Complex regional pain syndrome

Advise patients to try to keep the affected limb active and to mobilise it as much as they can (to preserve function and prevent the development of complications). Adequate analgesia is important to help them achieve this.

If opioid treatment is being considered for intractable pain that has not responded to other therapies, discuss with the patient the realistic benefits and known risks of opioid therapy, work with them to establish treatment goals for pain and function, and explain that opioid therapy will be discontinued if benefits do not outweigh risks.[70]Dowell D, Ragan KR, Jones CM, et al. CDC clinical practice guideline for prescribing opioids for pain - United States, 2022. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2022 Nov 4;71(3):1-95. https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/rr/rr7103a1.htm?s_cid=rr7103a1_w http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36327391?tool=bestpractice.com ​

The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association is a useful source of information and support for patients with CRPS. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association Opens in new window Other online resources may also be useful. NHS Choices: complex regional pain syndrome Opens in new window