Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy can cause problems from minor arm pain to burning sensations to nervous system dysfunction. It cannot be cured and can last for many years or even a lifetime. However, there are ways to work with reflex sympathetic dystrophy and to help treat it. There are even special RSD treatment centers for those who suffer from the disorder.
What is reflex sympathetic dystrophy and how does it occur?
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is often the result of a surgery or trauma, although how it occurs is still unknown. It’s symptoms often occur in three different stages from light to intense, and they include muscle atrophy, sweating abnormally, weakness, subsequent depression, swelling, sensitivity to light touch, and skin color and temperature changes. Treatment is most effective in the early stages.
How is reflex sympathetic dystrophy treated?
For temporary relief of burning symptoms, cool and moist applications on the affected area can help. Medication is often given to help with persistent symptoms, and occasionally, a nerve block will be injected to help treat and find a diagnosis. Hyperbaric oxygen treatment for reflex sympathetic dystrophy is another effective way to treat symptoms.
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the use of oxygen at a level that is higher than atmospheric pressure. This will increase the oxygen transport capacity of the blood, and will help the body heal naturally faster and more efficiently. A hyperbaric oxygen chambers, rigid or flexible pressure vessels, are used to deliver the oxygen during the treatment. It is used for many other diseases and disorders such as Lyme disease and AIDS.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment is one that is approved by the Food And Drug Association, and is an extremely viable option for treatment of reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Many RSD treatment centers are using hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat patients.