Mild to moderate crps- i'm in active pt and go to the gym 4x/week. also use a topical cream. yes it's painful. why do my joints stay stiff?

Consider rheumatolgy: If your joints are truly stiff for many hours (not painful--actually difficult to move) and it is associated with constant swelling, see your regular doctor and ask if a rheumatology referral would be useful. Morning stiffness is a key feature of inflammatory arthritis but if it doesn't get even a little better during the day, then not as likely arthritis. May also need a new physical therapist.