Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
Summary
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a painful condition of the arm, hand, leg or foot that occurs after an injury or trauma , such as a fracture. Symptoms vary and may last months or years. Early diagnosis and intervention is essential for a quick recovery.
Symptoms
The symptoms and signs of CRPS may include:
- Burning pain in the arm, hand, leg or foot
- Pins and needles sensation in the area injured and surrounding areas on the limb
- Pain that changes in intensity but often feels much worse than may be expected
- muscle wasting from disuse
- Tremors or spasms
- Stiffness
- Changes to the skin, hair and nails on the affected limb
- Temperature changes in comparison to the other limb ( very warm and sweaty or cold/clammy)
DIAGNOSIS
Early diagnosis is vital to prevent delayed recovery ( months to years). Seek assessment from a musculo-skeletal physiotherapist or Sports Physiotherapist, Gp, or Rheumatologist or Orthopaedic Surgeon for diagnosis
MANAGEMENT
1. Medical Management for evaluation of bone density changes and pain management
2. Physiotherapy Management involves:
-densisitisation of the affected limb
- restoration of movement
-weight transference
-restoration of function
The image below is RSD in a foot following a fracture in the 5th toe that was managed poorly
