If you’ve been diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) after a work-related injury, you may be entitled to lifetime workers’ compensation benefits under Georgia law. At The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins in Augusta, we represent injured workers across Georgia who are dealing with chronic pain, disability, and uncertainty – especially when facing the long-term challenges of CRPS.
CRPS is not just pain. It’s a debilitating condition that can result in permanent impairment, reduced mobility, and even the inability to work. If your CRPS stems from a workplace injury, it may be classified as a catastrophic injury under Georgia workers’ compensation law—potentially qualifying you for lifetime medical and wage benefits.
What Is CRPS?
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is a chronic nerve condition that typically affects a limb after an injury, surgery, or trauma. While the exact cause isn’t always clear, CRPS results in intense, persistent pain that can far exceed the severity of the original injury.
Common symptoms include:
- Burning or throbbing pain
- Swelling or stiffness
- Temperature and color changes in the affected limb
- Sensitivity to touch
- Muscle spasms or weakness
- Limited range of motion
There are two types of CRPS:
- Type I (no confirmed nerve damage)
- Type II (with confirmed nerve injury)
Both types can lead to severe and ongoing disability.
Facts and Stats About CRPS
- An estimated 200,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with CRPS each year.
- CRPS most commonly follows injuries such as fractures, sprains, or surgical trauma.
- Studies show that early diagnosis and treatment improve long-term outcomes, but many cases result in chronic, lifelong pain.
When Is CRPS Considered a Catastrophic Injury in Georgia?
In Georgia, a “catastrophic injury” under workers’ compensation law includes conditions that prevent you from performing any gainful employment. If your CRPS severely limits your ability to use an arm, hand, leg, or foot—and prevents you from returning to work—you may be eligible for lifetime benefits.
According to O.C.G.A. § 34-9-200.1(g), injuries that are deemed catastrophic may entitle the injured worker to:
- Lifetime weekly income benefits
- Lifetime medical treatment coverage
- Vocational rehabilitation services
This designation can make a massive difference in your financial and medical future, particularly if your condition is expected to worsen or persist indefinitely.
Proving CRPS and Catastrophic Injury
One of the biggest challenges in CRPS cases is proving the extent and impact of the condition. Because CRPS is a “hidden” injury, it may not show up on X-rays or MRIs, which can make insurance carriers skeptical. This is why having an experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorney is critical.
At The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, we work with top medical experts and specialists to:
- Document your diagnosis and medical treatment
- Establish the work-related cause of your CRPS
- Demonstrate how the condition affects your daily life and work ability
- Fight for catastrophic injury status to secure maximum benefits
Why Choose Bryan S. Hawkins?
Attorney Bryan S. Hawkins is a former insurance defense lawyer who now fights exclusively for injured workers. He knows how the system works from both sides—and how to build a strong case to support lifetime benefits.
We proudly serve injured workers across Augusta, Evans, Martinez, Grovetown, and throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA).
Get the Help You Deserve
If you’re suffering from CRPS after a workplace accident, don’t let the insurance company dismiss your pain or deny your future. You may be entitled to lifetime workers’ compensation benefits, but it takes skilled legal representation to make that case.
Contact The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins in Augusta, GA, today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the medical care, income benefits, and long-term security you need.
Your recovery is our priority – now and for the future.
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