People with complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) — also called reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) — have ongoing burning or throbbing pain in the arms, legs, hands, or feet.
Pain usually starts after an injury or surgery. Emotional stress may play a part too. It’s not clear why some people get CRPS. But it’s probably due to a combination of problems in the nervous system and immune system, and a person’s genes.
Besides pain, other CRPS symptoms can include:
Physical therapy and occupational therapy, counseling, and medicines can help people with CRPS get better. Most kids and teens with CRPS recover over time.
Students with CRPS may:
Students with CRPS might miss class time and school days due to physical and emotional distress and medical appointments. They should get extra time to do their assignments.
Encourage your student with CRPS to be involved in school and extracurricular activities, and to stay connected with classmates. While exercise can improve symptoms, students might need extra support during gym class and to limit their activity due to pain.
Ask before touching your student with CRPS — even a pat on the shoulder could cause pain. Students with CRPS also might be sensitive to loud noise, so check before having your student sit near loudspeakers, intercoms, and school bells.
If your student is sensitive to cold temperatures, check their IEP or 504 plan before sending the student outside for recess.
Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
Date Reviewed: Oct 10, 2020
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