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Likar R, Poglitsch R, Bejvančický Š, Carl L, Ferencik M, Klein-Watrycz A, Rieger M, Flores KS, Schumich A, Vlamaki Z, Werner M. The Use of High-Dose Intravenous L-Ascorbate in Pain Therapy: Current Evidence from the Literature. Pain Ther 2024; 13:767-790. [PMID: 38864974 PMCID: PMC11255149 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-024-00622-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pain is the most common reason for seeking medical treatment. Despite extensive research efforts and effective analgesics modulating pain, there is still a major therapeutic gap in addressing the root causes of pain. Pain is associated with tissue damage induced by oxidative stress and induction of inflammatory mediators following high consumption of antioxidants. The role of antioxidants in general, and the administration of L-ascorbate in particular, is still controversially discussed and underestimated in the daily clinical practice. METHODS The current literature on the therapeutic effect of L-ascorbate, ascorbic acid, and vitamin C on various pain conditions was evaluated against the background of evidence-based medicine. Those articles, obtained from systematic search in PubMed, were critically assessed and rated in terms of evidence level and methodological quality by two independent experts. The primary purpose of this work was to establish specific pain therapy guidance for intravenous L-ascorbate. RESULTS A PubMed search revealed 14 suitable articles comprising controlled clinical trials and meta-analyses. An additional ten publications could be identified via secondary literature. There is supporting evidence for the efficacy of ascorbate treatment in inflammatory pain conditions, in the complex regional pain syndrome, in post zoster neuralgia, in neuropathic pain, in post-operative pain conditions, and in tumor-related pain. However, the considered studies differ in the type of administration, in dosage, in duration of treatment, as well as in quality of research. Despite all study heterogeneity, it became evident that research of high scientific quality is in support of the efficacy of L-ascorbate in pain treatment. DISCUSSION Oxidative stress is present in almost all pain conditions. Because oral administration of most magistral formulas of vitamin C does not provide biological availability, parenteral administration should be preferred and can be supported by an oral dose with high bioavailability on days without intravenous treatment. L-ascorbate should be preferred for parenteral high dosage, rather than ascorbic acid, as it does not release acid valences under physiological conditions. CONCLUSIONS L-ascorbate is an effective, safe, and economically favorable integrative treatment option for various pain conditions, addressing the root cause of tissue damage and inflammatory mediator burst.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rudolf Likar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum Klagenfurt Am Wörthersee, Chair of Palliative Medicine SFU Vienna, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria.
| | - Ruth Poglitsch
- Medical Institute Dr. Poglitsch, Pain Medicine, Graz, Austria
| | - Štěpán Bejvančický
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Pilsen, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Ludwig Carl
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum Mutterhaus Trier, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Miroslav Ferencik
- Department of Algesiology SZU, F. D. Roosevelt University Hospital, Banska Bystrica, Slovakia
| | - Alfred Klein-Watrycz
- Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hospital Mistelbach, Mistelbach, Austria
| | - Monika Rieger
- Pain Therapy Practice Rieger, Bingen am Rhein, Germany
| | | | - Astrid Schumich
- Private Practice for General Medicine, Orthopaedics, Orthopaedic Surgery and Functional Myodiagnostics, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zoe Vlamaki
- General Surgery and Breast Oncoplastic Surgery, NMC Royal Hospital, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marc Werner
- Clinic for Naturopathy and Integrative Medicine, Evangelische Kliniken Essen-Mitte GmbH, Essen, Germany
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Seth I, Lim B, Cevik J, Gracias D, Chua M, Kenney PS, Rozen WM, Cuomo R. Impact of nutrition on skin wound healing and aesthetic outcomes: A comprehensive narrative review. JPRAS Open 2024; 39:291-302. [PMID: 38370002 PMCID: PMC10874171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpra.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background While current wound treatment strategies often focus on antimicrobials and topical agents, the role of nutrition in wound healing and aesthetic outcomes is crucial but frequently overlooked. This review assesses the impact of specific nutrients and preoperative nutritional status on surgical outcomes. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library, from the inception of the study to October 2023. The study focused on the influence of macronutrients and micronutrients on aesthetic outcomes, the optimization of preoperative nutritional status, and the association between nutritional status and postoperative complications. Inclusion criteria were English language peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials related to the impact of nutrition on skin wound healing and aesthetic outcomes. Exclusion criteria included non-English publications, non-peer-reviewed articles, opinion pieces, and animal studies. Results Omega-3 fatty acids and specific amino acids were linked to enhanced wound-healing and immune function. Vitamins A, B, and C and zinc positively influenced healing stages, while vitamin E showed variable results. Polyphenolic compounds showed anti-inflammatory effects beneficial for recovery. Malnutrition was associated with increased postoperative complications and infections, whereas preoperative nutritional support correlated with reduced hospital stays and complications. Conclusion Personalized nutritional plans are essential in surgical care, particularly for enhanced recovery after surgery protocols. Despite the demonstrated benefits of certain nutrients, gaps in research, particularly regarding elements such as iron, necessitate further studies. Nutritional assessments and interventions are vital for optimal preoperative care, underscoring the need for more comprehensive guidelines and research in nutritional management for surgical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishith Seth
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
- Central Clinical School at Monash University, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Bryan Lim
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
- Central Clinical School at Monash University, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Jevan Cevik
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
| | - Dylan Gracias
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
| | - Marcel Chua
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
- Central Clinical School at Monash University, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Peter Sinkjaer Kenney
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløwsvej 4, Odense 5000, Denmark
- Department of Plastic and Breast Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Warren M. Rozen
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Peninsula Health, Melbourne, Victoria 3199, Australia
- Central Clinical School at Monash University, The Alfred Centre, 99 Commercial Rd, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Roberto Cuomo
- Plastic Surgery Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
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Iolascon G, Snichelotto F, Moretti A. An update on the pharmacotherapeutic options for complex regional pain syndrome. Expert Rev Neurother 2024; 24:177-190. [PMID: 38241139 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2024.2307490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a rare and painful condition that has a wide range of triggering factors, often traumatic, and can present various clinical manifestations. The lack of knowledge about the underlying mechanisms has led to numerous treatment approaches, both conservative and surgical, which work through different mechanisms of action. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors explore the key aspects of CRPS, including definition, diagnostic criteria, pitfalls, pathogenic hypotheses, and treatment strategies with a focus on pharmacotherapy. The review was based on a comprehensive search of the literature using PubMed, while also considering international guidelines for managing CRPS. EXPERT OPINION Based on the available evidence, pharmacological interventions appear to be effective in treating CRPS, especially when they target peripheral mechanisms, specifically nociceptive inflammatory pain, and when administered early in the course of the disease. However, there is still a lack of reliable evidence regarding the effects of drugs on central mechanisms of chronic pain in CRPS. In our expert opinion, drug therapy should be initiated as soon as possible, particularly in warm CRPS patient clusters, to prevent significant functional limitations, psychological distress, and negative impacts on individuals' social and economic well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Iolascon
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Snichelotto
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
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Frediani JK, Lal AA, Kim E, Leslie SL, Boorman DW, Singh V. The role of diet and non-pharmacologic supplements in the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain: A systematic review. Pain Pract 2024; 24:186-210. [PMID: 37654090 DOI: 10.1111/papr.13291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/IMPORTANCE Dietary interventions, vitamins, and nutritional supplementation are playing an increasingly important role in the management of neuropathic pain. Current pharmacological treatments are poorly tolerated and ineffective in many cases. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to study the efficacy of dietary interventions, vitamins, and nutritional supplementation in the management of chronic neuropathic pain in adults. EVIDENCE REVIEW The review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (#CRD42022300312). Ten databases and gray literature, including Embase.com, MEDLINE and Web of Science, were systematically searched using a combination of keywords and controlled vocabulary related to chronic neuropathic pain and oral non-pharmacological supplements. Studies on adult humans published between 2000 and 2021 were considered for inclusion. The Cochrane Handbook was used to assess risk of bias, and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation was used to determine overall quality of evidence. FINDINGS Forty studies were included in the final review, and results were categorized according to pain type including pain related to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN, 22 studies, including 3 prospective cohorts), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN, 13 studies, including 2 prospective), complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS-I, 3 studies, including 1 prospective), and other (2 studies, both RCT). The CIPN studies used various interventions including goshajinkigan (4 studies), vitamin E (5), vitamin B12 (3), glutamine (3), N-acetyl-cysteine (2), acetyl-l-carnitine (2), guilongtonluofang (1), ninjin'yoeito (1), alpha-lipoic acid (1), l-carnosine (1), magnesium and calcium (1), crocin (1), and antioxidants (1), with some studies involving multiple interventions. All CIPN studies involved varying cancers and/or chemotherapies, advising caution for generalizability of results. Interventions for DPN included alpha-lipoic acid (5 studies), vitamin B12 (3), acetyl-l-carnitine (3), vitamin E (1), vitamin D (2), and a low-fat plant-based diet (1). Vitamin C was studied to treat CRPS-I (3 studies, including 1 prospective). Magnesium (1) and St. John's wort (1) were studied for other or mixed neuropathologies. CONCLUSIONS Based on the review, we cannot recommend any supplement use for the management of CIPN, although further research into N-acetyl-cysteine, l-carnosine, crocin, and magnesium is warranted. Acetyl-l-carnitine was found to be likely ineffective or harmful. Alpha-lipoic acid was not found effective. Studies with goshajinkigan, vitamin B12, vitamin E, and glutamine had conflicting results regarding efficacy, with one goshajinkigan study finding it harmful. Guilongtonluofang, ninjin'yoeito, and antioxidants showed various degrees of potential effectiveness. Regarding DPN, our review supports the use of alpha-lipoic acid, acetyl-l-carnitine, and vitamin D. The early use of vitamin C prophylaxis for the development of CRPS-I also seems promising. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Frediani
- Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Asim A Lal
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Esther Kim
- Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Suwanee, Georgia, USA
| | - Sharon L Leslie
- Woodruff Health Sciences Center Library, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - David W Boorman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vinita Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Gabriel T, Klose P. [Complementary methods in the treatment of complex regional pain syndrome]. Schmerz 2023; 37:330-335. [PMID: 37268791 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-023-00724-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) affects 10-15% of patients following injuries (fractures, surgery) to the outer extremities and people after a stroke. The affected area hurts, is inflamed and lacks strength, while mobility and sensitivity are restricted. Complementary medicine as part of integrative medicine offers additional effective treatment options. RESEARCH QUESTION Complementary therapies that extend the guideline recommendations, demonstrate clinical evidence and/or are plausible are presented. RESULTS Mind-body medicine procedures (mindfulness, relaxation, yoga, Qi Gong, etc.) support the patient's self-efficacy and stimulate the vagus nerve as well as promoting the reduction of pain, depression and anxiety and improving quality of life. Phytotherapeutics such as turmeric or stinging nettle have an anti-inflammatory effect. Water treatments reduce pain, and acupuncture and neural therapy can be tried. CONCLUSIONS Integrative, complementary medical therapy options support the CRPS patient in coping with their disease and the related pain. These options can play an important role in the multimodal, interdisciplinary treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Gabriel
- Klinik für Naturheilkunde & Integrative Medizin, KEM | Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Am Deimelsberg 34a, 45276, Essen, Deutschland.
| | - P Klose
- Klinik für Naturheilkunde & Integrative Medizin, KEM | Evang. Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Am Deimelsberg 34a, 45276, Essen, Deutschland
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Harnik MA, Kesselring P, Ott A, Urman RD, Luedi MM. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and the Value of Early Detection. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2023; 27:417-427. [PMID: 37410335 PMCID: PMC10462545 DOI: 10.1007/s11916-023-01124-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The goal of this narrative review is to describe the current understanding of the pathology of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), as well as diagnostic standards and therapeutic options. We will then make the case for early recognition and management. RECENT FINDINGS CRPS remains an enigmatic pain syndrome, comprising several subtypes. Recent recommendations clarify diagnostic ambiguities and emphasize the importance of standardized assessment and therapy. Awareness of CRPS should be raised to promote prevention, early detection, and rapid escalation of therapy in refractory cases. Comorbidities and health costs (i.e., the socioeconomic impact) must also be addressed early to prevent negative consequences for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Alexander Harnik
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Kesselring
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Ott
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Richard D. Urman
- Department of Anaesthesiology, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210 USA
| | - Markus M. Luedi
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
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Daoust R, Paquet J, Chauny JM, Williamson D, Huard V, Arbour C, Emond M, Rouleau D, Cournoyer A. Impact of vitamin C on the reduction of opioid consumption after an emergency department visit for acute musculoskeletal pain: a double-blind randomised control trial protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e069230. [PMID: 37225265 PMCID: PMC10230879 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent evidence has shown that vitamin C has some analgesic properties in addition to its antioxidant effect and can, therefore, reduce opioid use during recovery time. Vitamin C analgesic effect has been explored mostly during short-term postoperative context or in disease-specific chronic pain prevention, but never after acute musculoskeletal injuries, which are often seen in the emergency department (ED). The protocol's primary aim is to compare the total morphine 5 mg pills consumed during a 2-week follow-up between patients receiving vitamin C or a placebo after ED discharge for an acute musculoskeletal pain complaint. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a two-centre double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial with 464 participants distributed in two arms, one group receiving 1000 mg of vitamin C two times a day for 14 days and another one receiving a placebo. Participants will be ≥18 years of age, treated in ED for acute musculoskeletal pain present for less than 2 weeks and discharged with an opioid prescription for home pain management. Total morphine 5 mg pills consumed during the 2-week follow-up will be assessed via an electronic (or paper) diary. In addition, patients will report their daily pain intensity, pain relief, side effects and other types of pain medication or other non-pharmacological approach used. Three months after the injury, participants will also be contacted to evaluate chronic pain development. We hypothesised that vitamin C, compared with a placebo, will reduce opioid consumption during a 14-day follow-up for ED discharged patients treated for acute musculoskeletal pain. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has received approval from the Ethics Review Committee from the 'Comité d'éthique de la recherche du CIUSSS du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal (No 2023-2442)'. Findings will be disseminated through scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journal publication. The data sets generated during the study will be available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05555576 ClinicalTrials.Gov PRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raoul Daoust
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Study Center in Emergency Medicine, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean Paquet
- Study Center in Emergency Medicine, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Marc Chauny
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Study Center in Emergency Medicine, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Williamson
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Vérilibe Huard
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Study Center in Emergency Medicine, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Caroline Arbour
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Faculté des sciences infirmières, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marcel Emond
- Department of Family and Emergency Medicine, Universite Laval, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Dominique Rouleau
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alexis Cournoyer
- Département de Médecine Familiale et de Médecine d'Urgence, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Study Center in Emergency Medicine, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal Centre de Recherche, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche, Hopital du Sacre-Coeur de Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Melf-Marzi A, Böhringer B, Wiehle M, Hausteiner-Wiehle C. Modern Principles of Diagnosis and Treatment in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. DEUTSCHES ARZTEBLATT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 119:879-886. [PMID: 36482756 PMCID: PMC10011717 DOI: 10.3238/arztebl.m2022.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Background: Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a relatively common complication, occurring in 5% of cases after injury or surgery, particularly in the limbs. The incidence of CPRS is around 5-26/100 000. The latest revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-11) now categorizes CRPS as a primary pain condition of multifactorial origin, rather than a disease of the skeletal system or the autonomic nervous system. METHODS Method: Based on a selective search of the literature, we summarize current principles for the diagnosis and treatment of CRPS. RESULTS Results: Regional findings in CRPS are accompanied by systemic symptoms, especially by neurocognitive disorders of body perception and of symptom processing. The therapeutic focus is shifting from predominantly passive peripheral measures to early active treatments acting both centrally and peripherally. The treatment is centered on physiotherapy and occupational therapy to improve sensory perception, strength, (fine) motor skills, and sensorimotor integration/ body perception. This is supported by stepped psychological interventions to reduce anxiety and avoidance behavior, medication to decrease inflammation and pain, passive physical measures for reduction of edema and of pain, and medical aids to improve functioning in daily life. Interventional procedures should be limited to exceptional cases and only be performed in specialized centers. Spinal cord and dorsal root ganglion stimulation, respectively, are the interventions with the best evidence. CONCLUSION Conclusion: The modern principles for the diagnosis and treatment of CRPS consider both, physiological and psychological mechanisms, with the primary goal of restoring function and participation. More research is needed to strengthen the evidence base in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Melf-Marzi
- Department for BG Rehabilitation; Outpatient CRPS Clinic; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Department for Anesthesiology, Intensive Care Medicine and Pain Therapy; Multimodal Pain Therapy; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Department for Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology and Stroke Unit; BG Trauma Center Murnau; Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich
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