Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy: Recognition and Management for the Physician

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is a dysfunctional pain response to a noxious stimulus. It is characterized by pain out of proportion to the inciting event, which may be quite insignificant but can be severe. In its earliest stages reflex sympathetic dystrophy is responsive to sympathetic blockade, pharmacologic agents, other modalities, and physical therapy. Early recognition and treatment is critical, because unrecognized reflex sympathetic dystrophy left untreated can result in irreversible neurologic and functional deterioration. A new nomenclature is presented. Complex Regional Pain syndrome, (CRPS) Type I, and for the similar entity causalgia Complex Regiona