Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Medical Cannabis

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Symptoms

There are some common signs and symptoms of CRPS, and some people suffering from CRPS may also have trouble with their mobility due to the pain.

• Chronic pain
• Skin sensitivity
• Limb swelling
• Changes in temperate to the affected area.
• Abnormal swelling
• Changes in skin, hair, and nails in the affected area
• Local weakness

What are the 3 stages of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

There are three different clinical stages of complex regional pain syndrome.

• Stage 1 – acute, which typically lasts 1-3 months.
• Stage 2 – subacute, which usually lasts between 3-6 months.
• Stage 3 – chronic, permanent changes to the affected area.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Treatment

Treatment for complex regional pain syndrome is split into four main areas:

• Education and self-management (advice and support on how to manage the condition).
• Physical rehabilitation (improve physical functioning and help prevent the risk of long-term issues).
• Pain relief (pain medication to help reduce the pain).
• Psychological support (support to help cope with the emotional affect of living with the condition).

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Medicinal Cannabis

Research into the effect of medicinal cannabis on CRPS is limited. However, following the legalisation of cannabis for medical purposes in 2018, there has been a rise in people looking towards medical cannabis. When first-line therapies have not proved effective at reducing symptoms, medical cannabis may be considered an option for CRPS.