Neurological
Medicines for Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
A condition causing severe, persistent pain in a limb — often after an injury — out of proportion to the original problem, with skin and other changes, helped by early rehabilitation.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)?
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition in which a person develops severe, persistent pain in a part of the body — usually an arm, hand, leg or foot — that is much worse and longer-lasting than would be expected, often after an injury (such as a fracture, sprain or operation), though sometimes with no clear trigger. As well as intense, often burning pain, the affected area can show changes such as swelling, changes in skin colour and temperature, sweating, sensitivity so that even light touch is painful (allodynia), changes in hair and nail growth, and stiffness and reduced use of the limb.
- How it is treated: CRPS is best managed early and with a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach focused on keeping the limb moving and reducing pain.
- Self-care: Keeping the affected limb gently moving and using it as much as possible (guided by physiotherapy), following the rehabilitation and desensitisation programme, pacing activity, and psychological support for coping all help.
- When to seek help: See a GP about severe, persistent limb pain out of proportion to an injury, especially with swelling, skin colour or temperature changes, or extreme sensitivity to touch — early recognition and treatment improve outcomes.
What it is
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a condition in which a person develops severe, persistent pain in a part of the body — usually an arm, hand, leg or foot — that is much worse and longer-lasting than would be expected, often after an injury (such as a fracture, sprain or operation), though sometimes with no clear trigger. As well as intense, often burning pain, the affected area can show changes such as swelling, changes in skin colour and temperature, sweating, sensitivity so that even light touch is painful (allodynia), changes in hair and nail growth, and stiffness and reduced use of the limb. The exact cause is not fully understood but involves abnormal responses in the nerves and nervous system. It can be very distressing and disabling, and early recognition and treatment give the best outcomes, as delay can make it harder to treat.
How it is treated
CRPS is best managed early and with a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach focused on keeping the limb moving and reducing pain. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are central — encouraging gradual use and movement of the affected limb, desensitisation, and rehabilitation — as keeping the limb active helps prevent stiffness and worsening. Pain is managed with specific medicines for nerve pain and other approaches, and psychological support helps people cope with severe, persistent pain and its impact. Specialist pain services often coordinate care, and a range of additional treatments may be used for more difficult cases. Education and support are important, given how distressing it can be. Because early treatment improves the chances of recovery, CRPS should be recognised and treated promptly. Many people improve, particularly with early, active rehabilitation.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Keeping the affected limb gently moving and using it as much as possible (guided by physiotherapy), following the rehabilitation and desensitisation programme, pacing activity, and psychological support for coping all help. Early, active treatment gives the best outcomes.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP about severe, persistent limb pain out of proportion to an injury, especially with swelling, skin colour or temperature changes, or extreme sensitivity to touch — early recognition and treatment improve outcomes.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): frequently asked questions
What triggers complex regional pain syndrome?
It often follows an injury such as a fracture, sprain or operation, though sometimes there is no clear trigger. The pain and other changes are much worse and longer-lasting than expected, from abnormal responses in the nervous system.
Can CRPS be treated?
Yes, and early treatment gives the best outcomes. A coordinated approach centred on physiotherapy to keep the limb moving, pain management, and psychological support helps many people improve. Prompt recognition is important.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Complex regional pain syndrome
- Royal College of Physicians — CRPS guidance
Related conditions
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