Emerging models for successful treatment of complex regional pain syndrome in children and young adults
John Dunbar 1 , Hamish Wilson 2 31 Department of Orthopaedics, Healthcare Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
2 Otago Medical School, University of Otago, PO Box 913, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
3 Corresponding author. Email: Hamish.wilson@otago.ac.nz
Journal of Primary Health Care 11(3) 283-287 https://doi.org/10.1071/HC19025
Published: 20 September 2019
Journal Compilation © Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners 2019 This is an open access article licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License
Abstract
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a relatively common condition that is often not well recognised or treated adequately. Patients are usually referred to multidisciplinary pain services, but outcomes remain variable. This case report describes a recent patient with CRPS who was treated quickly and effectively through a simple explanation of the relationship between mind and body, and who then was able to modify her own thought processes and behaviours. This single intervention enabled a complete resolution of symptoms. This report illustrates the clinical application of recent insights into neuroplasticity and individually tailored patient self-management that may now offer successful treatment of an otherwise chronic and disabling condition, especially in younger patients. There are implications for doctors in current practice, as well as for the training of medical students and junior doctors.
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