Causalgia, also known as CRPS type 2, is a rare condition that causes constant pain and burning in the arms or legs, often accompanied by sweating and discoloration. Trauma to the limb is usually the underlying cause, and treatment options include physical therapy, pain-blocking medications, and electrical nerve stimulation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for successful management.
Also known as complex regional pain syndrome type 2 or CRPS, causalgia is a rare condition in which the arms or legs feel a constant sense of pain or burning. The condition is often accompanied by sweating, discoloration of the area experiencing the burning or itching, and a high degree of sensitivity. This pain can get worse over time and is easier to treat if diagnosed and addressed in the early stages.
In addition to pain and discoloration, the causality can also manifest many other symptoms. There is a noticeable change in the growth rate of nails and hair. The joints in the infected limb are likely to become stiff or begin to function improperly. In addition to becoming sensitive to touch, the temperature of the affected limb may rise similar to a localized fever.
There are a number of factors that can lead to the development of CRPS. Trauma to the limb is usually the underlying cause. Trauma can occur from an injury sustained in an accident or a gunshot wound, for example. Other problems can also trigger the condition, such as an infection, broken bones in the limb, or even something as simple as a sprained wrist or ankle. At present, there is no consensus among healthcare professionals as to why causality may be triggered in some cases but not appear in others.
Treatment of causalgia will often depend on the type of symptoms and how severe they are. Applying hot and cold packs to the lower or upper extremity can sometimes help relieve the itching and warm sensation. Topical creams that contain pain relievers can sometimes help minimize pain and help stiff joints become more flexible. Hot baths can also be effective for minor cases of the condition.
With more advanced cases, treating the causal syndrome will involve the use of physical therapy to help relieve joint stiffness and improve range of motion. Your doctor may also prescribe pain-blocking medications. A procedure known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation can sometimes be used to send electrical impulses through the nerves and relieve swelling and pain. There is also a procedure that involves inserting electrodes along the spine; the electrodes can be used to deliver a small shock of current that helps relax stiff muscles and relieve nerve pain.
When diagnosed early, causality can often be managed with great success. There is also a greater chance of remission if the condition is treated soon after it develops. However, cases where the health problem is not diagnosed until the symptoms have progressed can result in more or less permanent damage.
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