Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy FAQs

1. What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome?

2. Who can be afflicted with this condition?

3. Is RSD curable?

4. What are symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome?

5. How is RSD diagnosed?

6. How is the disease treated?

7. How is pain managed during treatment?

8. My RSD followed an injury that was someone else's fault. If I decide to file a lawsuit, how much will my case be worth?

9. How are lawyers paid in these types of cases?

1. What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome?
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) is a disease of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls certain functions in our bodies, such as the opening and closing of blood vessels and sweat glands.

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2. Who can be afflicted with this condition?
RSD can affect anyone, but it is most common in women over the age of 50 years. RSD often follows an injury, but in more than 30% of the cases the cause is unknown.

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3. Is RSD curable?
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome is treated with physical therapy and medications, and generally goes away with time, although it may take several years to run its course.

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4. What are symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome?
The main symptom of RSD is severe pain, often including a burning sensation in the affected area. The disorder may eventually result in dystrophy (weakness) of the affected area. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are very important if the disease is to be managed.

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5. How is RSD diagnosed?
The affected area will be examined and a complete examination may be needed. X-rays and bone scans are often obtained to help in the diagnosis. Electrical tests of nerve and muscle function may also be ordered.

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6. How is the disease treated?
The most important element of treatment is to restore movement to the affected area. This condition is easiest to treat in its early phases. Physical or occupational therapy with specific exercises has been helpful in maintaining flexibility and strength.

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7. How is pain managed during treatment?
Acetaminophen, aspirin, and other anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat the pain. Frequently, TENS units (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) are used. A TENS unit relieves pain by blocking nerve impulses. Another common treatment consists of injecting a numbing agent near the affected nerves or alongside the spinal column.

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8. My RSD followed an injury that was someone else's fault. If I decide to file a lawsuit, how much will my case be worth?
Each case is unique. One important factor is the extent of the damage and injury that you have suffered as a result of someone's wrongdoing. For more information, please contact Oshman & Mirisola, LLP.

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9. How are lawyers paid in these types of cases?
At Oshman & Mirisola, LLP, we work on a contingent-fee basis. This means that we are only paid if we win your case, and we take a percentage of the amount recovered to cover our fees. Please see our How We Charge page for more information.

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For more information, please see our Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Page

Contact us online through our FREE personal injury evaluation form if you have any questions about your claim.

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