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.