of 20.57 per 100,000. Female: male ratio was 4 : 1, with a median age of 46 years at onset. Upper limb was affected twice as commonly as lower limb. All cases reported an antecedent event and fracture was the most common trigger (46%). Excellent concordance was found between symptoms and signs; vasomotor symptoms were the most commonly present. The authors concluded that CRPS-I is of low prevalence, more commonly affects women than men, the upper more than the lower extremity, and three out of four cases undergo resolution. These results suggest that invasive treatment of CRPS may not be warranted in the majority of cases. [source] An Updated Interdisciplinary Clinical Pathway for CRPS: Report of an Expert PanelPAIN PRACTICE, Issue 1 2002Dr. med, Michael D. Stanton-Hicks MB Abstract: The goal of treatment in patients with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is to improve function, relieve pain, and achieve remission. Current guidelines recommend interdisciplinary management, emphasizing 3 core treatment elements: pain management, rehabilitation, and psychological therapy. Although the best therapeutic regimen or the ideal progression through these modalities has not yet been established, increasing evidence suggests that some cases are refractory to conservative measures and require flexible application of the various treatments as well as earlier consideration of interventions such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS). While existing treatment guidelines have attempted to address the comprehensive management of CRPS, all fail to provide guidance for contingent management in response to a sudden change in the patient's medical status. This paper reviews the current pathophysiology as it is known, reviews the purported treatments, and provides a modified clinical pathway (guideline) that attempts to expand the scope of previous guidelines. [source] Bretylium in the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome: uncommon side-effect of a common drugANAESTHESIA, Issue 2 2003Article first published online: 23 SEP 200 No abstract is available for this article. [source] Enhancing the neurologist's role in complex regional pain syndromeANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 3 2010G. Lorimer Moseley PhD No abstract is available for this article. [source] Sympathetic block with botulinum toxin to treat complex regional pain syndrome,ANNALS OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 3 2009Ian Carroll MD Complex regional pain syndrome is a refractory pain condition with few tested therapies. We hypothesized that botulinum toxin A (BTA) would prolong analgesia after sympathetic blocks in patients with complex regional pain syndrome. We compared the duration of standard lumbar sympathetic block (LSB) with bupivacaine to LSB with bupivacaine and BTA in nine patients with refractory complex regional pain syndrome. Median time to analgesic failure was 71 (95% confidence interval, 12,253) days after LSB with BTA compared with fewer than 10 days (95% confidence interval, 0,12) after standard LSB (log-rank, p < 0.02). BTA profoundly prolonged the analgesia from sympathetic block in this preliminary study. Ann Neurol 2009;65:348,351 [source] Radial artery thrombosis, palmar arch systolic blood velocities, and chronic regional pain syndrome 1 following transradial cardiac catheterizationCATHETERIZATION AND CARDIOVASCULAR INTERVENTIONS, Issue 4 2002Thomas J. Papadimos MD Abstract The transradial approach to cardiac catheterization is popular and safe, but prolonged, aggressive hemostatic compression at the access site may lead to vascular and/or neurologic complications, either transient or permanent. Rarely, chronic regional pain syndrome 1 (reflex sympathetic dystrophy) may occur. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2002;57:537,540. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Extensive skin necrosis of the arm in a patient with complex regional pain syndromeCLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 6 2008M. Nishikawa Summary We report a 36-year-old woman with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type 1 presenting with extensive skin necrosis of the left arm. The patient cooled her arm with ice packs to ease severe pain due to CRPS, in spite of repeated cautions against frostbite injury. The regions of skin necrosis corresponded with the sites where she had applied ice packs. We considered that the severe skin necrosis in our case was due to a self-induced frostbite injury. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||