Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) — NDIS Support

Yes — Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can qualify for NDIS support. CRPS is on the NDIA’s List B — permanence is recognised, and you evidence the functional impact on daily life. Funding covers reasonable and necessary supports across daily living, therapy, social participation and capacity building.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a chronic pain condition that usually develops in an arm or leg, often after an injury, surgery or fracture. The pain is out of proportion to the original injury and is typically described as burning, stabbing or throbbing. It is thought to involve the…

CRPS & the NDIS FAQs

Is CRPS eligible for the NDIS?
CRPS can be eligible, but it is not automatic and access is not decided by how severe the pain is alone. The NDIS assesses whether the condition is permanent and causes a substantial reduction in functional capacity. For chronic pain conditions this means a treating specialist confirming the condition is permanent and…
Can a chronic pain condition really qualify for the NDIS?
Yes. While chronic pain conditions are assessed carefully, the NDIS does not exclude them. The key is functional evidence rather than the diagnosis or pain scores alone. Applications succeed when a specialist confirms permanence and an occupational therapist documents specifically what the person can no longer do…
What evidence gives a CRPS application the best chance?
Include a specialist statement confirming the diagnosis and that the condition is permanent and unlikely to improve, and a detailed occupational therapy functional assessment. Strong applications document daily tasks the person cannot do or needs help with, how long activities take, the effect on mobility, self-care…
Does the NDIS treat my pain or fund pain medication?
No. Medical pain management — medications, nerve blocks, pain clinics and other treatment — is funded through the health system and Medicare, not the NDIS. The NDIS funds disability supports that build and maintain function and independence, such as therapy focused on daily living, support workers, assistive technology…
What if my CRPS improves or fluctuates?
CRPS can vary and some people improve, which is part of why permanence needs to be assessed. If the condition is expected to substantially improve, it may not meet the permanence requirement. Where CRPS is long-standing, unlikely to resolve and substantially limits daily function despite treatment, it can qualify — and…

CRPS & the NDIS — practical guides

Related conditions

Sources

Reviewed by the Novida editorial team · last reviewed 2026-07-12. General information only — not medical advice.