Exploring the use of Vitamin C in the prevention of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: results of a systematic review, protocol design and randomised controlled feasibility study

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a debilitating condition that can occur after trauma or surgery. Patients experience severe, unrelenting pain which is not controlled with standard measures. There is some evidence that Vitamin C may prevent CRPS following surgery to the lower limb. This thesis presents a thorough review of the literature including current treatment, modalities and the effectiveness of Vitamin C in the prevention of CRPS following surgery to the lower limb. A protocol for a randomised control feasibility study was designed and the results of this trial are documented. In-depth discussion of the challenges associated with running a randomised control trial is undertaken and recommendations for a large scale, appropriately powered trial are made.