Background: If the pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type 1 remains controversial, most authors agree on a combination in varying proportions, a sensitization of peripheral nerves.
Aim: To describe the state of advances in the physiopathology of complex regional pain syndrome type 1.
Methods: Bibliographic research and literature review performed by referring to databases (Medline, Science Direct)
Results: The physiopathology of complex regional pain syndrome type 1 remains still poorly understood and controversial. Several arguments demonstrated both peripheral (inflammation, abnormal sympathetic ...) and central (neurological and cognitive) mechanisms.
Conclusion: A better knowledge of the physiopathology of complex pain syndrome type 1 is necessary in order to adapt efficient curative therapy or to a better prevention of this syndrome.