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The following is a summary of “Cognitive Function in Patients With Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: No Clear Impairment Found in a Select Patient Sample,” published in the June 2025 issue of European Journal of Pain by Berg et al. 

Chronic pain impact on cognition suggests complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) may impair specific cognitive functions, but limited assessments have left affected domains and CRPS-specific impairments unclear.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to comprehensively evaluate cognition in CRPS and compare it with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) to identify CRPS-specific cognitive dysfunction.  

They administered a standardized cognitive assessment with 10 tests covering memory, concentration, executive functioning, social cognition, and performance validity. Standardized z-scores and the proportion of low-performing individuals (< −1.5 standard deviations from age-, sex-, and education-adjusted normative data) were analyzed. Comparisons were made between both patient groups and the expected population proportion.  

The results showed that 64 patients (39 with CRPS and 25 with CTS) with a mean age of 52.5 years (range 20–81) were included. Patients with CRPS reported significantly higher pain scores 24 hours before and during the visit (P< 0.001). Cognitive test scores were similar between groups, with z-scores comparable or superior to population norms. Additionally, the proportion of patients with z-scores below −1.5 standard deviations was similar to or better than expected.  

Investigators concluded that no cognitive impairment was found in either group, with both performing at or above population norms, though factors such as depression, anxiety, stress should still be considered in the neurology context. 

Source: onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejp.70046