Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) is also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This condition can be related to a major trauma, such as a fracture or surgery or even a soft tissue injury. However, it can also occur following a minor injury sometimes several weeks or months after an injury. In some cases, RSD may occur without a known cause or history of trauma. Some symptoms and characteristics of RSD may include the following:

• Severe pain disproportionate to an injury
• Pain spreading throughout the affected extremity or area
• Continuous burning and throbbing type pain
• Pain that does not respond to medical treatment
• Pain is worse when exposed to cold weather or water
• Unusual sensitivity to light touch
• Affected region has periodic changes in color and temperature
• Episodes of excessive sweating in affected area
• Swelling
• Loss or changes in hair and nail growth
• Spasms and loss of range of motion in affected area

Yet, not all patients will exhibit or complain of all the above symptoms of RSD, and the diagnosis is often determined by a combination of these signs. There is no easy test to diagnose and confirm the diagnosis of RSD, and as a result, there is frequently a delay in diagnosing RSD. Nonetheless, medical research is clear that the earlier treatment for RSD is initiated, the better the results and outcome.