RSD Nerve Disorder

RSD, or reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a painful condition affecting mainly the arms and legs, and in rare cases, other parts of the body. The condition is characterized by burning, aching pain which is usually intense. RSD is also known as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

Symptoms

• Symptoms of RSD include skin sensitivity, muscles which become weak and spasm, muscle loss, joint swelling and stiffness, and burning pain in the hands, feet, arms and legs.

Type 1 Causes

• Type 1 RSD is caused by an illness or an injury that did not damage the nerves in the affected arm, leg or other body part. Ninety percent of people with RSD have this type.

Type 2 Causes

• Type 2 RSD is caused by distinct nerve injury from forceful trauma such as surgery, infection, fractures or heart attack.

Medical Treatment

• Treatment of RSD includes antidepressants, anticonvulsants, pain medicines, medicines to stop bone loss and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen.

Therapeutic Treatment

• RSD is treated with therapies, such as applying heat and cold to relieve swelling, physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength, and spinal cord stimulation to ease pain.