Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

RSD stands for reflex sympathetic dystrophy. It's also known as complex regional pain syndrome, or CRPS. What causes RSD is a bit of a medical mystery. The National Institutes of Health classifies RSD as a neuropathic pain disorder. Current theories are that RSD is either caused by a dysfunction in the sympathetic nervous system, or by an overactive immune system response. Some episodes of RSD even begin after other illness, such as nerve damage or a stroke.

RSD symptoms may come and go, or they may be lasting. The symptoms typically affect the extremities, such as the hands and feet. However, symptoms may also spread into the arms and legs.

Typical RSD symptoms include:

• Burning or stabbing pain
• Warmth and/or redness of the skin
• Swelling
• Hypersensitivity (a light touch might cause pain)
• Skin texture changes
• Joint stiffness
• Weakness or difficulty with movement

Because the cause of RSD is often a mystery, treatment can be challenging. It may take some time before an effective treatment is found. Some commonly used treatment approaches for RSD include:

• Topical analgesics
• Painkillers, such as opioids or NSAIDs
• Adjuvant analgesics, such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants
• Steroids
• Physical therapy
• Nerve blocks
• Spinal cord stimulation

For some people, RSD is a one-time episode. For others, it may persist for a very long time. Different treatments can help a person with RSD cope with the symptoms, but because the cause of RSD pain is often a mystery, it is hard to “cure.”

Sometimes, talking about your RSD symptoms can help. Check into support groups, such as the chronic pain forum. Talking with someone who understands your RSD pain can make a difference.

Other coping mechanisms include:

• Keeping a pain journal
• Practicing relaxation
• Using distraction techniques

For more information about RSD, check out the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association.

_Sources:

_{Medline Plus. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Accessed 11/19/09. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/complexregionalpainsyndrome.html}

_{National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. NINDS Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Information Page. Accessed 11/19/09. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy/reflex_sympathetic_dystrophy.htm}