Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: Permanent Disability?

What Is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)?

What does CRPS stand for, and is CRPS a permanent disability? CRPS, or complex regional pain syndrome, is a condition in which you experience chronic pain that affects an arm or leg. It usually begins after you’ve suffered an injury, and the pain is out of proportion with the severity of the initial harm you sustained.

CRPS is a relatively uncommon condition that is still not fully understood. This is one of the reasons why filing chronic pain injury claims can be so complicated.

Can CRPS Be Considered a Permanent Disability? 

CRPS can be considered a permanent disability if it causes prolonged pain that doesn’t allow you to live your life as you used to. To be seen as a permanent disability, it must significantly impact your life and prevent you from pursuing any type of employment.

What Symptoms and Limitations Can CRPS Cause? 

CRPS symptoms can include:

• Pain from even a slight touch to the affected area.
• Hair and nails that grow differently than before.
• Changes in skin color and texture.
• Persistent swelling of the affected limb.
• Muscle spasms or weakness.
• Skin that feels very hot or cold.

CRPS can limit your mobility and prevent you from performing fine motor tasks. If you experience severe pain, you may avoid using the affected limb. This can lead to muscle atrophy. Bone deterioration is also possible.

Additionally, people who live with chronic pain are more likely to experience depression and anxiety.

How Does CRPS Affect a Person’s Ability To Work? 

This condition causes severe and almost constant pain, along with fatigue and limited mobility. In some instances, cognitive issues can also arise. They are a result of brain fog, which could impair memory and concentration.

Reduced strength in the affected limb limits physical movements, and the severe sensitivity that the condition causes might make even slight changes in temperature unbearably painful.

It becomes impossible to perform any type of work when you’re constantly struggling with pain.

Can You Qualify for Disability Benefits With CRPS?

Yes, you can usually qualify for disability benefits if you have CRPS. Keep in mind, however, that this condition doesn’t have its own listing in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) official Blue Book.

Therefore, you must offer a significant amount of evidence that proves the issue is debilitating enough to keep you from working.

What Evidence Is Needed To Prove a CRPS Disability Claim? 

To prove that you need disability benefits, it’s not enough to rely on a doctor’s note. Instead, you must offer records that show you’ve suffered significant pain for a prolonged period and that the pain is out of proportion with the original injury.

You must also demonstrate changes to your skin, as well as show proof of weakness or involuntary movements. Additionally, you’ll have to provide evidence that you’re receiving consistent medical care.

Can CRPS Result From a Workplace Accident or Personal Injury? 

Yes, CRPS can occur because of a workplace accident or personal injury incident, like a car crash or slip and fall. Trauma is the most common trigger for this condition.

What Compensation May Be Available for Individuals With CRPS? 

If you have developed CRPS because of another party’s misconduct outside of a work setting, you can file a personal injury claim to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

In cases when the injury was the result of a workplace accident, you will usually have to go through your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. You can receive coverage for your lost wages and medical expenses, as well as potential permanent disability benefits.

Even if your injury didn’t occur at work, you can still be eligible for disability benefits that cover your lost wages and earning potential.

How Can Bachus & Schanker Help Individuals Pursue Compensation for CRPS-Related Injuries and Disabilities?

At Bachus & Schanker, we can guide you through the claims process. We begin by gathering as much evidence as possible regarding the injury that triggered chronic pain. This allows us to then calculate your full losses.

Once we know exactly what you experienced and how it affected your life, we can begin negotiating with insurance companies for the type of compensation you deserve.

If you choose to pursue a permanent disability claim, we can make certain that we present clear evidence of the impact the condition has had on your life. Claim denials do occur, but with our experienced team on your side, you have a chance to successfully appeal the outcome.

Vitally, we provide the ongoing support you need to get through this difficult moment in your life. We know how challenging constant pain can be, and we’re here to help.

When Should You Contact Bachus & Schanker About a CRPS Claim?

If you have developed CRPS that prevents you from working, contact the team at Bachus & Schanker. Our team can provide the legal guidance you need.

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