Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy occurs when the part of the sympathetic nervous system that controls blood flow and sweat glands in the hands and arms behaves in an abnormal fashion.

Also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, it is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by:

Severe burning pain
Pathological changes in bone and skin
Excessive sweating
Tissue swelling
Extreme sensitivity to touch

The disease is commonly brought on by an injury although infection, pressure on a nerve, heart attack, stroke, or surgery may also trigger the disorder.

Even minor injuries may lead to the syndrome, and the pain experienced is often greater than would be expected from the type of injury sustained.

Treatment Options
While there is no known cure, the condition is treatable if identified in its early stages. Treatment is aimed at controlling pain, providing rehabilitation to enable the person to regain or improve the function of the affected limb, and providing emotional support.

Physical therapy is critical to help regain function and relieve symptoms. Occupational therapy can help teach how to overcome the difficulties with everyday activities. If the disorder has progressed significantly, surgery may be recommended.

While medications such as painkillers, oral steroids, and anti-depressants may be used to relieve symptoms, the most effective form of treatment is nerve blocks, which involve the injection of local anaesthetic into the affected nerve. A sympathetic nerve block interrupts the transmission of pain signals from a group of nerve cell bodies.

The procedure involves the insertion of a needle into the appropriate location and the injection of anesthesia into the nerve(s). The effect is monitored over time and the procedure may be repeated if the pain is recurrent.

We Can Help
The physicians at the Northwest Surgical Specialists Pain Management Center are experts at diagnosing the need for and delivering soothing pain medicine exactly where it will result in maximum relief.

If you or a loved one is suffering the effects of chonic pain, contact the Pain Management Center at 847.885.9525 to arrange a consultation.

Hoffman Estates

Northwest Surgical Specialists
3100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 150
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
(View Map)

Foot & Ankle Care
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Skin Care
Surgical Care Center

847.885.9525

Elgin

Summit Green Medical Center
431 Summit Street, Suite 102
Elgin, IL 60120
(View Map)

Foot & Ankle Care
Physical Therapy

847.697.4500

Mt. Prospect

Metrodocs, S.C.
431 Lakeview Court, Suite D
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
(View Map)

Foot & Ankle Care

847.296.3040