RSD on the Cellular Level

Posted on September 7, 2018 by admin

RSD on the Cellular Level

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. One of the most important issues facing modern society today is the management of chronic pain. Over the years, there have been many new tools to help people deal with pain crises and quality of life issues related to their symptoms; however, this problem impacts more people than cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Many people use opioid medications to manage their pain. This is actually one of the most common ways that people alleviate their symptoms; however, the opioid epidemic is a very real issue facing the health care system and its patients. According to the FDA:

About a quarter of individuals who are prescribed opioid medications misuse them in some way
About 10 percent of individuals who take these medications will develop a dependence on their medications.
Around 5 percent of individuals who misuse their opioid medications will eventually use heroin
Opioid overdoses have increased by about a third over the past year
Opioid overdoses have been the worst in large cities, jumping by more than half

For people who struggle with chronic pain, such as those suffering from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), it is vital to look for alternative treatment options. This means trying to increase our understanding of this disease in order to find new solutions. Recently, a paper was published examining how RSD develops and producing its symptoms on a cellular level.

A Research Study: RSD on the Cellular Level

A study was published in the Journal of Integrative Neuroscience which took a look at the inner working of RSD. The study looks at individuals who suffer from chronic pain, including those who deal with RSD. Specifically, they analyzed people who have difficulty managing pain related to this disease. They conducted a literature review, detailed laboratory experiments, and an analysis of certain biomarkers. What they found was that individuals who have chronic pain have sensors in their spinal cord that have become hyper-sensitized. This means that these receptors, located on the dorsal horn of the spine, respond more readily to pain signals. This is called central sensitization. This sensitization comes about as a result of the increase in the numbers of glutamate receptors. This jump, over the long-term, causes the brain to interpret an increase in the amount of pain in a certain region of the body. This is called long-term potentiation and impacts the amygdala and the hippocampus, two regions of the brain. Because of this understanding, chronic pain treatment should focus on the reversal of central sensitization. This may prove to be more effective and have fewer side effects than long-term opioid use.

Help from a Legal Adviser

When someone is struggling with chronic pain from an RSD diagnosis, the quality of life issues can be devastating. This can make it hard for someone to do their job, go to school, and even help with chores around the house. For help with these issues, it is prudent to meet with an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. Meeting with a lawyer can help a family review all of the legal options that are available to them. While families may be wondering how to select a lawyer to work with, the most important thing to remember is to find a lawyer who understands your injury.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If you’ve been injured in an accident and have a diagnosis of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please contact me at 916-382-0693. I am available to share friendly, free legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the photograph at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has yielded permission to show it here.

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Challenges Facing RSD Patients with Long-Term Care

Posted on September 7, 2018 by admin

Challenges Facing RSD Patients with Long-Term Care

When someone has been diagnosed with a new disease, the focus is on the moment here and now. This makes sense. When dealing with an acute problem such as a new medical condition, there are many questions that float through someone’s head. Examples include:

What does this disease mean for me?
How did I get this disease?
What is my prognosis going to be? Is there any hope of a recovery?
How is this going to impact my loved ones?
What are some of the complications that might develop?

Someone who has been diagnosed with a chronic medical condition, such as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is not alone. There are actually many people in the United States who are living with a chronic medical condition. According to statistics which have been published by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

There are more than 115 million people who are living in the United States with a chronic medical condition. This is almost 50 percent of all adults in this country.
Among the top 10 causes of death in the year 2014, seven of these were due to chronic diseases.
Combined, these chronic diseases were named as a cause of death in close to half of all deaths in the United States

There are many different types of chronic medical conditions such as chronic pain, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. For those who suffer from chronic pain from RSD, it is important to plan for the future. Long-term care can be a challenge, and there are certain obstacles that need to be addressed.

An Overview: Complications of RSD

Many of the problems that accompany the long-term care of someone with RSD come from the complications of this heinous disease. Some of the common complications that people might experience include:

Mental Health Disorders: It is important not to overlook the mental health complications that come with RSD. Individuals with RSD develop mental health disorders, such as depression, at a high rate. This can make it difficult to engage with family and friends.

Cardiac Issues: Those who live with RSD for many years are at risk of developing cardiac complications. When someone lives with chronic pain, this tends to drive up someone’s heart rate. Having a chronically high heart rate can lead to cardiomyopathy, which could lead to heart failure.

Quality of Life: Perhaps the largest complication of RSD comes from the quality of life issues that it creates. Individuals with RSD can have trouble staying in school and attending work, causing tremendous financial strain. This financial strain is one of the biggest aspects of planning for long-term care. What are some of the other issues that need to be addressed?

The Challenges of Managing Complications and Long-Term Care of RSD

When someone has been diagnosed with RSD, it is important to take the time to plan for long-term care; however, there are many aspects of long-term care that need to be addressed. Failure to adequately plan can place undue stress on family and friends, straining these relationships while also serving as a detriment to the health of the loved one with RSD. Some of the issues that must be considered include:

Financial: This is one of the biggest challenges of long-term care. Research has demonstrated that the majority of one’s healthcare costs are accumulated just before death. Sometimes, insurance companies refuse to reimburse people for costs related to long-term care. This can come from either a lifetime cap or from failure to pay coinsurance. Purchasing long-term care insurance can be helpful; however, this can also be expensive.

Logistics: Sometimes, the logistics of long-term care can also be a challenge. Who is going to take time out of their day to day life to help a loved one with RSD? What happens when the medical problems become too much for the average person to manage? Will they need to be placed in a long-term medical home?

Appointments: It can be a challenge to find specialists who are able to manage all of the various aspects of RSD. As the disease progresses, multiple organ systems can start to show signs of wear and tear. Is home nursing going to be the answer? What if the specialists are a long way away? It is important to make sure that loved ones have the medical care that they need.

Ultimately, RSD is a chronic condition and should be managed as such. This means that individuals living with RSD and their loved ones should plan for the future. For help with this, it is a good idea to meet with a caring RSD attorney in Sacramento. It is important for families to review all of their options before making a decision.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has had problems managing their daily life because of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide friendly, free legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the image at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has granted permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 891]

Manual Therapy is Helpful in the Treatment of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Posted on September 6, 2018 by admin

Manual Therapy is Helpful in the Treatment of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. For people who live with chronic pain, every day can be a challenge. Some days, the pain may be a nagging feeling ever present in the back of the mind. Other days, the pain could feel like an avalanche that prevents people from getting out of bed. One of the diseases that can cause chronic pain, called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is often overlooked by medical professionals. For those who have this disease, the symptoms may include:

Chronic, intractable pain in one or more limbs
Changes in the texture or growth of the hair or nails
Changes in the sensation of temperature and pressure in the affected limb
Hypersensitivity to touch
An increased risk of mental health disorders, such as depression

Some of the statistics related to Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy include:

Women are impacted by RSD more often than men
The average age at which people are diagnosed with this disease is around 40
There are between two and six million people living with this disease in the United States
This disease impacts 26 out of every 1,000 people in the United States

Because of the severity of these symptoms, it is important for everyone with this disease to take a comprehensive approach in its treatment. While much of the treatment focuses on the use of pain medication or nerve stimulation, it is important to think about more conventional treatment options as well. One recent research study focused on the role of manual therapies in the treatment of RSD. The results of the study have significant implications in the treatment of RSD.

A Research Study: Manual Therapies in the Treatment of RSD

A research study was recently published in the Journal of Physiotherapy exploring people who had been diagnosed with RSD in their lower extremities. Patients received multiple lumbar spine massage sessions per week spread out over 3-4 months. Their improvement was measured by both a disability index and a functional use index. Over the course of 12-20 weeks, individuals had their symptoms rated on both scales. By the end of the study, all patients had shown a significant improvement in both their disability and function. This study shows that, in addition to conventional medical therapies, manual therapies, such as massage, can play an important role in the treatment of RSD. Individuals impacted by this disease should strongly consider employing massage therapy as part of their treatment regimen. It could lead to a significant improvement in their quality of life.

Help from a Legal Adviser with RSD

While it is important for everyone with RSD to find the most appropriate medical care for their disease, it is just as important to seek help from professionals outside of healthcare. When a family struggles with RSD, they can feel a significant amount of stress from issues related to work, school, and even insurance claims. For help with this, meeting with an experienced RSD Lawyer in Sacramento is a good idea. There are many attorneys to choose from, and families may not know how to go about choosing the right legal adviser for them. While I do hope that you decide to work with me and my team, it is important for you to find an attorney who listens to your concerns and represents your interests. Please, feel free to call me with any questions or concerns.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know is looking for additional treatment options for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide friendly, free legal advice.

Everyone is invited to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the photograph at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has yielded permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 657]

Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems and the Treatment of RSD

Posted on September 6, 2018 by admin

Intrathecal Drug Delivery Systems and the Treatment of RSD

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. Chronic pain is one of the pressing issues facing the healthcare system today. According to the American Pain Association, more people suffer from chronic pain than those who suffer from heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. Because of this, the treatment of chronic pain is a focus of the modern healthcare system. One of the diseases that can cause chronic pain is called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Those who have RSD struggle with chronic pain that comes from inflammation of the nerves. This disease can be caused by anything from a twisted ankle to a severe crush injury. There are several treatment options for those who have this disease, such as:

Anti-inflammatory medications such as Tylenol and Motrin
Narcotic and opioid medications for particularly severe cases
Therapeutic Electronic Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy
Surgical transection of the affected nerves

Even though there are several different treatment options, many people still struggle with chronic pain on a daily basis. The impact of this pain can cause people to have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, let alone go to school, work, or take care of their children. Because of this, individuals with this disease and their physicians should always be on the lookout for different treatment options. One such treatment option, called intrathecal drug delivery, was explored for individuals with RSD in a recent research study.

Intrathecal Drug Delivery as a Treatment Option for Chronic Pain

A research study was published in 2015 in the journal of Neuromodulation that explored the role of intrathecal injections for chronic pain treatment, including RSD. For those who may not know, an intrathecal medication is one that is administered through the spine. Because the spinal cord plays a major role in motor and sensory function, the thought is that medications administered via the spine may be effective in treating pain. In the study, individuals who received intrathecal medication were compared with those who did not. Individuals who received intrathecal medication attended follow-up visits every six months for 36 months total. By 36 months, those receiving intrathecal medication injections showed significant improvement in their activity, mood, sleep, and quality of life. This study serves to highlight the potential benefit of intrathecal medications in the treatment of RSD. Furthermore, those who receive intrathecal medications may experience fewer side effects than those taking oral opioid medications. This can lead to a significant improvement in someone’s quality of life.

Role of a Legal Adviser in RSD

In addition to medical treatment, it is important for people with RSD to consider meeting with an experienced legal professional. For the many families who struggle with RSD following a traumatic accident, it is important to have the circumstances of the injury investigated. Furthermore, families may have trouble dealing with the ancillary issues that arise with an RSD diagnosis. This could include getting medical treatment covered, filing for disability and simply filling out the mountain of paperwork. For help with these issues, consider meeting with an RSD lawyer in California. If you decide to go with my team and me, I promise to work as hard as I can to represent your family and your interests. Please, contact me today with any questions or concerns. I would be honored to represent you.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

Everyone is invited to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the photograph at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has yielded permission to show it here.

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Changes in Brain Connectivity Related to Chronic Pain

Posted on September 5, 2018 by admin

Changes in Brain Connectivity Related to Chronic Pain

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. Despite a large number of advances made in the healthcare field over the past few decades, there are still significant, everyday problems that plague the medical system.

While heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are pressing issues, no problem is more common than chronic pain. People who suffer from chronic pain are often required to take daily medication that may do little more than taking the edge off. They may also struggle with a significant stigma that still inappropriately surrounds people who suffer from chronic pain. According to statistics that were published by the American Academy of Pain medicine:

More than 25 percent of people in the United States over the age of 20 reports that they have had pain lasting more than 24 hours
This number is over 75 million people
More than half of people with chronic pain reported that they experienced pain while taking their pain medication
Almost two-thirds of individuals stated that this pain impacted their daily life
Almost everyone said that this pain made it hard to sleep

Pain has an impact on the level of enjoyment that people feel in their life.

One of the diseases that cause chronic pain is called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). While much of the treatment of this disease has focused on the medication used to control pain, it is important to explore alternative options. This is because people still report having breakthrough pain attacks while taking opioid medication. Recently, a research study was published looking at how the neuronal connections in the brain change while someone is dealing with chronic pain from RSD or CRPS.

Results of a Research Study

Recently, a medical study was completed and published in the Pain Physician Journal that analyzed the changes in brain connectivity, use, and function that happen in individuals who experience chronic pain. In the study, individuals were identified who suffered from chronic pain syndromes, such as RSD and CRPS. The researchers used MRI scans to analyze changes in their brain structure and function. MRI is a common imaging technique that is used in individuals who suffer from brain tumors, traumatic brain injuries, and strokes. An MRI can also be used to track the flow of blood throughout the brain. Individuals in the study received MRI scans, and the flow throughout their brain was compared to that of otherwise healthy individuals. The researchers found that people who suffer from chronic pain had significant changes in the flow patterns of blood throughout their brains. Regarding individuals who suffered from RSD, increased blood flow was noted throughout the region of the brain called the anterior cingulate in addition to the amygdala, caudate, and putamen. Because blood carries oxygen and nutrients, this indicates that this area of the brain is more active than other parts and that this area of the brain is more active in individuals with RSD than the average population.

Implications for the Future

Because this study shows that individuals who have chronic pain from RSD have changes in the activity levels of certain areas of their brain, it is important for physicians and researchers to figure out why. If the activity in these areas of the brain is increased due to pain activity, perhaps treatments can target these areas of the brain. Bringing the activity level of this area of the brain back to baseline could prove to be an effective pain treatment for those with this disease. Furthermore, it may also present an alternative treatment for those whose pain medications aren’t providing adequate management of their symptoms.

Help from a Legal Professional

When someone has been diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, it is important to seek the most appropriate medical care available. After this, meeting with an experienced RSD Lawyer in Sacramento can be helpful. A trained and caring lawyer has numerous tools at his or her disposal that can significantly improve a family’s quality of life. While it can be difficult to choose an attorney, it is important that you find someone who listens to your concerns and represents your needs. While I cannot promise or guarantee any specific result or outcome, I can promise that I will work tirelessly for you and your family. Please, call me today with any concerns. I am happy to help.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know is looking for new or alternative treatment options for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please contact me at 916-382-0693. I am willing to provide friendly, free legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the photograph at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has yielded permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 811]

RSD After a Motorcycle Accident

Posted on September 5, 2018 by admin

RSD After a Motorcycle Accident

There are many different modes of transportation and one motor vehicle that receives a lot of attention is the motorcycle. With numerous differences from a car, people who are involved in a motorcycle accident are at a significant risk of sustaining a traumatic injury. This is because motorcycles do not provide any protection between the driver and the road. Furthermore, motorcycles are also much smaller than cars. Therefore, the motorcycle is more likely to fly a significant distance in a serious accident. This is one of the many reasons why motorcycle riders are encouraged to wear a helmet. According to statistics which have been published by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA):

In the year 2013, close to 5,000 motorcycle riders were killed in accidents
During this same year, there were close to 90,000 people who were injured
Motorcycle accident fatalities occur at a rate more than 25 times higher than car accident fatalities
A quarter of the individuals who were killed in motorcycle accidents did not have a valid license.

These statistics demonstrate how deadly motorcycle accidents can be. When someone sustains serious injuries in a motorcycle collision, they may not make a full recovery. One of the chronic conditions that they might end up with is called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). How does this develop after a motorcycle accident and what can be done to treat the symptoms?

How does RSD Develop in a Motorcycle Accident?

For those who don’t know, RSD is a disease that causes chronic pain. In a motorcycle accident, the driver is often thrown from the bike and makes contact with the ground at high speed. Because of this, severe injuries are a possibility. Examples include:

Bone fractures
Internal organ contusions
Traumatic brain injuries
Muscle and ligament tears
Degloving injuries

Because the force of the impact is severe, it is not unusual for the recovery process to take weeks to months. Some people may never make a full recovery. As the body heals, inflammatory cells are rushed to the site of the injury. These cells serve a number of purposes, including:

Fighting off possible infections that may seek to take advantage of a weakened body
Healing some of the damaged cells such as organ tissues, nerves, blood vessels, and ligaments
Removing dead tissue and disposing of it in a proper manner
Stopping any bleeding by forming a blood clot at the site of the injury

Unfortunately, this inflammatory process can also become a bit too aggressive and start to damage healthy tissue as well. In some cases, this can become a chronic medical problem. When the body becomes sidetracked and attacks an otherwise healthy nerve, the brain can interpret this as pain. This is how RSD develops, and the pain could become permanent.

What are the Treatment Options Available for RSD After a Motorcycle Accident?

Someone who has developed RSD has several treatment options available to them. It is important to understand these treatment choices so that people can make an educated decision on what is best for them. Examples of some of the treatment choices include:

Pain Medication: Pain medications scale in their strength. Of course, with stronger pain medications come more risks. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as Motrin and Advil, are often the first step. If these don’t work, opioid and narcotic medications, such as Vicodin and Percocet, are other options. It is important to note that these medications can become addictive.

Nerve Injections: Nerve injections (or nerve blocks) are a mainstay of treatment. In this injection, the problem nerve is identified, and a trained physician will inject an analgesic, such as lidocaine, into the nerve to numb it. This injection is good for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It will eventually wear off and need to be repeated.

Surgical Options: In severe cases, a nerve transection may be a permanent treatment option. The problem nerve is identified and cut. Of course, this also severs all motor and sensory functions of the nerve as well. It is important to discuss this with a medical professional before making this choice.

Ultimately, someone who develops RSD following a motorcycle accident is likely to develop a wide variety of complications. This is one of the many reasons why it is important to understand the treatment options that are available. Those who have questions or concerns should meet with a caring and compassionate RSD attorney in Sacramento. You and your family could be entitled to financial compensation.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident and subsequently developed Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I’m available to provide free and friendly legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the image at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has granted permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 845]

Virtual Reality in the Treatment of RSD

Posted on September 4, 2018 by admin

Virtual Reality in the Treatment of RSD

Chronic pain is one of the most common medical complaints that doctors see. Those who live with chronic pain can have difficulty getting out of bed in the morning, walking up and down stairs, and even staying in school or keeping a job. While many people with chronic pain may feel like they are alone, the reality is that millions of people across the country deal with chronic pain on a regular basis. A study that was published by the American Pain Society shows that:

About 50 million people in the United States suffer from either severe or chronic pain
Half of these people reported that their pain was chronic and the other half reported that their pain was severe
About 50 percent of these individuals reported that their pain was well-controlled or improving

Clearly, chronic pain is a common problem. It is more common than obesity, cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Because of this, it is important to understand where the chronic pain comes from. One of the diseases that can lead to chronic pain is called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). With this disease, people suffer from severe, intractable pain in one or more of their limbs. This typically starts after a traumatic accident that leads to severe damage to the nerves that run through this limb. The pain from RSD can be severe, and people should know about the various treatment options available to them.

Treatment Options for RSD

When someone has been diagnosed with RSD, they are likely to experience a wide variety of symptoms. Many people describe the pain as a shooting, stabbing, shock-like, or burning sensation. They may also undergo changes in the texture of their skin and nails in addition to describing changes in the temperature of the affected area. Because the symptoms can vary so widely from person to person, there are also different treatment options available. Examples include:

Anti-inflammatory medications, such as Tylenol and Motrin
Opioid or narcotic medications, such as Vicodin, Oxycontin, or Percocet
Nerve blocks or injections directly into large bundles of nerves that feed the affected limb using medications such as lidocaine
Nerve transections, where the nerves are surgically cut to remove all signaling between the limb and the brain

Unfortunately, all of these treatments have their side effects. Opioid medications can lead to addictive behavior which might lead to an overdose. Nerve blocks and transections also carry their risks, such as permanent numbness or loss of function of the limb itself. Because all of these treatments have side effects, research is being done to open up new treatment options. One possible example involves new virtual reality technology.

Virtual Reality can be Used in the Treatment of RSD

Recently, a team of research professionals published a new study exploring the possible use of virtual reality in the treatment of RSD. In this study, the researchers took two dozen patients with RSD and compared them to two dozen individuals who were otherwise healthy. They placed these individuals in a completely immersive virtual reality environment. Then, the individuals were shown imaging of their affected limb in the virtual world in real time. The researchers then made the affected limb flash in rhythm with the patient’s heartbeat. The heartbeat was measured using medical equipment. The researchers subsequently asked the individuals to rate their pain before and after several trips into this VR field.

The results of the study showed that this heartbeat-enhanced world of virtual reality led to significant improvements in the pain ratings of the individuals with RSD. Furthermore, the VR field also led to an improved motor function of the affected limb. These improvements were also not seen in the healthy control group, showing that the improvement was likely due to the virtual reality field. There was no placebo effect seen. This study shows that virtual reality, while still in the early phases, may prove promising as an effective treatment method for individuals with RSD.

Based on this information, it should be clear that individuals with RSD can experience severe symptoms that have a large impact on their quality of life. They can have difficulty sticking to their daily routine which can fracture relationships with their family and friends. Because of this, families should meet with an experienced RSD attorney in Sacramento. It is important to look at every detail because you and your loved ones may be entitled to financial compensation.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know is looking for new treatment options for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide callers with free and friendly legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the image at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has granted permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 831]

What Types of Nerve Injections are Helpful for RSD?

Posted on September 4, 2018 by admin

What Types of Nerve Injections are Helpful for RSD?

The central and peripheral nervous systems are vital for proper bodily function. Together, the send and receive signals, helping to coordinate the various actions of the body’s limbs and organs. Like other parts of the body, these nerves can be injured, and chronic medical problems can result. There are several ways that the peripheral nerves can be injured. According to a paper that has been published by the National Institute of Health (NIH), these include:

Trauma: Trauma is one of the most common ways that people develop nerve damage. In some cases, this can be from a sudden, traumatic accident, such as a car accident or a fall injury. In other cases, it might be from repetitive stress, such as that from sports.

Blood Vessel Disease: Like other parts of the body, the nerves require a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients to perform its functions. This is carried by blood vessels. Diseases that impair flow through the vessels, such as diabetes and obesity, can lead to nerve damage.

Autoimmune Diseases: An autoimmune disease occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own cells. In some cases, this can involve the destruction of the peripheral nerves, leading to damage to the peripheral nervous system.

When the nerves become damaged, this can result in chronic pain. One of the diseases that can cause chronic pain from nerve damage is called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). There are several different treatments available for this disease, one of which is a nerve injection. Where is this given and what are the medication options?

Possible Medications for a Nerve Injection

A nerve injection delivers a dose of an analgesic pain medication into an irritated nerve. Because RSD often develops because of damage to an isolated limb, this is a good treatment option. Several medications are available for nerve injections. Common examples include:

Lidocaine: Lidocaine is one of the most common pain medications around. Lidocaine blocks the sodium channels in the nerves. Sodium is an ion that is important for the spreading of nerve conduction signals. By blocking these channels, lidocaine will inhibit the propagation of nerve conduction signals up and down the nerve.

Steroids: A steroid injection is a slightly different method of controlling pain. In a steroid injection, the body’s inflammatory response is blunted. By reducing the strength of the inflammatory response, the nerve damage associated with RSD can be controlled.

Some of the needles that are placed in nerves can even use ice or heat to tone down the pain responses in the nerves themselves.

Locations for a Nerve Injection

There are several different locations that this nerve injection for RSD can be delivered. Once the problem nerve in RSD has been isolated, it can be targeted, and the pain can be controlled. Common examples of RSD nerve blocks include:

Brachial Plexus Nerve Block: For those who have developed RSD in one of their upper extremities, this can be helpful. A block placed in the brachial plexus can be used to remove pain in the upper and lower arm.

Cervical Nerve Block: A cervical nerve block can also target RSD in the upper extremity. A block in this nerve will help numb the shoulder and upper back areas.

Saphenous Nerve Block: A saphenous nerve block is used to treat pain in the lower extremities. A block of the saphenous nerve will numb the inside of the leg.

When someone has been diagnosed with RSD, it is important to explore all of the different treatment options that are available, including a nerve block. Once people have sought the best medical treatment available, it is a good idea to meet with an experienced RSD attorney in Sacramento. You and your family may be entitled to financial compensation.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has concerns about nerve injections with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide free and friendly legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the image at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has granted permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 713]

Living with Chronic Pain from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Posted on August 28, 2018 by admin

Living with Chronic Pain from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

There are many different chronic diseases out there that can have significant effects on the health of the afflicted individual. While it is important to think about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of these diseases, it is just as vital to consider the many different negative impacts that this can have on the quality of life of the person and their family. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is a debilitating disease of the nervous system that can lead to significant symptoms in one or more extremities. There are many different causes of this disease, such as:

A traumatic injury, such as a bone fracture
Complications of a major surgical procedure
Inflammation following a severe illness
An autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack itself

In some cases, the true cause of the disease may never be known. When someone has been diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), it can have a significant impact on their life and the lives of their loved ones. It is normal to feel like living with chronic pain from RSD is a significant burden; however, it is important to know that help is available and nobody has to face these challenges alone. What are some of the issues that a family living with RSD may have to face?

Living with RSD: Inability to Work

When someone has developed RSD, there are a variety of symptoms that they might experience. One of them is intense, shooting pain down one of the arms or into their hands. For people who use their hands for work, such as welders, carpenters, or even people who type on the computer, they may find it impossible to do their job. With the pain, joint stiffness, and swelling that often accompanies RSD, the inability to efficiently move the fingers and hands could make work an impossible task. Without this work, what is a family going to do? Will they lose the income from their career? How is a family going to eat?

Mobility Issues: Activities of Daily Living

If RSD shows up in one of the legs or feet, it can make it difficult to walk, let alone run. The activities that many people take for granted on a daily basis start to become an arduous journey; however, there can be intense pain that comes with moving the affected limb. Something as simple as walking to the mailbox to check the mail can seem impossible. The same can be said for mowing the lawn, cleaning the house, cooking meals, and doing the laundry. This can place a large burden on the rest of the family, making some people wonder how they are going to maintain the home.

Sleep Issues

One of the often overlooked issues related to RSD is the loss of sleep that comes with the pain. When people are up and about during the day, they are often focused on what they are doing. The pain can sometimes move to the back of someone’s mind if they are busy with a certain task. When people are lying in bed at night, not thinking about anything else, the pain becomes the only focus. Because of this, many people with RSD have difficulty sleeping. This loss of restful sleep can impact every area of someone’s life.

The Potential of Surgery

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) is thought to be caused by over-activation of the sympathetic nervous system. When the nerves become irritated or inflamed, they start to send signals to the brain that cause the symptoms that people with RSD are familiar with. This can include intense pain, mobility issues, and joint stiffness. One of the treatment options that people may be offered is called a sympathetic nerve block. This can block the signals from the sympathetic nerves, helping to reduce the symptoms that cause lots of quality of life issues. If this doesn’t work, people may have to have surgery. This procedure is called a total sympathectomy and involves cutting the sympathetic nerves to blunt the signals entirely. Even though this is a drastic option, it has been shown to be effective for people with RSD. There are numerous risks that come with cutting these nerve endings, including loss of motor and sensory function. It is important for families to discuss this procedure with their surgeon before having surgery.

Long-Term Medical Care

Perhaps one of the biggest issues that families with RSD face is that of long-term medical care. Because of the chronic nature of the disease, many people with RSD require long-term medical care. One of the treatments that are often prescribed is pain medication. Because of the pain that comes with RSD, opioid medication is sometimes prescribed. There are many side effects of these pain medications, including:

Hallucinations and delusions
Respiratory depression
Heart arrhythmias
Dizziness or vertigo
Nausea and vomiting

Perhaps one of the biggest side effects is addiction. Because of the addictive nature of these medications, people are often hesitant to take them. Those who do take them can develop a tolerance, where they need more of the medication to achieve the same effect. This can create significant problems for a family as people wonder if their loved one has become addicted to pain medication. Fortunately, there is help available.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Attorney in Sacramento. If you or someone you care about has sustained developed Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I would be happy to share friendly, free legal advice with your family.

Feel free to look at our sample results here.

Pixabay hosted the original photo at the start of this page. It has been shown here under the CC0 License.

:dr llo [cs 985]

The Role of the Central Nervous System in RSD

Posted on August 8, 2018 by admin

The Role of the Central Nervous System in RSD

There are millions of people who live with a chronic medical condition in the United States. Examples include obesity, diabetes, chronic lung disease, and congestive heart failure. One long-term medical condition that is often overlooked is chronic pain. Despite the stigma that often surrounds this disease, people who live with chronic pain have significant quality of life issues. Pain can prevent them from participating in activities with their loved ones and can even lead to personality changes. According to a recent study that was published by the American Academy of Pain Medicine (AAPM):

Over half of the individuals surveyed admitted to having severe pain (such as back pain, musculoskeletal pain, or nerve pain) at some point in the two weeks before the study
About one in eight individuals had missed at least one day of work in the past two weeks
On average, the individuals surveyed lost close to 5 hours of work per week due to chronic pain
This missed time from work cost the economy over $60 billion
About three-quarters of this lost income was not due to missed work but due to decreased work performance by those who tried to fill in for the missing person

Why is this pain so severe and why do people miss work? One possible explanation could be a diagnosis of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), which has also been called Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This is a disease of the nervous system which can produce extreme symptoms.

The Role of the Central Nervous System

The body relies on a complex network of nerves to transmit signals where they need to go. The brain and spinal cord make up the central nervous system and use nerves to transmit motor commands to the rest of the body. The central nervous system also receives sensory inputs via nerves that return from the limbs, chest, torso and other organs. The central nervous system also relies on chemical signals, called hormones, to modulate various bodily functions. The central nervous system is responsible for interpreting signals from the nerves that transmit:

Pain
Touch
Temperature
Pressure
Proprioception, also called coordination, of the limbs

Some diseases, such as RSD, can cause problems with the central nervous system. These problems can be interpreted by the brain as severe pain.

RSD as a Disease of the Central Nervous System

RSD can have an extreme impact on the central nervous system. Research studies have been completed which demonstrate that individuals with RSD process signals from the peripheral nerves differently. Examples of changes in signal processing include:

Issues processing painful stimuli
Evidence of hypersensitivity to touch
Problems interpreting temperature changes
Changes in the somatomotor system (sweat glands, hair growth, blood vessel modulation)

This is evidence that RSD is a systemic disease and could help explain why RSD could develop from something as trivial as a sprained ankle. If the central system misinterprets one signal from the periphery, such as with a sprained ankle, it could lead to chronic, life-long symptoms. Therefore, treatments should center around targeting the central nervous system as the source of such severe symptoms. Examples of possible treatment options include sympathetic nerve blocks targeting these problematic nerves and even sympathectomies, or transections of the sympathetic nervous system.

People who are living with RSD often have to miss work due to severe pain. Furthermore, this disease could even be triggered by a traumatic accident in the workplace. Because of the severe symptoms and missed work time that this illness can cause, individuals and their families should meet with an RSD attorney in Sacramento. The circumstances of the diagnosis deserve to be investigated to the fullest extent possible.

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has been having issues with pain due to Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide friendly, free legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

Image Citation: Pixabay hosted the image at the start of this page. The CC0 Creative Commons License has granted permission to show it here.

:dr llo [cs 692]