CRPS And How The Stimpod Neurostimulator Can Help
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that most often affects one limb — an arm, leg, hand, or foot — following an injury. CRPS is rare and is thought to involve abnormal responses in the nervous system. However, a true cause of this condition has not been officially established; we know it normally happens after something like an injury, but the root cause of it has yet to be discovered. This condition causes the nerves to send pain signals to the brain even when there’s no reason for it, leading to severe and often disabling pain. It can start after a minor injury, surgery, or even an immobilization period, like wearing a cast.
There are two types of CRPS:
- CRPS-I (formerly known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy or RSD): Occurs without any confirmed nerve damage. It often starts after a minor injury or illness.
- CRPS-II (previously called Causalgia): Happens when there’s clear evidence of nerve injury.
Common Symptoms of CRPS
CRPS symptoms can vary, but some of the most common include:
- Continuous, intense pain that is often described as burning, throbbing, or “pins and needles” pain.
- Swelling and stiffness in the affected area.
- Skin changes, such as becoming blotchy, shiny, red, or even blue or purple.
- Changes in skin temperature (feeling warmer or cooler than other areas).
- Increased sensitivity to touch, meaning even light contact can cause severe pain.
- Weakness and difficulty moving the affected limb.
Symptoms can appear gradually and may worsen over time, making early treatment essential for the best chance at managing pain and other symptoms. These symptoms can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming, as even a small touch or slight movement can trigger intense pain. However, no matter where you are in your journey with CRPS, it is never too late to start physical therapy. While early treatment is ideal, you can always seek treatment for the pain at any time.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), you know the struggles that come with this challenging condition. Unlike typical pain from an injury, CRPS pain can feel much more intense than expected.
How CRPS Is Diagnosed
Because CRPS doesn’t have a single test to confirm it, getting a diagnosis can sometimes feel confusing or frustrating. Doctors usually rely on a physical exam and may order imaging tests, like X-rays or MRIs, to rule out other conditions. Most CRPS diagnoses are based on symptoms, medical history, and findings from physical exams. It will most likely take several visits to a doctor before this diagnosis is given since no single test can officially confirm it.
While CRPS has no known cure, many treatments are available to help people manage the symptoms and enjoy a higher quality of life. Some patients find that a combination of physical therapy, medications, and newer treatments — like the Stimpod Neurostimulator — offers the most promising relief.
Introducing the Stimpod Neurostimulator
The Stimpod Neurostimulator is a cutting-edge device that uses a special type of electrical stimulation to ease nerve pain. This device works by interrupting the abnormal pain signals that are often overactive in CRPS. Unlike medications, the Stimpod is non-invasive, meaning it doesn’t require surgery, and it is a drug-free treatment, so there are no side effects related to medication use.
How the Stimpod Neurostimulator Works
When the Stimpod is applied, it sends gentle electrical pulses through the skin to the nerves below. These pulses disrupt the pain signals being sent to the brain, helping to reduce the intensity of pain. This technology is particularly useful for those with CRPS because it’s designed to treat the nerve-related pain that is often at the heart of CRPS symptoms. Many patients report feeling some relief after the first treatment session, while others benefit from regular treatments over time. How quickly you experience relief just depends on the severity of your symptoms and where you are experiencing them.
Benefits of the Stimpod for CRPS
The Stimpod Neurostimulator offers several benefits for those dealing with CRPS. One of the most significant advantages is pain relief without medication. People with CRPS often rely on multiple medications to manage their pain, and adding more drugs can lead to side effects and potential interactions. We also see lots of medications that have long-lasting effects on other parts of the body that cause issues which is why we try to work with the body as it is instead of adding medications or using invasive procedures. With the Stimpod, patients can potentially reduce or even eliminate the need for additional medications.
Another benefit is that the Stimpod is non-invasive, so it doesn’t require surgery or any type of invasive procedure. This makes it a low-risk treatment option that avoids the potential complications of surgical interventions. The Stimpod’s electrical pulses specifically target nerve pain, making it ideal for CRPS, where nerve dysfunction is the primary cause of pain. This targeted approach helps patients experience relief more effectively than some other forms of treatment.
Because the Stimpod eases pain, it also enables people with CRPS to participate more fully in physical therapy, which can improve mobility and prevent additional complications. With increased comfort and reduced pain, patients are more likely to stay active, which can help reduce muscle stiffness and joint issues.
Lastly, the Stimpod is user-friendly and portable. That makes it perfect for our mobile concierge physical therapy practice. We can bring this wonderful device to your location on your schedule. If you are suffering from CRPS related pain, this device can be a game changer, especially since we can use it on you for a few minutes at your home or even at your office.
What to Expect During Stimpod Treatment
During a Stimpod session, your physical therapist will place small electrodes on the skin near the area where you feel pain. These electrodes will deliver gentle electrical pulses, which you might experience as a light tingling sensation. Sessions are usually brief, lasting around 20-30 minutes, depending on your therapist’s recommendations. Some patients notice a reduction in pain after their first treatment, but for others, it may take several sessions to feel the full benefit. Your therapist will likely suggest a treatment plan that fits your specific needs, with regular sessions over a period of weeks.
Once the initial series of treatments is complete, some people find that they only need occasional sessions to maintain their relief, while others may benefit from more regular visits. Your physical therapist will work with you to tailor your sessions to your needs. At Move Empower Concierge Physical Therapy, we understand that you will have both good days and bad days, so we are ready to customize your treatment plan.
Safety and Side Effects
The Stimpod Neurostimulator is a safe treatment option for most people with CRPS. Because it’s a non-invasive treatment that doesn’t involve drugs, side effects are rare. Some patients may experience mild skin irritation where the electrodes are placed, but this typically clears up quickly. Always let your therapist know if you have any health conditions that might affect your ability to use the Stimpod safely.
Is the Stimpod Right for You?
If you are looking for a non-invasive, drug-free treatment to help manage CRPS, the Stimpod Neurostimulator could be a great option. This treatment is ideal for people who want pain relief without the risks and side effects of surgery or additional medications. The Stimpod offers an innovative way to manage nerve pain, which can be resistant to other types of treatment.
Although some patients feel relief after just one session, CRPS is a complex condition, and multiple treatments are often needed to achieve long-term results. If you’re ready to commit to a new approach and explore a proven, non-invasive therapy, the Stimpod may be right for you.
How to Get Started with Stimpod Treatment
If the Stimpod Neurostimulator sounds like a treatment that could help you, consider scheduling a consultation with a Texas physical therapist who is trained in using the device. In a consultation, your therapist will review your symptoms, medical history, and other factors to decide if the Stimpod fits well into your treatment plan.
Many physical therapy clinics offer free or low-cost consultations for first-time patients, giving you a chance to learn more about the device, ask questions, and explore whether it might be a good solution for your CRPS symptoms.
Living with CRPS is tough, but the Stimpod Neurostimulator offers a new pathway to pain relief. By targeting nerve pain, this device provides patients with a safe, non-invasive treatment that fits into a broader plan for managing CRPS. With reduced pain and improved comfort, people with CRPS may experience greater mobility and a better quality of life. If you think the Stimpod could help you, schedule a FREE discovery session with one of our specialist physical therapists. This free session will allow the PT to listen to your story and examine your pain points to create a customized treatment plan just for you.