Chicago CRPS Attorney

Chicago Lawyers Fighting for CPRS Victims

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our CRPS attorney team stands up for individuals suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome after serious injuries. We understand how this condition can derail a person’s life, especially when the pain is intense, long-lasting, and resistant to treatment. Our firm is based in Chicago and has helped clients across Cook County recover compensation for medical bills, lost income, and the emotional toll of living with this chronic condition. 

If your CRPS was caused by a car accident, fall, or another traumatic event, our catastrophic injury attorneys in Chicago are ready to help you pursue justice and financial relief through every stage of the legal process.

CRPS Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our experienced personal injury lawyers have successfully represented clients suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) and other severe, life-altering injuries.

$12,000,000 Settlement – Surgical Error Leads to Brain Injury and Amputation

Lucia, a Chicago resident in her 50s, underwent cardiothoracic surgery at a major hospital. Postoperative complications, including a delay in diagnosing poor blood flow, led to a severe brain injury and the eventual amputation of her lower leg. Her case value was influenced by the extent of her permanent disabilities, future medical needs, and loss of independence. We worked with top medical experts to establish how surgical negligence caused life-altering harm, ultimately recovering $12 million.

$7,000,000 Recovery – Machine Malfunction Severed Worker’s Hand

James, a skilled press operator from Cicero, was working on a factory floor when a defective punch press crushed and amputated his dominant hand. The investigation revealed the machine’s safety mechanism had failed and that the employer had failed to provide proper safeguards. The case value reflected his permanent disability, need for prosthetics, and loss of earning capacity. The $7 million settlement helped James cover medical expenses and regain financial security.

$5,250,000 Settlement – Motorcyclist Loses Leg in Intersection Crash

Tyler, a 38-year-old motorcyclist, was hit by a car making a sudden left turn at a busy Chicago intersection. The collision crushed his leg, ultimately requiring amputation above the knee. He later developed severe complications, including unrelenting pain suggestive of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. The $5.25 million recovery accounted for his long-term medical treatment, mobility challenges, and emotional trauma.

Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

Our top-rated CRPS attorney team leads Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers with deep experience representing clients suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome after traumatic injuries. With a perfect 10/10 rating on Avvo, our firm has recovered over $500 million for injury victims across Illinois. 

It has also been recognized for excellence in personal injury law by Super Lawyers. If you’ve been diagnosed with CRPS, our attorneys are prepared to guide you through the legal process, hold the at-fault party accountable, and pursue the compensation you need for ongoing care, lost income, and pain management.

Types of Accidents Our Law Firm Handles That Lead to CRPS Cases

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can develop after trauma to the nerves, soft tissue, or bones, often the result of someone else’s negligence. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers handle a wide range of cases where serious injuries evolve into this chronic pain condition.

Car Accidents

CRPS often develops after a car crash involving broken bones, nerve trauma, or soft tissue injuries. Our top-rated Chicago car accident attorneys help crash victims pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain, and long-term disability linked to this chronic pain condition.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Falls on icy sidewalks, broken steps, or poorly maintained walkways can lead to fractures or ligament damage that trigger CRPS. Our Chicago premises liability lawyers hold negligent property owners accountable when unsafe conditions result in severe and lasting injuries.

Workplace Injuries

Construction accidents, repetitive strain, and heavy lifting can cause nerve damage and CRPS. Our Chicago workers’ compensation team helps injured workers file for workers’ compensation and pursue third-party claims if job site safety failures played a role.

Medical Malpractice

Surgical errors, nerve blocks, or poorly performed injections can cause CRPS. Our Chicago medical malpractice lawyers represent patients harmed by negligent doctors, nurses, or hospitals, helping them recover for the physical and emotional toll of this chronic condition.

Defective Products

Malfunctioning surgical tools, implants, construction equipment, or workplace machinery can cause nerve damage that triggers CRPS. Our Chicago product liability attorneys pursue claims against manufacturers whose dangerous products contribute to long-term pain and disability.

Common Symptoms and Stages of CRPS

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition that usually develops after an injury. It affects the sympathetic nervous system and causes persistent, often severe pain in an affected limb, accompanied by a variety of sensory, motor, and skin changes.

Stage 1 (Acute): The Onset of Burning Pain and Swelling

This stage begins shortly after the initial injury. Symptoms include burning or stinging pain, swelling, sensitivity to touch, skin temperature changes, and limited movement in the affected limb. Early diagnosis and treatment during this stage may help reverse or reduce long-term damage.

Stage 2 (Dystrophic): Worsening Chronic Pain and Physical Changes

Pain often becomes more constant and intense. The affected limb may stiffen, hair growth can change, and the skin may become cooler or discolored. Muscle weakness and joint stiffness also begin to develop, requiring targeted pain management and physical therapy.

Stage 3 (Atrophic): Spreading Pain and Potential Permanent Damage

By this stage, pain can spread beyond the initial injury site. The affected area may experience muscle atrophy, joint deformities, and loss of function. Without timely intervention, the condition may cause irreversible damage and permanent disability in the affected body part.

What Damages Can CRPS Victims Recover in a Chicago Personal Injury Case?

Victims of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) often face long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. In a Chicago personal injury case, you may be entitled to compensation for the following losses related to your diagnosis, treatment, and the impact on your daily life.

Medical Expenses

CRPS victims may recover compensation for all medical costs related to the condition. This includes hospital visits, specialist care, physical therapy, spinal cord stimulation, nerve blocks, pain medication, and long-term treatment like internal pain pumps or psychological support for managing chronic pain.

Lost Wages

If CRPS limits your ability to work or forces you to change careers, you can seek damages for lost wages and future earning capacity. Victims often require extended time off work or leave their jobs entirely due to ongoing pain or disability in the affected limb.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for the emotional and physical toll of CRPS. These may include compensation for chronic pain, reduced quality of life, depression, anxiety, and the daily limitations caused by muscle atrophy, mobility issues, or severe sensitivity in the affected area.

What Is the Average Payout for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average payout for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) cases is $3,535,156, with a median of $2,140,027. These figures come from a broad value range, starting as low as $3,231 and reaching up to $13,003,023.

Several factors influence CRPS case values:

• Severity and duration of pain
• Extent of disability or functional loss in the affected limb or body part
• Need for ongoing treatment, including spinal cord stimulators, internal pain pumps, or nerve blocks
• Impact on the claimant’s ability to work or earn future income
• Quality of medical documentation and expert testimony
• Delay in diagnosis or treatment, which can complicate causation arguments
• Presence of third-party liability, such as in car accidents or defective product claims

Higher payouts are typically seen in cases involving permanent disability, long-term care needs, and clear evidence linking the CRPS to a traumatic or negligent event.

Example CRPS Cases in Cook County

$10 Million Jury Verdict – CRPS Diagnosed After Grocery Store Delivery Accident

Sherri Miyagi, a 53-year-old dentist, developed CRPS in both legs after being struck by a 350-pound dolly at a Walgreens in Lincolnwood. Initially diagnosed with a right leg contusion, her condition progressed into complex regional pain syndrome. She experienced persistent, debilitating pain that impacted her mobility, career, and personal life. The defense challenged the CRPS diagnosis and claimed opioid-induced hyperalgesia. A jury disagreed, awarding $10 million, including $7.3 million for future medical costs.

$6 Million Settlement – Pedestrian Run Over by Bus Develops Severe CRPS

Amy Koplin, 25, was struck by a CTA bus while legally crossing at a crosswalk downtown. Her feet were crushed, requiring multiple surgeries. She was later diagnosed with severe CRPS and underwent spinal cord stimulation and ketamine infusions. The CTA did not dispute her diagnosis or treatment needs. The case settled for $6 million, reportedly the largest Illinois settlement for a primary CRPS claim at the time.

$3.85 Million Settlement – Skid-Steer Loader Crash Leads to CRPS and Career-Ending Injury

Raul Nunez, a Waste Management worker, was pinned by a skid-steer loader during a municipal cleanup in Oak Park. He suffered a fractured pelvis and later developed CRPS, requiring a spinal stimulator. Nunez’s injuries left him unable to work and dependent on a cane. He sued the equipment lessor over a faulty backup alarm and settled for $3.85 million, which included claims for medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.

Why You Need an Experienced CRPS Lawyer

CRPS cases are medically and legally complex, often requiring detailed proof of confirmed nerve damage and a clear connection to the initial injury. Insurance companies may dispute the diagnosis or argue that the pain is exaggerated, especially when symptoms seem disproportionate to the original injury. An experienced CRPS lawyer understands how to present medical records, expert testimony, and diagnostic evidence to support your claim. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we’ve handled cases in Cook County Circuit Court and other local venues where defense attorneys aggressively challenge these claims. We build strong cases designed to prove the full impact of CRPS and secure full compensation.

CRPS Statistics

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can affect people of all ages but is more common in women and typically develops around age 40. It’s rarely diagnosed in young children or older adults.

Recovery from CRPS can vary widely.

While many people see significant improvement within months or a few years, outcomes aren’t always predictable. Studies show that about three-quarters of individuals eventually regain full or near-full function. However, roughly 15% experience ongoing moderate impairment, and around 10% are left with severe long-term disability. If symptoms continue untreated for a year or more, up to half of the patients may suffer lasting damage.

Research suggests that persistent pain and reduced motor function are the most common long-term effects of CRPS, affecting more than half of patients after one year. Some patients show grip strength declines between 25% and 66%, along with a 20%–25% loss in joint mobility. These physical limitations are often tied to difficulties in daily activities and social functioning. Additionally, between 30% and 40% of CRPS patients are unable to return to work, and many others need job modifications to stay employed.

What Illinois Laws Govern CRPS Personal Injury Claims? 

Illinois’ Comparative Negligence Law (735 ILCS 5/2-1116) allows injury victims to recover damages even if they were partially at fault, so long as they are less than 51% responsible. The compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.

If CRPS develops from a job-related injury, the Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305) provides benefits like medical care, wage replacement, and disability payments. It applies regardless of fault.

How Long Do I Have to File a CRPS Lawsuit in Illinois?

In Illinois, CRPS victims typically have two years from the date of the injury or diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit under the Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury (735 ILCS 5/13-202). Failing to file within this time may bar you from recovering compensation for your condition.

Who Is Legally Liable for an Injury Leading to CRPS?

Legal liability for injuries that lead to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) depends on how the initial injury occurred. If the medical condition developed after a car accident, the at-fault driver may be held responsible. In slip and fall incidents, property owners who failed to maintain safe conditions can be liable. Employers and workers’ compensation insurers may be responsible if the injury happened at work. In medical malpractice cases, negligent doctors or hospitals could face legal claims. Manufacturers of defective tools or medical devices that caused nerve damage may also be held accountable. Each situation requires a thorough investigation to determine liability.

Common Defenses Insurance Companies Use in CRPS Cases

In CRPS cases, insurance companies often argue that the condition is psychosomatic, exaggerated, or unrelated to the initial injury. They may claim the symptoms stem from a pre-existing condition or that the plaintiff is not following medical advice. We push back with strong medical records, expert testimony from neurologists and pain management specialists, and documentation showing the timeline between the injury and onset of CRPS symptoms. We also highlight the visible physical signs and diagnostic criteria to validate the medical condition. Our legal team challenges attempts to downplay the severity or deny causation to help clients recover the compensation they deserve.

How to Strengthen Your CRPS Claim in Chicago

If you’ve been diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) after an injury in Chicago, taking the proper steps early on can make a significant difference in your case. First, follow all medical advice and attend every appointment. CRPS cases often hinge on consistent medical documentation, so it’s critical to keep records of your diagnosis, early treatment, medications, and symptoms. You should also notify your employer if the injury was work-related and consult a doctor who specializes in pain management or neurological disorders. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters without legal guidance. Early involvement of a CRPS lawyer can help ensure your claim includes expert medical testimony, establishes the connection between your injury and CRPS, and counters any efforts by insurers to deny or delay compensation. Keep a journal of your pain levels, emotional impact, and limitations in daily life. These personal details can support your claim for both economic and non-economic damages.

How a Chicago CRPS Lawyer Can Help During the Legal Process

A Chicago CRPS lawyer provides critical support throughout your legal claim. From the start, they gather medical records, secure expert testimony, and document the extent of your CRPS diagnosis. Because insurance companies often dispute the severity of chronic pain conditions, your attorney will work to connect your symptoms to the original injury and build a case that demonstrates the actual impact on your life. They’ll handle all negotiations with insurers and defense attorneys, ensuring you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement. If needed, they’ll represent you in court, fighting for full compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain.

Chicago Complex Regional Pain Syndrome FAQs

How much does a CRPS lawyer cost?

Most CRPS lawyers, including those at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront. Your attorney only collects a fee if they recover compensation on your behalf, typically a percentage of your settlement or verdict.

Is CRPS considered a permanent disability in Illinois?

CRPS can qualify as a permanent disability if it causes lasting limitations in movement, strength, or daily function. In severe cases, it may prevent full-time work. If documented properly, CRPS victims may be eligible for long-term disability benefits or compensation through a personal injury or workers’ compensation claim.

Is CRPS a mental condition?

No, CRPS is a neurological disorder, not a mental illness. While it can cause emotional distress due to prolonged pain, its root cause lies in the nervous system. The condition results in abnormal pain signals, swelling, and physical changes in the affected limb or area.

How is CRPS diagnosed?

CRPS is diagnosed by healthcare providers through clinical examination, patient history, and by ruling out other conditions. Tests like bone scans, MRI, and nerve conduction studies may support the diagnosis. A pain management specialist may also assess other symptoms such as skin color and skin texture changes and sensitivity.

Can I still file a claim if my CRPS diagnosis was delayed?

Yes, you may still have a valid legal claim. CRPS is often diagnosed after symptoms worsen, especially following an accident or injury. As long as your claim is filed within the legal time limits, a delayed diagnosis will not bar you from seeking compensation.

Can I be compensated for an internal pain pump as part of my CRPS treatment?

Yes. If an internal pain pump or other treatments like spinal cord stimulation, nerve blocks, physical or other therapy to block pain signals, or medication are prescribed as part of your CRPS care, compensation may cover those costs. Your lawyer can include these expenses in your claim for medical damages.

Book a Free Consultation with an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Chicago!

If you or a loved one is suffering from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome caused by someone else’s negligence, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the lasting impact of CRPS and will fight to secure the compensation you deserve. 

We work on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. Contact us to schedule your free consultation with a top-rated Chicago CRPS lawyer.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.