Nerve Block + Physiotherapy for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Tracy Cupido

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This trial aims to test a new treatment for adults with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a severe chronic pain condition. The treatment involves an injection near the shoulder to block pain signals, followed by a program of physical exercises. Researchers hope this combination will be more effective than exercises alone in reducing pain and improving function.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 18 with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in the upper extremity who can consent to treatment. It's not suitable for those allergic to local anesthetics or chlorhexidine, have an infection at the injection site, had regional anesthesia for CRPS within 6 months, cannot tolerate anesthesia or physiotherapy, have another pain condition affecting the same limb, or cannot consent.

Inclusion Criteria

Able to consent to treatment

Meets the Budapest criteria for CRPS of the upper extremity

I am 18 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

Allergy to chlorhexidine

Allergy to local anesthetic

I have an infection where I was injected.

+4 more

Participant Groups

The study is testing if a single-shot axillary brachial plexus block combined with physiotherapy is more effective than just physiotherapy alone in treating CRPS. The goal is to see if this new approach improves pain and function better than current treatments.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Axillary Brachial Plexus Block plus PhysiotherapyExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Participants who are randomized to the experimental group (EXP arm) will receive a single-shot axillary-approach brachial plexus block with 1.5mg/kg (up to 50mg total) bupivacaine 0.25% at the Kingston Health Sciences Centre Chronic Pain Clinic (KHSC-CPC). Prior to treatment, a blinded third party will perform a baseline physical exam. Under the brachial plexus block, the physiotherapist will provide standard of care, including manual therapy. The patient will then complete a 6-week physiotherapy program, including GMI. Following the 6 week program, a blind observer will repeat the physical exam.

Group II: Physiotherapy aloneActive Control1 Intervention

Participants who are randomized to not receive a block (CON arm) will also have a baseline physical exam performed by a blinded third party. Following baseline data collection, the physiotherapist will provide standard of care, including manual therapy. They will then complete a 6-week home exercise program, including GMI. Following the 6 week program, a blinded observer will repeat the physical exam.