Arthritis is one of the common ailments that plague a great number of people residing in different parts of the world. There are various sub-categories and types of arthritis that could affect a person. The reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) is closely related to the disease of arthritis. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome is the current name used for reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.
Causes
Various causes are attributed to the condition of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome. Some researchers are of the opinion that the disease is caused by a dysfunctional central or peripheral nervous system. Studies conducted on animals have suggested that a catecholamine, norepinephrine, could also be a causative agent of the disease. It is debatable whether any one particular factor could be blamed for the onset of the disease. The widely accepted notion is that RSDS occurs due to a combination of factors.
There are some particular circumstances or incidents which could lead to the problem of RSDS. A patient suffering from an injury or trauma could develop the condition of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome. Some of the other causes that could trigger RSDS include arthritis, shoulder problems, diabetes, a stroke and brain diseases. A few medicines are also known to act as a trigger for the disease. In a significant number of the cases of the disease, no triggers are involved.
Symptoms
The symptoms of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome help in correctly diagnosing the disease. The body parts or areas that get affected by the disease include the arms, hands, legs and feet. Body pain is one of the most common symptoms of the disease of RSDS.
Some of other symptoms of the disease are, increase in skin sensitivity, change in skin color, swelling and stiffness in the joints and restricted movements of the affected body parts. A patient exhibiting more than 1 symptom of the disease should seek immediate medical help.
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Treatment
Various methods of treatment are available for the disease of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome. But all the treatment methods are aimed at the symptoms of the disease. Physical therapy and exercise is commonly used to treat the problem. Since the patient experiences feelings of anxiety, stress and depression, psychotherapy is also used as a treatment for RSDS.
Surgery is also suggested as one of the methods of treatment for RSDS. But the side effects associated with the surgical procedure adopted for treating the disease, has given rise to plenty of controversies. Some of the other possible methods include intrathecal drug pumps, spinal cord stimulation and medications.
arthritisxl.com provides an overview about Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome and other types of arthritis.
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