Complex regional pain syndrome

Practice development enables the practitioner to develop their knowledge and allow the application of evidence based care for patients. It happens within the practitioner's own clinical practice area and enhances personal and professional growth whilst focusing on patients' specific needs. This is important with a condition such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), with patients seekingaccurate and timely diagnosis and coping strategies to support them in everyday activities. This article aims to provide the practitioner with an overview of CRPS, including some information that can be used in identifying signs and symptoms of the condition to support a diagnosis. There is also an introduction to brain retraining techniques which are used in CRPS rehabilitation to restore as much physical function to the patient as possible along with restoration of body perception and ownership of the limb.