What Is CRPS and Why Does My Foot Hurt So Much?

Why Does My Foot Still Hurt?

If you’ve had an injury to your foot or ankle—maybe a sprain, break, or even surgery—and you’re still in pain weeks or months later, you might be wondering:

“Why is this hurting so much?”
“Why does even a light touch feel unbearable?”
“Why does my foot look swollen or change colour?”

You could be dealing with something called CRPS, or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

What Is CRPS?

CRPS is a condition where the nervous system becomes overly sensitive after an injury. It’s like the nerves in your foot are stuck in overdrive—sending pain signals even when there’s no danger or damage anymore.

It usually starts in one limb (often the foot or ankle) and can be triggered by a simple injury. Even something as small as a sprain, fracture, or operation can set it off.

Common Symptoms of CRPS in the Foot

CRPS can show up in different ways, but here are some common signs:

• Burning, sharp, or deep pain in the foot or ankle

• Swelling or puffiness

• Skin that feels hot, cold, or sweaty

• Changes in skin colour (red, purple, pale)

• Extreme sensitivity to touch or temperature

• Stiffness or reduced movement

• Weakness or changes in walking

Sometimes, even the touch of a sock or the brush of air can feel like too much.

What Causes It?

Doctors aren’t exactly sure why some people get CRPS and others don’t. But we do know:

• It often follows an injury or surgery

• It’s linked to overactive nerves

• It may involve poor blood flow and inflammation

It’s not "all in your head." The pain is very real—and it needs the right kind of care.

How a Podiatrist Can Help

At Coventry Foot Doctor, we’ve seen patients who’ve been living with unexplained foot pain, unsure of what’s wrong. CRPS is one of those conditions that requires early recognition and the right approach.

Here’s what we can do:

Full Foot and Nerve Assessment

We’ll check your sensation, temperature response, blood flow, and how you walk.

Pain Management Tools

Depending on your symptoms, we may use:

• Laser therapy

• Desensitisation therapy

• Protective orthotics

• Activity guidance to avoid flare-ups

Help You Get the Right Support

CRPS is best managed by a team. If needed, we’ll refer you to pain specialists or work with your GP to create a full plan.

Don’t Wait—The Sooner, the Better

The earlier CRPS is caught and treated, the better the outcome. If you’re dealing with pain that just doesn’t make sense—or if your foot is sensitive, swollen, or changing in strange ways—please don’t wait.

Getting help early can stop the pain from getting worse and improve your chances of recovery.

Ready to Find Out What’s Really Causing the Pain?

We’re here to listen, assess, and guide you with compassion and care. Let’s work together to get your foot back on track.