Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is also known as complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) and is primarily treated by neurologist. Additional evaluation may be needed by neurosurgeon, orthopedic surgeon and pain specialist.
It is a disorder of nerves, mainly characterised by pain in one part of body, with additional symptoms. History of trauma is usually present in most people.
Treatment is possible with physiotherapy and medications, however, there is no cure possible.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist
Patient replied :
My mother 60 yrs, fallen on the road on 1/1/15. ORIF on olecranon done-elbow joined. But there is problem in making fist-If forcefully made pain starts in the whole hand starting from arm. Sometimes pain starts even when in rest. ROM exercises done but stiffness remains.
nerve compressed detected in the wrist when consulted Neurologist but because the metal present in the elbow, MRI could not be done.
What is the problem with my mother? Here the orthopaedic doctor is suspecting Osteo-Dystrophy. Is it the same as RSD?
If the operation is done to decompress the nerve, will it help to improve the condition?
Waiting for your answer.
regards,
------Biplab Roy
Thank you for getting back.
The neurological diagnosis seems to be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), which is due to compression of a nerve (median nerve) at the level of wrist. This would improve with a minor surgery, called as carpal tunnel decompression.
Osteo dystrophy is not same as RSD. It may be better to discuss that with an orthopedic surgeon.
It could be possible that she has an additional orthopedic problem.
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist
Patient replied :
Thank you sir for the answer.
What can i expect by doing the CTS operation?-whether stiffness and pain in makinf fist canimprove by doing the operation?
Secondly, how complex the operation is?-whether it may further create complications?
With regards,
Biplab Roy
Thank you for getting back.
By doing CTS operation, pain and tingling of hands would reduce. Making a fist would also be easier.
The operation is simple and usually does not lead to any complications (minor or major).
Best wishes,
Dr. Sudhir Kumar MD (Medicine), DM (Neurology)
Senior Consultant Neurologist