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Sometimes accidents  can cause a little-known but devastating and life altering damage to the sympathetic nervous system known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) or Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD). Some of the telltale signs of RSD/CRPS are:

• The pain associated with the injury such as a sprain or fracture is disproportionately intense.
• The pain is described as deep, aching, cold, burning, and/or increased skin sensitivity.
• The presense of an initiating noxious event (sprain, fracture etc.)
• Continuing pain.
• Allodynia  (allodynia meaning “other pain”, is a painful response to a usually non-painful stimulus)
• Hyperalgesia (hyperalgesia is an increased sensitivity to pain.)
• Abnormal swelling.
• Abnormal hair or nail growth.
• Abnormal skin color changes.
• Abnormal skin temperature.
• Abnormal sweating.
• Burning Pain
• Cold feeling in extremities (hands and feet)
• Discoloration of the skin
• Swelling in the hands and feet
• Hypersensitivity to touch
• Limited range of motion
• Muscle spasms

RSD/CRPS can also be caused by surgery such as arthroscopy of the knee or shoulder, carpal tunnel surgery, disc herniation surgery, removal of neuroma, rib resection, tarsal tunnel surgery, ulnar nerve surgery etc.

The Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Association (RSDSA) can provide more information on this illness.   Although there is no known cure for this disease, it can be controlled if treated within three months of actual onset, not diagnosis.

RSD may be managed using a multi-disciplinary, non surgical approach with the proper combination of medications, nerve blocks, massage, and physical and occupational therapy.

Protocols have been developed which are most effective in reducing pain and suffering, thereby improving quality of life and activities of daily living.

Posted in: Accident/Injury Advice at 5:29 pm