RSD Cures

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic and painful neurological condition that affects the skin, muscles, joints and bones. RSD typically begins in an injured limb, a sprain or after surgery. It can also spread to other areas. Sometimes no initial event can be determined in cases of RSD.
Symptoms of RSD include burning pain, sweating, swelling and sensitivity to touch. There are no known cures for RSD, however there are a range of treatment options.

Physical therapy

• RSD treatments include attempting to increase movement of the affected limb. Attaining increasing mobility involves physical therapy and rehabilitation. This therapy includes daily range of motion exercises as well as avoiding activities that may cause joint or nerve irritation. Muscle stiffness during this process may also be treated with muscle relaxant medication. Effective treatment of RSD through physical therapy involves finding the right balance of activity, not to too much or too little, according to Dr. H. Hooshmand of Neurological Associates International Center.

Nerve block

• A nerve block procedure disrupts the transmission of pain signals from a group of nerve cell bodies in patients with RSD. This involves inserting a needle and injecting an anesthesia into the ganglion.
  After a nerve block procedure the patient is consistently checked to see if there's still pain. According to Dr. Paul Dreyfuss of the University of Washington, nerve block is not an attempt at a cure but an effort to isolate the specific nerve causing pain.

TENS

• A Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) unit is often utilized in treatment of RSD. The process involves relieving pain by blocking the pain message sent to the brain. Electrodes are placed over the painful area and administer a low-intensity electrical current which supersedes the painful message and can reduce pain. When performed by a physician, it can be relatively risk-free and the process has been approved by the FDA.

Ongoing support

• Those suffering from RSD can often understandably become depressed due to the pain and subsequent lifestyle changes necessary due to lack of mobility. Professional counseling can help RSD sufferers better deal with the condition through ongoing emotional support.