Re: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome

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Posted by CCF neuro MD on July 02, 1997 at 22:19:25:

In Reply to: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome posted by Robert C. Spooner, Jr. on June 22, 1997 at 18:37:57:

I have Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome in my right hand, which has now
spread into my right arm and shoulder. I am finding no relief in the medicines
which are being prescribed and would like to find out information about what
treatments, therapies, exercises and programs are being utilized successfully
in relieving the symptoms of RSDS and managing it more successfully in
every day life.

I was retired in February of this year from the USMC because of the RSDS in
my right hand, and subsequently, have been treated through the VAMC in Houston.
I would like to know if there are any facilities or physicians either in the Houston
area, or through the military, who are familiar with, and have treated,
patients with RSDS.

Thank you.

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Hello, Robert,
In general, RSD is recognized as an excessive or abnormal response of the sympathetic nervous system to injury of the shoulder, arm, or leg, particularly if an incomplete nerve injury has been involved. It usually is associated with color change of the skin, swelling of the tissue, and feeling cold and pain.
The major aspects of the management of this condition include sympathetic nerve block, pain med injection, and systemic steroids. In addition, physical therapy by a specialist in this field has been well accepted as useful. Surgery to block nerve conduction has been deemed to be helpful in some cases, but not much of help in others, depending on the type of sensory fibers involved. This requires special nerve studies.
Although I do not have the access to the names of pain specialists in Houston area off hand, I can be sure that help will be available at Baylor, a highly recognized medical arena. Alternatively, our institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, has its own center for pain. If you are interested in coming to visit, please call toll free at 1(800)223-2273 ext. 45559. We will have your visit start at Neurology.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your primary physician for the diagnosis and treatment of your specific medical conditions.

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