More info on Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy RSD is a progressive disease of the Autonomic Nervous System. (Also known as CRPS, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) There are FOUR Main Symptoms/Criteria of RSD/CRPS:

  1. Constant chronic burning pain.
  2. Inflammation
  3. Spasms – in blood vessels and muscles of the extremities
  4. Insomnia/Emotional Disturbance

Body Parts Affected

RSD is a multi-symptom condition affecting one, two, or sometimes all four of the extremities, (arms and legs). It can also be in the face, shoulders, back, eyes, and other areas as well.

McGill Pain Index

Based on the McGill Pain Index, RSD is considered by many to be the most painful form of chronic pain that exists today.

More detailed description

Sympathetic nerves are responsible for conducting sensation signals to the spinal cord from the body. They also regulate blood vessels and sweat glands. Sympathetic ganglia are collections of these nerves near the spinal cord. They contain approximately 20,000-30,000 nerve cell bodies. CRPS is felt to occur as the result of stimulation of sensory nerve fibers. Those regions of the body rich in nerve endings such as the fingers, hands, wrist, and ankles are most commonly affected. When a nerve is excited, its endings release chemicals. These chemicals cause vasodilation (opening of the blood vessels). This allows fluid to leak from the blood vessel into the surrounding tissue. The result is inflammation or swelling leading to more stimulation of the sensory nerve fibers. This lowers the pain threshold. This entire process is called neurogenic inflammation. This explains the swelling, redness, and warmth of the skin in the involved area initially. It also explains the increased sensitivity to pain. As the symptoms go untreated, the affected area can become cool, have hair loss, and have brittle or cracked nails. Muscle atrophy or shrinkage, loss of bone density (calcium), contracture, swelling, and limited range of motion in joints can also occur in the affected limb. These are in part caused by decreased blood supply to the affected tissues as the condition progresses.

Source: eOrthopod