Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome? Which activities would you suggest and how intense should they be?

See if it is advisable for people with CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome to practice sports and which ones are the most recommended if you have CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

CRPS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome sports

Is it advisable to do exercise when affected by CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)?

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that typically affects one limb, often after an injury or trauma. It is characterized by intense pain, swelling, changes in skin color and temperature, and limited range of motion. Given the debilitating nature of CRPS, it is natural to wonder if exercise is advisable for individuals with this condition.

The Benefits of Exercise for CRPS

While it may seem counterintuitive, exercise can actually be beneficial for individuals with CRPS. Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve overall function, reduce pain levels, and enhance quality of life. Here are some of the key benefits of exercise for CRPS:

Pain management: Exercise has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. By engaging in physical activity, individuals with CRPS may experience a reduction in pain levels.

Improved circulation: CRPS often leads to poor blood flow and circulation in the affected limb. Exercise can help improve blood flow, which in turn promotes healing and reduces swelling.

Increased range of motion: CRPS can cause stiffness and limited range of motion in the affected limb. Regular exercise, particularly stretching and gentle movements, can help improve flexibility and increase range of motion.

Enhanced mood and mental well-being: Chronic pain conditions like CRPS can take a toll on mental health. Exercise has been shown to boost mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall mental well-being.

Recommended Exercises for CRPS

When it comes to exercise for individuals with CRPS, it is important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity and duration. Here are some recommended exercises:

Low-impact aerobic exercises: Activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are excellent choices for individuals with CRPS. These exercises are gentle on the joints and can help improve cardiovascular fitness without putting excessive strain on the affected limb.

Range of motion exercises: Gentle stretching and range of motion exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in the affected limb. It is important to perform these exercises within a pain-free range and avoid pushing beyond one's limits.

Strength training: Building strength in the muscles surrounding the affected limb can help provide support and stability. However, it is crucial to use light weights or resistance bands and focus on proper form to avoid exacerbating pain or causing injury.

Balance and coordination exercises: CRPS can affect balance and coordination, making individuals more prone to falls. Engaging in exercises that challenge balance, such as yoga or tai chi, can help improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.

Important Considerations

While exercise can be beneficial for individuals with CRPS, it is essential to approach it with caution and seek guidance from a healthcare professional or physical therapist. Here are some important considerations:

Individualized approach: Each person with CRPS may have different limitations and needs. It is crucial to tailor exercise programs to individual abilities and pain levels.

Gradual progression: Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase intensity and duration over time. Pushing too hard or too quickly can worsen symptoms and lead to setbacks.

Pain management strategies: It is important to have effective pain management strategies in place before engaging in exercise. This may include medication, heat or cold therapy, or relaxation techniques.

Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body responds to exercise. If an activity causes excessive pain or discomfort, it is important to modify or stop the exercise and consult with a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

While exercise can be beneficial for individuals with CRPS, it is crucial to approach it with caution and seek guidance from healthcare professionals. Low-impact aerobic exercises, range of motion exercises, strength training, and balance and coordination exercises are recommended for individuals with CRPS. However, it is important to start slowly, gradually increase intensity, and listen to your body. Remember, every individual with CRPS is unique, so it is essential to tailor exercise programs to individual needs and limitations.

Diseasemaps

Posted Apr 20, 2017 by Chloe 1000

Yes! But exercise needs to be low impact and stopped if anything hurts. Ride a stationary bike if your legs or feet are affected. Spin a hand bike if your arms are affected. Get in the pool and move like you moved before. As you progress, try to push it a little bit more, but never to the point of pain. Stretch gently, have people help you stretch. I rode my stationary bike for hours and hours just trying to keep the blood flow in my foot. Meditate. It doesn't seem like exercise, but mental focus takes a tremendous amount of concentration and energy.

Posted May 9, 2017 by Jon 1100

It is advisable to go to physical therapy and to keep active as you are physically able to. Talk to your doctor about physical therapy, and make sure they understand your disease at the therapy office. Also stay away from ice therapy or applying ice for pain or swelling as this will make the crps worse. Another thing to talk to your doctor or physical therapist about is desensitization exercises for the affected limb or area. It will make living with crps more manageable.

Posted May 24, 2017 by Vicki 500

Yes, some may find it's helpful. Increased adrenaline and endorphins help with pain. Working out increases these things and can aid in feeling better even for the moment.

Posted May 24, 2017 by Stevi 600

Depending on how severe and where your CRPS is, you are able to exercise with CRPS. Your doctor will recommend you be as active as possible. Walking and yoga is good for CRPS

Posted Aug 17, 2017 by Chelsea 2335

Walking is good but should any exercise cause pain, refrained from doing it as it will allow nerves to flare up and cause pain

Posted Sep 6, 2017 by [email protected] 5060

Yes my thought is move it or loose it.

Posted Sep 11, 2017 by Craig 1600

Exercise always advisable even if just little and as iften as one can

Posted Sep 13, 2017 by Andy 3550

Exercise is great with CRPS, it can help you keep or regain your muscle and function of affected limb. If nothing else it will keep the rest of your body healthy. However, you should know your limits and ONLY exercise within that range. Pushing yourself too hard and going beyond your limit couod cause a flare up.

Posted Sep 13, 2017 by Chanelle 1250

Exercise, even simple movement, is critical for people affected by CRPS. Intense workouts should be avoided because they can trigger painful spasms and elevated blood pressure. However, gentle movement of unaffected limbs, moderate cardio-vascular workouts and stretching are important for the metabolism, blood flow, and a sense of well-being. Individuals living with CRPS benefit from working with a physical or occupational therapist familiar with the disease to develop a workout routine that supports their health and rehabilitation.

Posted Sep 15, 2017 by DrLisa 3750

Exercise at your own pace and look after your affected limbs. I do not recommend using personal trainers as they tend to push too hard

Posted Sep 19, 2017 by Alex 2550

It is advisable to keep moving the limb affected. There is no set activity since everyone affected is different. Warm Water PT is the less strenuous and hurts less.
People should stop if the pain is too much, everyone has to learn what there body can tolerate and slowly work there way up just as they would without a disease.

Posted Oct 8, 2017 by Valerie 1500

I personally wouldn’t exercise the limb that’s affected

Posted Nov 11, 2017 by Robbie 2000

Activity can help or hinder . Slow and steady, don’t over do it what ever you try. You have to start with slow movement depending on what is affected. Aqua therapy is a good option for many, walking and basic stretching is wonderful for movement and mind alike. If you can no longer bike ride, look at a recumbent bike that you sit on!

Posted Nov 11, 2017 by Aj 2000

Exercise is advisable. Do as much as you can. Walking, water (although painful for many people), yoga and as much as you can when you can. The better health you are in the less determintal the disease will be.

Posted Nov 12, 2017 by Shanna 5000

The only exercises I would recommend might be ones suggested by a physical therapist. A doctor would need to make a referral to a physical therapist.

Posted Nov 12, 2017 by ladyff1481 2050

Yes! Yes! Yes! Don't let your muscles atrophy! CRPS is neurological, not surgical. It's nerves misfiring, not actual physical injury. Learn the difference between true physical pain and CRPS pain. It's very similar but different.

Posted Nov 12, 2017 by Thea 3150

move, move , move!! Especially the affected limb, to prevent it from becoming even weaker, and losing any ability you might have gained in therapy. Don't over-do, or you will pay for it the next day with total exhaustion. If you were super active /athletic before, continue as much as possible. Even if you were a couch potato- get up & move!

Posted May 15, 2018 by Tammy 800

You can do whatever feels good to you and your CRPS affected limb like going swimming or taking a walk

Posted May 30, 2018 by Passwort123 700

Exercise as long as you feel comfortable. Excess exercising can cause pain flares

Posted Oct 25, 2018 by Misty 2100

After going to Specialist after Specialist, the one common mantra I heard was...move it or lose it! I am a firm believer in keeping active. I push myself everyday. At first, I was sad that I could not bowl right handed or rock climb, anything that required my hand or shoulder. Then it dawned on me, at the time I could walk. Therefore if I wanted to challenge myself, I could start running. Not everyone can do that. I can't now. But for me, I did whatever I could do. Whatever it is! Now sometimes when I am stuck in bed, I do arm exercises. Anything to keep moving! The more I don't move, the more I can't.

Posted Nov 1, 2018 by Judy 3000

Yes, continue to keep moving. Should get into a Physical Therapy Program. The activity I mostly recommend would be aqua therapy if you can tolerate it. Low impact as well.

Posted Jan 5, 2019 by Cynthia 4000

Keeping from getting muscle atrophy keeping moving as much as possible.
Always know your limits.
And do check w your doctors

Posted Jan 16, 2021 by Patricia 3050

Don’t cause any pain to yourself while doing anything. Causing Injuries or pain in a separate area can cause the crps to spread to that spot.

Posted Mar 19, 2021 by Melanie 1200

If possible, patients with CRPS should do light cardio such as walking, jogging, biking, etc.. If they would like to, they may lift weights, but consult with their doctor beforehand.

Posted Mar 29, 2021 by Sage0920 2000

Exercise is critical and to hear the words from a physio st the Walton Centre for Neuroligical Excellence say that ypu wont get any worse or come to any hsrm because you exercise was a blessed relief. I go to the gym,walk my dogs and never in a milion years would have ever thought could go back to martial arts. But have. Also take part in a neuroplasticity ( brain training class) which actually works. Check out RGM aka the Ronnie Gardiner Method. Badically a way of retraining the brain to get the old body working again

Posted Nov 3, 2022 by Heather 5020