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Sunday 7 June 2026

Peer Reviewed

Rheumatology clinic

Regional pain syndrome – a disorder of pain sensitisation

Geoffrey O Littlejohn

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Regional pain syndrome – a disorder of pain sensitisation

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Abstract

Early recognition of regional pain syndrome as a disorder of pain sensitisation is needed so patients can be treated effectively.

Key Points

Regional pain syndrome is a common pain syndrome that affects different areas of the body. Typical terms used to describe this syndrome include whiplash, repetitive strain syndrome or nonspecific low back pain. It is often triggered by a musculoskeletal injury or disease. Delayed or missed diagnosis is common and has an adverse impact on patient outcome. This article reviews regional pain syndrome and discusses it in the context of related pain syndromes of fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome.