Whole-Body Cryostimulation in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Study.

Background/

Objectives

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating pain condition with complex pathophysiology and limited treatment efficacy. Whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) has shown promising results in other chronic pain syndromes, but no studies to date have examined its use in CRPS. To evaluate the safety, feasibility, and potential benefits of WBC in a female patient with CRPS of the ankle.

Methods

A 65-year-old female outpatient with type I CRPS at the right ankle underwent 15 WBC sessions (3 min at -110 °C) over two weeks, without any concurrent pharmacological or rehabilitative interventions. Assessments at baseline and post-intervention included standardized measures of pain (VAS, SF-MPQ), disability (PDI), catastrophizing (PCS), mobility (TUG, Chair Stand Test), strength and ROM (goniometry, MRC), psychosocial status (SF-36, WHO-5, PSQI, BDI, STAI), and MRI of the right knee and ankle.

Results

Post-treatment, the patient showed substantial improvements in pain (VAS -66.7%, SF-MPQ -51.7%), function (TUG -31.8%), muscle strength, psychological well-being, and quality of life. MRI and edema measurements indicated stabilization or regression of inflammatory features. No adverse effects were reported.

Conclusions

This case suggests that WBC may represent a safe, well-tolerated, non-pharmacological intervention for CRPS, with potential to improve pain, function, and well-being.