After an injury, including minor injuries, individuals may experience pain and disability far greater than what is caused by the injury itself. This is a phenomenon known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), more commonly referred to as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

The condition is rare, yet for those affected, the pain may be debilitating, negatively impacting one’s ability to lead a normal, healthy life. For those struggling with CRPS via an injury received through the actions, inaction, or neglect of others, there may be hope.

A personal injury attorney with experience in representing victims of CRPS may be able to secure significant financial compensation, helping those individuals recover some of what is lost to them.

What is CRPS?

Recognized by medical professionals since the time of the U.S. Civil War, and formerly known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a progressive disease of the autonomic nervous system, particularly as it affects the sympathetic nervous system.

This system controls and directs involuntary “fight or flight” responses as well as helping the body respond to pain signals. In those diagnosed with CRPS, the pain experienced as a result of injury is out of proportion to the injury itself.

Symptoms of CRPS include:

• Intense pain, which is constant and of a burning sensation.
• Inflammation, swelling, and redness of the affected area(s).
• Sensitivity to touch, temperature and/or vibration.
• Muscular spasms, particularly in the arms and legs.
• Emotional disturbances and difficulty sleeping.
• Abnormalities in hair and nail growth.
• Loss of mobility. 

Doctors recognize two distinct types of CRPS. CRPS Type 1 is commonly associated with minor injuries to nerves, simple traumas, bone fractures, or surgical intervention. Even minor procedures like routine injections can trigger this type. CRPS Type 2 is diagnosed in patients with definable and distinct major nerve injuries, such as from trauma, surgeries, or other severe injuries. 

CRPS sufferers may experience discomfort that is some of the highest on common pain scales like the McGill Pain Index. As the disease progresses, pain levels may fluctuate and many other symptoms may appear, particularly if the person experiences extreme stress or anxiety. 

How is CRPS Treated?

Once CRPS is diagnosed in an individual, such as after experiencing an injury or trauma, medical professionals have several options for treatment. Treatments include:

• Drug therapies, including both anti-inflammatory medications as well as pain-relieving medicines
• Nerve block injections
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)
• Stimulation of spinal column using an implanted spinal column stimulator (SCS) device

Individuals struggling with the pain and inflammation associated with complex regional pain syndrome may face worsening conditions over time and in circumstances where they are exposed to high-stress levels or anxiety. As a result, these individuals may require long-term care and rehabilitation and may become temporarily or permanently disabled.

Because this syndrome has so many potential symptoms and not all are well-understood by doctors, the available therapies may or may not provide lasting relief. 

Can a CRPS Lawyer Help Me?

The Law Offices of Ronemus & Vilensky, LLP have helped injury victims recover millions of dollars in damages and settlements. As the premier personal injury attorneys in New York City, the firm has decades of experience in providing legal representation and guidance for injury victims, including those who have been diagnosed with CRPS/RSD. Injury victims may be entitled to financial compensation to help cover:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Mental distress
• Lost wages
• Lost earning potential
• Long-term care and rehabilitation

One client of the firm was injured through no fault of her own; negligence on the part of her employer led to her injury. After injuring her ankle and seeking medical attention, the pain she experienced progressively got worse. She was diagnosed with CRPS, and her condition was ultimately determined to be permanent. She is no longer able to work and has difficulties leading a normal life. With the assistance of Ronemus & Vilensky, she sued her employer; during the trial, the case settled for $1.75 million.

Contact a Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) Legal Professional Today

If you or a loved one has been injured through no fault of your own, you have specific legal rights. Developing CRPS is a rare, yet severe, consequence of being injured. Those diagnosed with this condition may wish to file a legal claim against those responsible for producing the injury or allowing unsafe conditions to exist that led to the injury.

Call Ronemus & Vilensky today at (212) 779-7070 for a free consultation. We will review the circumstances of your injury and determine if you have a case. We work hard to preserve your rights and to secure the financial compensation you deserve for your injury. Ronemus & Vilensky is rated in the top 100 Personal Injury in New York City and has earned the title of Super Lawyers for 13 years running.