When Injuries result in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSC), refers to a condition involving debilitating chronic pain, muscle atrophy, and loss of dexterity due to complications that arise after an injury. While CRPS most commonly affects the arms and legs, it appears to be a serious neurological condition that can take weeks or months to develop after an injury. Since injury victims are not always aware they have -- or will develop -- CRPS, insurance companies rarely, if ever, take medical costs associated with CRPS into account when settling a claim. At the personal injury law office of Cogan & McNabola, P.C., our attorneys understand the etiology and presentation of CRPS. We understand the costs associated with treating CRPS, as well as the financial consequences it can have on a person's ability to return to work.
If you have been diagnosed with CRPS or are experiencing symptoms associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, contact Cook County personal injury lawyer at Cogan & McNabola today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
Symptoms associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
While it's important to remember that each person is different, if you experience any of the following symptoms you should consult your doctor to determine if you have CRPS:
- A change in skin color around the injury, red, blue, or white patches.
- The area around an injury may be tender and shiny
- Extreme sensitivity of the skin around an injury
- The skin around an injury may alternate between clamminess and sweatiness
- Muscle spasms, weakness, or atrophy
- Stiffness and swelling of the joints
- Loss of dexterity, inability to move without effort or pain
Insurance Companies and CRPS
While CRPS is now more widely recognized in the medical community than it was just ten years ago, insurance companies are not always willing to take the pain and suffering it involves into account when settling claims. As for-profit businesses, insurance companies are interested in reducing the amount they have to pay in claims. As a result, they employ a number of tactics to control and reduce their costs. In the case of CRPS, an insurance company may request that you be examined by one of their doctors. Or, one of their medical experts may argue that your complications are due in part to a pre-existing condition or lack of proper care on the part of your doctor.
Why It's Important to Hire an Experience CRPS Attorney
Due to the sometimes controversial nature of a CRPS diagnosis and the medical issues involved, it's important to work with personal injury attorneys who have experience in preparing and trying CRPS cases. At Cogan & McNabola, we've represented numerous people suffering from CRPS. We understand the medical issues and understand how to work with medical economists in quantifying the short and long-term costs associated with CRPS.
To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact Chicago, Illinois, complex regional pain syndrome attorneys at Cogan & McNabola today.
