Bone pain after sprain or fracture? 6 warning signs of CRPS explained by orthopedic surgeon

The ache that lingers long after a sprain, fracture, or surgery often gets brushed aside as “normal recovery”. But what if that pain doesn’t go away? For some, it worsens with time; burning, stabbing, and affecting daily life. This could be more than a slow recovery. It might be Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a condition that's more common than we think, especially among women over 40. However, it is treatable, if caught early.

CRPS is a rare but serious neurological condition where pain persists in an arm, leg, hand, or foot, often long after the original injury has healed. It can result from changes in the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves. According to Dr Paneendra, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, told Moneycontrol,  many patients, especially women in their 40s and 50s, who suffer for months before realising their pain is not normal. “CRPS can start after something as common as a sprained ankle or fractured wrist.”

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Dr Paneendra talks about the two types of CRPS, the symptoms, and treatment options:

Types of CRPS:

• Type 1 occurs without direct nerve damage, often following a fracture or minor injury.
• Type 2 is linked to direct damage to the nerves.

In both types, the pain is usually disproportionate to the injury and can include strange symptoms like skin colour changes, temperature shifts, swelling, and even nail or hair growth changes.

Symptoms to take seriously

CRPS doesn’t look or feel like your average recovery. Here’s what to watch for:

• Burning or stabbing pain in the limb that worsens over time.

• Extreme sensitivity to touch, even from clothing or a light breeze.

• Swelling, stiffness, and reduced movement in the affected area.

• Skin discolouration – pale, red, or blue tones.

• Unusual hair and nail growth, or even sweating patterns.

• Bone changes such as thinning or, in some cases, excess growth

“These symptoms aren’t in your head,” Dr Paneendra assures. “They reflect real changes in how the nerves and brain are processing pain signals.”

Treatment: The sooner, the better

CRPS is most treatable in its early stages. The longer it goes untreated, the harder it can be to reverse its effects.

here’s what helps:

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• Physical therapy

Movement is medicine. Gentle exercises help restore mobility and reduce stiffness.
“It’s not about pushing through pain,” says Dr. Paneendra. “It's about retraining the brain and body.”

• Graded motor imagery & mirror therapy: These mental and visual exerciseshelp the brain rewire its pain response.

• Medication: Pain relievers, nerve-blocking drugs, and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce discomfort.

• Occupational therapy: Learn new ways to do everyday tasks that reduce strain on the affected limb.

• Desensitisation techniques: Gentle brushing or touching helps the nervous system ‘unlearn’ hypersensitivity.

Lifestyle plays a role too

Beyond treatment, managing overall health supports recovery:

• Quit smoking– nicotine impairs blood flow and delays nerve healing

• Manage existing conditions like diabetes or arthritis

• Sleep well and stay active – even light movement improves circulation

• Lower stress levels – stress can worsen nerve pain

“We often underestimate the power of mental health and daily habits in pain recovery,” adds Dr Paneendra. “Support, structure, and the right therapy plan can truly change lives.”

With the right support and early intervention, recovery of CRPS is possible. Speak to your doctor, ask questions, and take action. Your body may be telling you something important. Listen.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.