Insertion of Subdermal Hormonal Implant May Trigger Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Case Report

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a severe pain condition that is often incited by minor physical trauma to the site involved. We present the first reported case of CRPS developing in the upper extremity of an adolescent female who received routine subdermal contraceptive implant insertion. While this is an uncommon occurrence, practitioners should be aware of the potential for implant insertion to precipitate CRPS, as early recognition of CRPS and referral for multidisciplinary treatment of CRPS improves the likelihood of symptom resolution. Adolescents and young adults in particular may have the potential for earlier resolution of CRPS symptoms but may also be at higher risk of recurrence; therefore, they should be followed longitudinally. In patients with a known history of CRPS, providers may consider involving a pain management consultant before inserting or removing a hormonal implant.