Evidence Checklist: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Clinical documentation of Budapest criteria (pain, sensory, vasomotor, sudomotor, motor/trophic)Critical

A specialist's documentation confirming CRPS meets the Budapest diagnostic criteria: continuous pain disproportionate to inciting event, plus signs/symptoms in at least 3 of 4 categories (sensory, vasomotor, sudomotor/edema, motor/trophic).

Three-phase bone scan or MRI showing CRPS changes

Three-phase bone scintigraphy showing increased periarticular uptake, or MRI showing bone marrow edema and soft tissue changes characteristic of CRPS. Supports the objective diagnosis.

Nexus opinion linking CRPS to service injury or service-connected conditionCritical

Medical opinion connecting CRPS to an in-service fracture, surgery, soft tissue injury, or other inciting event.

Pain specialist or physiatrist evaluationCritical

Evaluation by a pain management specialist documenting allodynia, hyperalgesia, temperature asymmetry, skin color/texture changes, and functional impairment.

Treatment records (sympathetic blocks, ketamine infusion, SCS)

Records of nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulator implantation, ketamine infusions, or other CRPS-specific treatments and response.

Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

Completed DBQ Peripheral Nerves ConditionsCritical

VA standardized form capturing sensory abnormalities, motor dysfunction, and trophic changes associated with CRPS under DC 8099 (peripheral nerve, unlisted).

Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.