By Matt Lalande in Car Accidents, Car Accidents on April 14, 2023
Car accidents can often leave victims with life-changing injuries. In many cases, injured victims suffer chronic pain as a result of their injuries. In extreme cases, chronic pain can present as a painful and severe condition known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This debilitating condition can require extensive medical treatment and permanently interfere with your capacity to work.
If you or your loved one has been injured in a car accident it’s important that you speak to an experienced Hamilton car accident lawyer who can help you recover the compensation you need to help restart and rehabilitate your life. Lalande Personal Injury Lawyer have represented car accident victims in the Hamilton area, and all over the province of Ontario since 2003. If you or a loved one has been involved in serious car accident, contact us today, no matter where you are in Ontario by calling us at 1-844-LALANDE or local throughout southern Ontario by calling us at 905-333-8888. Alternatively, you can send us confidential email through our website or chat live with our live chat operator 7 days a week 24-hours a day. Our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers are here to help you recover justice – in a time of need.
Chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as complex regional pain syndrome, is a chronic condition characterized by severe, often debilitating pain that typically affects one limb, such as an arm, leg, hand or foot. The pain is usually disproportionate to the severity of the initial injury or trauma and may be accompanied by swelling, stiffness, and changes in skin color and temperature.
CRPS is thought to be caused by a malfunction in the nervous system, which causes the body to overreact to an injury or trauma. While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to changes in the way the nervous system processes pain signals.
There is no cure for CRPS, but treatment may include a combination of medications, physical therapy, psychotherapy, and nerve blocks. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for managing the symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening.
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that usually affects one limb after an injury or trauma. Symptoms can vary in intensity and duration but often include:
Continuous, severe, burning pain – a primary symptom of car accident related CRPS is continuous, severe, burning pain in the affected limb. This pain often feels out of proportion to the initial injury or trauma that triggered the condition. It may begin in a specific area, such as the hand or foot, but can spread to involve the entire limb or even other limbs over time. The pain associated with CRPS can be triggered or worsened by even minor stimuli, such as light touch or changes in temperature. This heightened pain response is known as allodynia. In some cases, the pain can be so severe that it interferes with daily activities, work, and sleep.
The pain may also be characterized by its persistence. While some individuals with CRPS may experience periods of pain relief, others may suffer from constant pain that does not improve with time. The unpredictable nature of CRPS pain makes it challenging to manage and treat effectively.
Swelling in the affected area – also known as edema, is another common symptom of car accident reelated CRPS. The affected limb may become swollen and appear larger than the unaffected limb. This swelling can occur due to the abnormal functioning of the blood vessels and lymphatic system in the area. In CRPS, the blood vessels may constrict and dilate inappropriately, leading to an imbalance in blood flow and fluid accumulation. The lymphatic system, responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues, may also be impaired, contributing to the swelling. Swelling can cause discomfort and further limit the range of motion in the affected joint or limb, making it difficult for the individual to use or move the limb normally. Treating the swelling can help alleviate some of the pain and discomfort associated with CRPS, and may involve therapies such as compression garments, elevation, and physical therapy.
Sensitivity to touch or cold – individuals with CRPS after a car accident often experience heightened sensitivity to touch or cold, a symptom known as allodynia. Allodynia is a condition in which normally non-painful stimuli, like light touch, contact with clothing, or exposure to cold, can cause severe pain in the affected area. This heightened sensitivity occurs due to changes in the way the nervous system processes pain signals. In CRPS, the nerves in the affected limb may become more sensitive and transmit pain signals in response to stimuli that would not usually cause pain. This can make daily activities, such as dressing or bathing, extremely challenging and uncomfortable for the individual. Allodynia can also make it difficult for individuals to tolerate physical therapy or other treatments aimed at improving their function and mobility, as even gentle touch or movement can cause significant pain. Treatment for allodynia may involve medications to help manage the pain, as well as techniques to desensitize the affected area, such as graded exposure to touch or temperature stimuli.
Changes in skin temperature (alternating between sweaty and cold) – CRPS after a car accident can cause abnormal changes in skin temperature in the affected area. The skin may alternate between feeling excessively warm and sweaty, and then suddenly become cold and clammy. This fluctuation in temperature is a result of the dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system and the blood vessels that control blood flow and regulate temperature in the affected limb. In CRPS, the blood vessels may constrict or dilate inappropriately, leading to variations in blood flow and, consequently, fluctuations in skin temperature. These temperature changes can contribute to the discomfort and pain experienced by the individual, as well as complicate the healing process. Monitoring and managing these temperature changes can be an important aspect of CRPS treatment, with interventions such as temperature-regulating garments or localized temperature therapy being used to help maintain a stable temperature in the affected area.
Changes in skin color (red, blue, or pale) – after a car accident, CRPS can cause noticeable changes in skin color in the affected limb. The skin may appear red, blue, or pale, and these color changes may fluctuate over time. These alterations in skin color are primarily due to the abnormal functioning of blood vessels in the affected area. In CRPS, blood vessels may constrict or dilate inappropriately, causing an imbalance in blood flow and oxygen supply to the tissues. As a result, the skin may appear red or flushed when blood flow is increased, or blue and pale when blood flow is decreased or restricted. These color changes can be distressing for the individual and may serve as a visible sign of the underlying vascular dysfunction associated with CRPS.
Changes in skin texture (shiny, thin, or dry) – Individuals with CRPS may experience changes in the texture of the skin in the affected area. The skin may become shiny, thin, or dry as a result of the condition. These changes in skin texture can occur due to a combination of factors, including altered blood flow, nerve dysfunction, and changes in the function of sweat glands. When blood flow and oxygen supply to the skin are disrupted, it can lead to a decrease in the overall health and integrity of the skin, making it more susceptible to damage and slower to heal. Additionally, nerve dysfunction in CRPS after a car accident can affect the function of sweat glands, causing the skin to become dry and more prone to cracking. Changes in skin texture can be uncomfortable and may further exacerbate the pain and sensitivity experienced by individuals with CRPS.
Muscle weakness or stiffness – CRPS after a car accident can lead to muscle weakness or stiffness in the affected limb, making it difficult for the individual to move or use the limb normally. This weakness or stiffness can develop as a result of several factors, including disuse, nerve dysfunction, and inflammation. Due to the severe pain and sensitivity associated with CRPS, individuals may avoid using the affected limb, which can lead to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness over time. Furthermore, nerve dysfunction in the affected area can disrupt the normal communication between nerves and muscles, impairing muscle function and contributing to weakness. Inflammation and swelling can also cause stiffness and discomfort, further limiting the range of motion in the affected limb.
Joint stiffness and reduced range of motion – Individuals with CRPS may experience joint stiffness and a reduced range of motion in the affected limb. This can occur as a result of several factors, including pain, inflammation, disuse, and muscle weakness. The severe pain and sensitivity associated with CRPS can make movement difficult, causing individuals to avoid using the affected limb, which can lead to joint stiffness over time. Inflammation in the affected area can also contribute to stiffness and discomfort, further limiting the range of motion. Additionally, muscle weakness or stiffness, as previously mentioned, can impair the normal function of the joint, making movement more challenging. Treatment for joint stiffness and reduced range of motion in CRPS may involve physical therapy, which aims to improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion, as well as medications and other therapies to manage pain and inflammation. Early intervention is crucial to prevent long-term joint damage and to maintain the function and mobility of the affected limb.
Abnormal sweating in the affected area – Individuals with CRPS after a car accident may experience abnormal sweating in the affected limb. This symptom, known as hyperhidrosis, can manifest as excessive or decreased sweating in the affected area. The abnormal sweating is due to dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating body functions such as temperature control and sweat production. In CRPS, the nerves controlling the sweat glands in the affected area may become overactive, leading to increased sweating, or underactive, resulting in decreased sweating. This abnormal sweating can contribute to the overall discomfort experienced by the individual, as well as impact skin health and integrity in the affected area.
Hair and nail growth changes – CRPS can lead to changes in hair and nail growth in the affected limb. Individuals with the condition may notice that the hair in the affected area grows faster or slower than usual, or that it becomes thinner or more brittle. Similarly, nail growth may be affected, with nails growing more slowly, becoming thicker or thinner, or appearing more brittle and prone to breaking. These changes in hair and nail growth are likely related to the alterations in blood flow and nerve function that occur in CRPS. Disruptions in blood flow can affect the supply of nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles and nail beds, leading to changes in growth patterns. Additionally, nerve dysfunction may impact the normal growth and maintenance processes for hair and nails.
Tremors or dystonia in the affected limb – Individuals with CRPS after a car accident may experience tremors or dystonia in the affected limb. Tremors are involuntary, rhythmic, oscillating movements of a body part, while dystonia is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, leading to abnormal postures or twisting motions. Both tremors and dystonia can occur as a result of the nerve dysfunction and abnormal muscle activity associated with CRPS. The affected limb may exhibit tremors during movement or while at rest, and these tremors can interfere with the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks and maintain normal function. Dystonia, on the other hand, can cause the affected limb to assume uncomfortable or distorted positions, which can be painful and further limit the range of motion and mobility. Both tremors and dystonia can have a significant impact on the individual’s quality of life and ability to carry out everyday activities.
Difficulty in coordinating muscle movement – people with car accident related CRPS may experience difficulty in coordinating muscle movement in the affected limb, which can significantly impact their daily activities and overall quality of life. This lack of coordination can be attributed to multiple factors, including pain, muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and altered nerve function. Pain and sensitivity in the affected area can make it challenging for individuals to engage in normal movements or activities that require precise control of their muscles. Additionally, muscle weakness and joint stiffness can further limit the range of motion and hinder the ability to perform coordinated movements. Altered nerve function in CRPS can also directly affect muscle coordination, as the nerves responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles may not function optimally. As a result, individuals with CRPS after a car accident may struggle with tasks that were once easy for them, such as grasping objects, writing, or walking, due to the impaired coordination of their affected limb.
Atrophy of muscles and bones in the affected area – in CRPS, atrophy of muscles and bones in the affected area can occur as a result of disuse, pain, and alterations in blood flow and nerve function. Muscle atrophy refers to the loss of muscle mass and strength, while bone atrophy refers to the decrease in bone density and strength. Due to the chronic pain and sensitivity experienced by individuals with CRPS, they may avoid using or moving the affected limb, which can lead to disuse and ultimately contribute to muscle and bone atrophy. Additionally, altered blood flow and oxygen supply in the affected area can impair the health and function of both muscle and bone tissue. The dysfunction of nerves in CRPS can also negatively impact muscle and bone health, as the nerves play a crucial role in maintaining muscle tone and regulating bone remodeling processes. Over time, atrophy of muscles and bones in the affected area can further limit mobility, impair function, and increase the risk of fractures or other injuries.
Insomnia and difficulty sleeping due to pain – Individuals with CRPS after a car accident often experience insomnia and difficulty sleeping as a result of the chronic, severe pain associated with the condition. The pain can be so intense that it becomes challenging to find a comfortable position or to relax enough to fall asleep. Furthermore, even minor movements during sleep, such as shifting positions or coming into contact with bedding, can cause significant pain and awaken the individual due to the heightened sensitivity in the affected area. The inability to sleep soundly can have a profound impact on overall well-being, as sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate pain, fatigue, and other CRPS symptoms, creating a vicious cycle that further impairs the individual’s quality of life. The impact of CRPS on sleep underscores the importance of addressing the pain and other symptoms of the condition to help improve sleep and overall well-being.
It is important to note that CRPS symptoms after a car accidentcan change over time, and their severity can fluctuate. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing the condition and improving quality of life for those affected.
CRPS, or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, can be triggered by a serious car accident in several ways. Although the exact cause of CRPS is not fully understood, it is generally believed to be the result of an abnormal response to an injury or trauma. Here are some ways a car accident might lead to CRPS:
Direct trauma to a limb – acar accident can cause direct injuries to the limbs, such as fractures, dislocations, sprains, or severe bruising. The resulting damage to bones, muscles, and other soft tissues can trigger an exaggerated response from the nervous system, leading to the development of CRPS.
Nerve injury – in a car accident, nerves can be damaged due to direct impact, stretching, or compression from the force of the collision. This nerve injury may lead to abnormal pain signaling and contribute to the development of CRPS.
Surgery or immobilization – after a car accident, individuals may require surgery to repair damaged bones, joints, or other structures. Post-surgery immobilization or the use of casts, braces, or splints can also contribute to the development of CRPS. Prolonged immobilization can lead to joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and altered nerve function, all of which can trigger CRPS symptoms.
Psychological factors – the stress and emotional impact of a car accident can play a role in the development or exacerbation of CRPS. The body’s stress response can amplify pain and inflammation, which can contribute to the onset or worsening of CRPS symptoms.
Individual susceptibility – some individuals may have a genetic predisposition or other factors that make them more susceptible to developing CRPS after an injury or trauma. In these cases, a car accident might serve as the triggering event that initiates the development of CRPS in a susceptible individual.
It is important to note that not everyone who experiences a car accident or an injury will develop CRPS. The condition is relatively rare, and the factors that lead to its development are complex and not yet fully understood. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing CRPS and improving the quality of life for those affected.
Our Hamilton Car Accident Lawyers understand that a serious car accident can have a devastating impact on the life of the individual involved, with far-reaching emotional, physical, and financial consequences.
When serious car accident related injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations occur, the individual may face long-term disability, chronic pain, and a decreased quality of life. The process of recovery and rehabilitation can be challenging and time-consuming, significantly altering the individual’s daily life and routines.
If the injured person is the primary income earner, or the breadwinner, the consequences of the car accident can be particularly severe. Being unable to work temporarily or permanently can lead to a significant loss of income, placing immense financial stress on the individual and their family. The loss of income can result in financial instability, making it difficult to maintain their previous standard of living, cover basic living expenses, and pay for medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
The emotional impact of a serious car accident can be overwhelming for the injured individual. They may experience feelings of grief, anger, guilt, or depression as they grapple with the sudden changes in their life and the long-term consequences of their injuries. The emotional toll of the accident can strain relationships with family and friends and affect the overall well-being of the individual.
Additionally, the individual’s roles and responsibilities within their family and social circles may shift as a result of the car accident. Spouses, partners, or other family members may need to take on additional responsibilities or become caregivers, leading to changes in family dynamics and potential feelings of resentment or frustration.
Moreover, the ongoing medical needs and rehabilitation costs associated with serious injuries can place a significant financial burden on the individual, further exacerbating the stress and challenges they face in the aftermath of the car accident. In conclusion, a serious car accident can have wide-ranging and long-lasting consequences for the individual involved. The physical, emotional, and financial impacts can significantly alter their life, making it crucial to seek support and resources to help navigate these challenging circumstances.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious car accident and suffers from chronic regional pain syndrome (otherwise known as CRPS) call our car accident lawyers today, toll-free, no matter where you are in Ontario at 1-844-LALANDE or local in the Hamilton / Burlington area at 905-333-8888 or fill in a contact form on our website today. Our car accident lawyers would be more than happy to provide you and your family a free consultation and free case evaluation regarding your pain and suffering, insurance coverage, inform you of your legal rights as a car accident victim and your options concerning your car accident related injuries and losses.
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CRPS, or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, is a chronic pain condition that can be triggered by a car accident due to direct trauma to a limb, nerve injury, or the body’s abnormal response to the injury, leading to severe, persistent pain in the affected area.
Symptoms of CRPS include intense, burning pain, swelling, changes in skin color and temperature, increased sensitivity in the affected limb, and difficulty in coordinating muscle movement, which can significantly impact daily life and activities.
CRPS is diagnosed based on clinical examination and a detailed medical history, including the nature of the car accident and subsequent symptoms. There is no specific test for CRPS, so diagnosis relies on ruling out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
CRPS can develop shortly after a car accident or within weeks to months following the injury. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in managing CRPS, as timely treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening or becoming chronic.
Coping with the emotional impact of CRPS may involve seeking psychological support through therapy, joining support groups, practicing relaxation techniques, and maintaining open communication with family, friends, and healthcare professionals.
If CRPS is caused by a car accident that was not your fault, you may be eligible to claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Consult with a car accident lawyer to discuss your specific case and legal options.
I was a dental hygienist that suffers from really bad scoliosis. My insurance company ignored my doc & cut my benefits off & told me I could do “something”. Matt got me CPP Disability and and LTD settlement – I don’t know what I would have done without him.
My daughter was killed by a drunk driver and it forever changed all of our lives. It seemed that for two years time stopped. This was no an easy journey. Matt let me sit in on the discovery of the driver and boy, he never let up. In the end, our grand-daughter was taken care of and we were compensated for our loss – which we then donated to a cause we believed in.
I call Matt my knight in shining armour. After I was struck by a car while cycling and permanently crippled, he fielded all communications with my especially difficult and downright nasty insurance adjuster. Every step of my care was a battle and I did not have the strength to fight alone.
I lost my leg in a terrible motorcycle accident and Matt help me recover compensation I need because I could not work and the cost of prosthetics and rehab are out of this world. I don’t know what I would have done without him.
My brother ended up paralyzed after a car accident and Lalande did SO MUCH to help get things straight from him getting out of the hospital to all his care for life. We are so grateful for Matt & Heather. I don’t know how my family could have done this without them.
