Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) represents a state of constant and often disabling pain, also known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy or causalgia. The aim of this review is to present epidemiology and etiology of the disease, proposed patophysiological mechanisms, currently accepted model for diagnosing the condition and previously investigated methods of treating and relieving the consequences of this disease. In case of CRPS type 1 no damage to the central or peripheral nervous system is found as underlying cause. In contrast, CRPS type 2 can develop after limb trauma, bone fractures or lesions of the nervous system. It is marked by a triad of symptoms that include autonomous (changes in skin color and temperature, sweating disorder), sensory (persistent pain, hyperalgesia, allodynia) and motor (tremor, dystonia, weakness). Chronic course of the disease leads to atrophic changes in tissues of the extremities, loss of function and working capacity. Despite the research, there are contradictions regarding mechanism causing the disease, but currently proposed pathophysiological models that best describe the disease are autonomic dysfunction, neurogenic inflammation and neuroplastic changes in the central nervous system and it is considered that their effect is rather compatible than exclusionary. Diagnosis is based on detailed clinical examination with classification of the clinical presentation according to "the Budapest criteria“. Therapy is oriented on interdisciplinary collaboration of physicians and includes a customized physical therapy, pharmacological approach and invasive procedures. Pharmacological approach is mainly symptom oriented and includes the use of glucocorticoids, baclofen, bisphosphonates and free radical scavengers, especially prophylactic vitamin C. Invasive approach includes stimulation of the spinal cord, anesthetic peripheral nerve catheters and in extreme situation amputation that patients in severe condition gladly accept. Further research is needed to better understand the disease and more effective therapies.