CRPS, or complex regional pain syndrome, is classified as one of the most painful conditions in the world. If left untreated, it becomes chronic and can even leave the patient completely immobile.
The condition can sometimes be difficult to diagnose in primary care due to its rarity.
– This can cause diagnostic delays for many patients, says Hanna Harno, a specialist in neurology at the Helsinki University Hospital Pain Clinic.
In CRPS, getting the right diagnosis quickly is essential for proper treatment. If the pain is not controlled and the patient is not treated correctly, the condition will become chronic.
Recognizing pain is traditionally considered challenging and problematic due to its multidimensional and subjective nature (1). The first step toward high-quality pain management is recognizing the pain and locating its extent and location.
Thermal imaging locates the problem area - customer case
“In November 2023, a man fell from a ladder and injured his left wrist. Diagnosis: S52.5: Fracture of the lower part of the radius.
In February 2024, the diagnosis was clarified: Clinical findings consistent with both CRPS syndrome and median nerve entrapment in the carpal tunnel area.
The patient has brought along images taken with a thermal camera, which show the areas of pain at rest and after exertion.”
(1) Rissanen, K. (2019) Monikulttuurisuuden haasteet postoperatiivisen kivun hoidossa. Kipuviesti 2/2019.
