What is a primary characteristic of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Type I?

A primary characteristic of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) Type I is the presence of extreme temperature changes in the affected area. This condition often manifests with significant autonomic dysregulation, which can cause the skin to become excessively warm or cold. Temperature alterations may also be accompanied by changes in skin color or texture, highlighting the complex interplay between the nervous system and vascular response in CRPS.

The condition does not typically involve bone fractures, as that pertains more to the history of an injury or trauma rather than CRPS itself. While CRPS can be associated with some nerve damage, in Type I specifically, this is not a defining characteristic, as it generally occurs without identifiable nerve injury. Lastly, while there may be varying degrees of functional limitation, total loss of function is not a standard feature of CRPS Type I, as individuals often retain some level of movement and function in the affected limb.