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| Miscellaneous Disorders of the Hand & Upper Extremity > Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy What Is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy? Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is a problem with the autonomic or sympathetic nervous system, the nerve system that controls the diameter of blood vessels. How it happens is not known. But as the nerves are damaged, they send the wrong signals to the brain. These signals then send back pain messages to the affected area. The illness can cause:
Stage one lasts about three months. Its main symptom is pain, sometimes described as a burning feeling. Stage two happens after three or four months. This is when swelling in the affected area can be seen. It is also when many of the other symptoms listed below begin to appear. The pain may get worse with changes in the temperature and it may spread to other areas. X-rays may show that the bones have started to weaken. Stage three occurs after eight or nine months. At this time, changes that cannot be reversed occur. Muscle tissue is lost. The joint begins to contract and motion is difficult. The pain increases. Causes of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy? Reflex sympathetic dystrophy happens to men as much as women. It can even occur in children. But, women over the age of 50 seem to be at more risk. Minor trauma such as an ankle sprain can initiate the disease. Abnormal activity in the central nervous system seems to contribute to the disease. People who have had injuries to their nerves are particularly at risk. Symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?
There are three stages to the disease and treatment depends on the stage. In the first stage, improving motion of the area is the prime concern. Often physical therapy is used. Sometimes, occupational therapy is used, too. Managing the pain is also a goal. Sometimes an injection of something to numb the area is given to block the pain. Often this takes three to five shots over the course of a week or two. Oral steroids may be given. Sometimes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may also help. Some doctors suggest a treatment called TENS. TENS stands for transcutaneous electrical stimulation. With TENS, short bursts of electricity are aimed at the nerve endings under the skin and this may help relieve some people's pain. The information provided herein is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a licensed physician. ©2000 DynoMed.com, LLC, Indianapolis, IN |