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Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)
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Reflex Sympathetic dystrophy, also known as Complex regional pain syndrome, is a condition of intense burning pain, stiffness, swelling, and discoloration that most often affects the hand, Arms, legs, and feet.
Damage to, or Malfaction of the peripheral and central nervous systems is occasionally believed to cause CRPS. The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord; the peripheral nervous system involves nerve signaling from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.
Although it is more common in women, Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (Complex regional pain syndrome) can occur in anyone at any age, with a peak at age 40.
Causes of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
The exact cause of Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is unknown and symptoms most commonly occur after injury or surgery. Other causes include pressure on a nerve, infection, cancer, neck problems, stroke, or heart attack.
Occasionally CRPS develops without any known injury. In most cases, an infection, a blood vessel problem, or entrapment of the nerves may cause an internal injury. A physician will perform a thorough examination in order to identify a cause.
In many cases, Reflex sympathetic dystrophy results from a variety of causes. In such instances, treatments are directed at all of the contributing factors.
Treatment of reflex sympathetic dystrophy
Medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oral corticosteroids, antidepressants, blood pressure medications, anticonvulsants, and opioid analgesics are medications recommended to relieve symptoms.
Injection therapy. Injecting an anesthetic (numbing medicine) near the affected sympathetic nerves can reduce symptoms. This is usually recommended early in the course of CRPS in order to avoid progression to the later stages.
Biofeedback. Increased body awareness and relaxation techniques may help with pain relief.
Therapy. Active exercise that emphasizes normal use of the affected limb is essential to permanent relief of this condition. Physical and/or occupational therapy are important in helping patients regain normal use patterns. Medications and other treatment options can reduce pain,Physicians should also allow the patient to engage in active exercise.
Surgical treatment of Reflex Sympathetic dystrophy
Spinal cord stimulator. The Physician implants Tiny electrodes along your spine and deliver mild electric impulses to the affected nerves.
Pain pump implantation. A Physician may also implant a small device that delivers pain medication to the spinal cord near the abdomen.
Results from surgical procedures may be disappointing. Many patients with chronic CRPS symptoms benefit from psychological evaluation and counseling.
