Understanding Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is a rare but deeply impactful condition. It often develops after an injury, surgery, or immobilisation — but the pain and symptoms go far beyond the original cause.
People with Hand/Arm CRPS commonly describe:
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Severe, burning, or electric‑type pain
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Swelling or colour changes
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Temperature changes (hot/cold sensations)
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Hypersensitivity to touch, movement, or vibration
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Stiffness or reduced range of motion
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Difficulty using the affected hand for daily tasks
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Fear of movement due to pain
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Feeling misunderstood or dismissed
CRPS is real, complex, and life‑changing — and you deserve support that understands both the physical and emotional impact.
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How Occupational Therapy Helps CRPS
OT focuses on function, pain management, desensitisation, graded movement, and nervous system regulation. The goal is to help you regain confidence, reduce sensitivity, and restore meaningful use of your hand and arm.
What we work on together:
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Graded motor imagery (GMI)
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Mirror therapy
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Desensitisation techniques
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Pacing and flare‑up prevention
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Gentle functional movement
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Graded return to functional use
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Stress + nervous system regulation
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Adaptive tools for daily tasks
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Return‑to‑work or activity planning
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Pain neuroscience education
OT gives you practical, evidence‑based tools to help you move safely, reduce fear, and rebuild function.
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Wy OT is Ideal for CRPS
CRPS affects pain, movement, sensation, and emotional wellbeing. OT is uniquely suited because it focuses on:
1. Function, not just symptoms
We help you return to meaningful activities — from self‑care to work tasks.
2. Nervous system‑informed care
CRPS involves changes in the brain and nervous system. OT uses techniques that target these pathways gently and safely.
3. Graded, non‑threatening movement
We rebuild movement confidence step by step.
4. Whole‑person support
Pain, fear, stress, and daily life challenges are all connected — and OT addresses them together.
3
What do Sessions Look Like
Sessions are gentle, collaborative, and paced around your symptoms and comfort level.
A typical session may include:
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Mapping your pain and sensitivity patterns
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Exploring desensitisation techniques
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Practising graded motor imagery or mirror therapy
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Introducing gentle functional tasks
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Adjusting routines to reduce flare‑ups
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Building confidence in using your hand or arm
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Creating a personalised flare‑up plan
You leave each session with clear, manageable steps that support recovery
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Who This Service is For
Adults experiencing:
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Hand/Arm CRPS
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Chronic hand or arm pain with hypersensitivity
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Reduced hand function due to pain or fear of movement
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Difficulty returning to work or daily tasks
If CRPS is affecting your independence, confidence, or quality of life, OT can help.
