Can complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) spread from its original body site to a distant site?

Can complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) spread from its original body site to a distant site?

Yes it can. For example, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can spread from a primary site, such as a hand, to a distant site, such as the leg or foot.

If treated early, spinal cord stimulation may prevent spread to another site. Spinal cord stimulation can be effective for CRPS affecting either the upper or lower extremity. In some cases, it can be used to treat CRPS affecting both upper and lower extremities at the same time. Spinal cord stimulation is reserved for patients whose condition has not responded to medications and/or other therapies.