The challenge to manage reflex sympathetic dystrophy/complex regional pain syndrome.

The challenge to understand reflex sympathetic dystrophy/complex regional pain syndrome may require a better understanding of the complex relationship between the central and peripheral nervous systems. There is no comprehensive hypothesis that clearly explains the etiology and no uniformly successful treatment method. This brief summary of the challenge reviews some of what is known, hypothesizes a possible etiologic mechanism, and proposes 10 common-sense principles for management that recognizes the handicap of limited knowledge.