I've been diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome type I. My doctor seems to have tried everything for the pain--corticosteroids, anesthetics, physical therapy, and even counseling. Is there any hope for relief of my pain?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type I can be a frustrating condition. Doctors remain uncertain about the causes and best treatment for the problem. The treatments you describe are all commonly used.

One recent case study of a man injured in a fork-lift accident suggested that capsaicin may help. Capsaicin is derived from chili peppers and is a widely used analgesic. However, its use for treating CRPS I was new. The doctor reported that the patient improved under treatment twice per day at a .075 percent dosage. Although this was only a single case and use of capsaicin for treating CRPS I requires more study, you might want to talk with your doctor about trying it.

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