Introduction to
RSD reflex sympathetic dystrophy
CRPS complex regional pain syndrome

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a condition characterized by unrelenting pain, swelling, discoloration, temperature, and physical changes in the affected body part. RSD / CRPS can affect any part of the body but occurs most frequently in the hands, arms, feet, shoulders, and knees.

RSD / CRPS typically occurs following trauma or surgery to an extremity. Often the injury is relatively minor and the pain is greatly disproportionate to the injury. Although the severe pain may immediately follow the injury, it often does not and instead follows the injury by days or even months. The pain is often characterized as an intense burning type pain.

> More Clinical Features of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

Although most medical experts believe RSD is characterized by an overactive sympathetic nervous system response, there is much debate about the physiology of the disease. The name reflex sympathetic dystrophy was given to the disease in the 1940's but has undergone recent scrutiny.

Many in the medical field believe that the name "reflex sympathetic dystrophy" is somewhat misleading considering only a portion of the patients respond to sympathetic blocks, indicating that not all of the pain in this syndrome is related to the sympathetic nervous system.

In response to this frequent inconsistency, the International Association for the Study of Pain has adopted the term Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) to describe the debilitating pain syndrome that was commonly known as RSD.

• CRPS type I - is also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy where the pain is not associated with an identifiable nerve injury.
  
  
• CRPS type II - is also known as Causalgia and is diagnosed when the pain can be traced to a nerve injury.

Next > Clinical Features of RSD.

If you are suffering from the pain and loss of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy / Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and would like to work with dedicated and experienced RSD / CRPS attorneys who are passionate about your case, please view our RSD Legal Representation information or contact us for your free RSD / CRPS consultation. The Belt Law Firm has handled RSD / CRPS cases and has the experience to investigate your case and handle your claim. Our Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy lawyers have the compassion to work with individuals who are suffering the traumatic life changes caused by RSD / CRPS. If you suffer from unexplained burning pain, swelling or temperature, contact the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome attorneys at the Belt Law Firm to discuss your case.

For more information on RSD, please visit our firm website.