CRPS - Compensation for complex regional pain syndrome

In our day-to-day work as personal injury lawyers, we meet clients who have developed many different types of disorders and injuries. One of the most troubled client groups is probably those affected by complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS - Complex Regional Pain Syndrome). Our goal for these clients is that they receive compensation that, as far as possible, gives them fair compensation.

Diagnosis and treatment

CRPS is a disease that goes by many names, including reflex dystrophy or also by some «the suicide disease», as some unfortunately cannot bear to live with such pain. This is a rare, chronic diagnosis that normally occurs in a limited area of the body. The disease usually develops after a trauma, such as surgery, fractures or crushing injuries. The pain experienced by the victim is often an intense, burning or aching pain as well as other ailments.

It's important to get the right diagnosis. The diagnosis is often made using the so-called The Budapest criteria. These include the person experiencing persistent pain that is disproportionately strong or long-lasting in relation to the trauma, and that the person has some typical symptoms. These may include, for example, colour changes in the skin, temperature differences, increased hair growth, increased sweating, abnormally high sensitivity to pain, or discomfort even when lightly touched.

It is important that the injured party is examined by someone with expertise in the area, as many doctors have little or no knowledge of this disease. Here, the injured party's lawyer can often contribute with their knowledge of specialists.

Although the disease is chronic, there are several treatments that are perceived as pain-relieving. These may include physiotherapy, drug treatment or similar. You may want to visit the hospital's pain clinic to try out what works for the individual. Diagnosis and treatment at an early stage is also important in order to prevent worsening and possible spread of the pain.

Measurement of compensation

As with any compensable injury, it's important to make sure you get the right compensation. In the case of CRPS, there are certain compensation items that you may want to be extra aware of.

If the injured party is diagnosed with CRPS, the diagnosis can usually result in a high medical disability (VMI) because the pain condition often has a major impact on how the person functions in daily life. The person may therefore be entitled to higher compensation than others who struggle with pain after injury.

CRPS can also lead to increased expenses due to treatments and medication. In some cases, these are lifelong expenses. Some people may also need personal assistance and adaptations to improve their quality of life. These types of increased expenses can usually be included in the compensation settlement.

Get in touch

If you are struggling with chronic pain, it may be a good idea to have the assistance of a personal injury lawyer in your efforts to get the right compensation. The personal injury lawyers at Halvorsen & Co are happy to assist you in this process.

Last updated: 27.05.2022