Treating Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Treatment for RSD begins with therapy that teaches you ways to move the affected region. But if your pain prevents this therapy, you may have other treatment first. No matter what the treatment, the sooner you get it, the faster you'll get better.

Pressing down while making scrubbing motions helps you use your hand.

Physical, Occupational, and Hand Therapy

Physical, occupational, and hand therapy aim to improve movement, build strength, and reduce pain. Which therapy you receive depends on which part of your body is affected by RSD. The goal of therapy is to help you to learn ways to use the affected region as normally as possible. For instance, if RSD affects your leg and foot, you may work with a therapist to walk more. Or, if you've lost some hand or arm use, you may learn exercises to regain some of that function.

Treatment also may include desensitization. This involves rubbing different textures on the injured region. Heat or cold also may be used. Treatment can help you get used to things touching your hand or foot. This may help reduce pain in the long term.

Biofeedback can help you manage pain.

Medical Treatment

Your doctor may suggest certain treatment for your symptoms. The goal is to reduce your pain and to get you moving again. Treatment may include:

• Oral medications to relieve pain

• Nerve blocks to stop pain signals

• Spinal cord stimulators to send electrical signals that block pain

• Sympathectomy to destroy a nerve that's causing pain