Work Comp Benefits for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
By James M. Hoffmann
Mar. 25, 2016 11:38a
There are a wide variety of injuries and illnesses that a person can develop at a workplace. While some injuries are a result of a one time incident, others develop over a period of time. One such chronic illness that can develop after a serious injury is complex regional pain syndrome. Those who suffer from this chronic condition may have pain in their hands, feet, arms, legs, back or joints.
Though this condition is not life threatening, it can be very distressing and frustrating as the victims have to bear with symptoms such as muscle stiffness, tenderness, spasms and other painful symptoms. This condition can also cause many complications and make it difficult for the worker to return to work or perform previous duties.
Causes of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome is also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy and is caused by some type of malfunction or damage to a person's peripheral and nervous system, which includes the spinal cord, brain, and the nervous system.
Common Triggers of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
The cause of complex regional pain syndrome is largely unknown. It is believed to be the result of abnormal irritation or excitement of the nervous system caused by an injury or surgery. The origin of complex regional pain syndrome can also be attributed to:
- Shoulder problems
- Nerve irritation by entrapment, condition such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Degenerative arthritis of the neck
- Heart disease
- Stroke or other brain disease
- Burns, bruises, cuts
- Sprains or strains
- Broken bones or fractures
- Excessive limb mobilization
- Serious surgical procedures
Vehicle accidents, slip and falls in the workplace, and other job related accidents can cause such injuries. When a worker develops complex regional pain syndrome, it becomes important that he/she gets necessary treatment and care to manage this condition.
How Does a Worker Know If They Have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Workers affected often notice changes in skin color, temperature, or sensitivity around the site of injury, in addition to chronic pain, it is likely that he/she has developed complex regional pain syndrome. The injured worker may have pain in the limbs or other parts of the body. The level of pain and symptoms may worsen over time if the condition is not treated in time.
To diagnose the condition the doctor must review the worker's medical history, exam his/her physical condition, and perform various diagnostic tests. It is often difficult to identify the condition without correct background, information, and training.
If you have developed complex regional pain syndrome after a workplace injury, you may be entitled to workers compensation benefits. However, it may not always be easy to prove that the condition is a result of workplace injury and the insurance company may try to reduce or even deny benefits. So, it is important to speak with a
St Louis workplace accident lawyer who can protect your rights. Call (314) 361-4300 to schedule a free consultation today.