Options For Treating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the process of using low-voltage electric currents for pain treatment. Many individuals are familiar with a TENS unit, which can be found at most drugstores. It delivers an electrical current to the nervous system through patches on the skin, which is thought to help with muscle and nerve pain. Most patients can use TENS units at home, though they should be instructed by their healthcare provider in how to use them first. A healthcare provider can adjust the machine's settings to make sure they deliver the best pain relief in the safest way possible. These units work by interrupting the connection between the nerves and the brain. They stop pain receptors from sending signals to the brain.

Bone-Loss Medication

A doctor might prescribe bone-loss medications to prevent loss of bone or stall the progression of bone loss. Two of the most common medications are calcitonin and alendronate. Calcitonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body. It is produced by the thyroid gland and essential for the regulation of potassium and calcium levels. Artificial calcitonin might help increase a patient's calcium and potassium levels, which can strengthen the bones and prevent bone loss. Alendronate is a medication that slows bone loss, and it's part of the bisphosphonate class of drugs. Medications for bone loss are used when complex regional pain syndrome is related to changes in bone structure. Doctors might do a bone scan to find bone changes.