Mirror Therapy for RSD

Among the various reasons that someone may visit their healthcare provider, chronic pain is the most common. Most people have felt the acute pain that comes with stubbing their toe or slamming their hand in a car door; however, chronic pain can be devastating. For those who live with chronic pain, they undoubtedly know how this can impact their lives. It can make it hard to think straight, keep emotions in check, and even interact with family and friends. According to a study that was recently published by the National Institute of Health and the American Pain Society:

• Almost 50 million people are living with chronic pain in the United States.
• About half of these individuals suffer from chronic pain on a daily basis.
• The same number rated their pain as “severe.”
• Based on the study, people who rate their pain as severe are likely to require disability services because of their pain.
• Despite this, many of these individuals still rated their overall health as “adequate.”

The results of this study show that, even though millions of people are suffering from chronic pain, they still believe that their health is fine. This is a sad reality, showing that many people may have simply gotten used to their pain. One of the diseases that cause chronic pain is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Those who live with this disease can deal with intractable pain on a daily basis. Because of this, it is vital to try and find other ways to help people who are living with chronic pain. This depends on a well-balanced treatment approach.

The Treatment Options of RSD

There are many different treatment choices for people who live with RSD. This disease can impact every facet of someone’s life, so the treatment strategy must depend on a well-rounded approach. This means:

• Medications: Examples of possible medications include anti-inflammatory pills (such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen) along with narcotic medications, such as Vicodin or Percocet.
• Nerve Injections: For those whose pain is not well-controlled with medications, nerve injections are also an option. In this treatment, a small dose of analgesic is injected directly into the problem nerve. This can provide effective pain relief.
• Emotional Support: Those who live with RSD are at a greater risk of suffering from mental health issues. Counseling is important to manage emotional distress.

Unfortunately, for many people, this isn’t enough. Now, there is a new treatment choice for those who are struggling with RSD.

Mirror Therapy can be Helpful

Recently, a study was published discussing the potential use of mirror therapy as a treatment for RSD. Mirror therapy first made headlines as a treatment choice for those who suffer from phantom limb pain following an amputation; however, this study showed that is can be effective for managing pain from RSD. The idea behind the treatment therapy is to retrain the mind. When people with RSD move their affected limb, the pain often gets worse. By placing a mirror next to the healthy limb, their mind can be trained to think that the impacted limb is moving without pain. In a sense, this creates a visual illusion that can help people ultimately move their affected limb pain-free. Follow-up studies have been published demonstrating the effectiveness of mirror therapy in treating RSD along with a number of other conditions. For those who may be looking for alternative treatment choices, mirror therapy could provide some relief.

In the end, RSD is a challenging disease to manage. For this reason, those with questions should meet with an experienced RSD attorney in Sacramento today.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome I and II
• Tests for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has been having trouble treating a diagnosis 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.

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Management of Sleep Issues with RSD

There are lots of different medical conditions that people might see a doctor for. According to a recent research study, one of the most common symptoms is chronic pain. Recently, a survey was completed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In this survey, researchers asked many different people about the various levels of pain that they experience. According to their statistics:

• About 25 million Americans indicated that they had at some point experienced level 3 pain
• Around 14 million people indicated that they had felt level 4 pain, the highest rating available on the scale
• People who rated their pain as a 3 or a four were more likely to see a doctor and use the healthcare system

These statistics are alarming and indicate just how severe someone’s pain can be. In addition to controlling pain, there are lots of other complications that arise that need to be addressed. Those who suffer from chronic pain, such as that from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), can develop a wide variety of other complications. Examples of these include:

• The development of mental health disorders, such as depression
• A severe reduction in their ability to engage in the activities that they enjoy
• Difficulty falling asleep at night
• Difficulty staying asleep once in bed

It is important to address these complications, and the issues with sleep are often overlooked. Why is this the case and what are some of the solutions for people who struggle with sleep problems?

Difficulty Sleeping with RSD

Having trouble sleeping when struggling with chronic pain, such as that from RSD, is not unusual. The main reason why people stay up at night is their pain. If their pain is not well-controlled, it is almost impossible to fall asleep because it is hard to get into a comfortable position. Another reason why RSD can cause issues is anxiety. Anxiety is known to keep people awake and people with RSD might worry about:

• School attendance
• Work attendance
• Relationships with family and friends

It is important for people to talk about their emotions with a professional counselor so that their mental health can be kept in check. People with chronic pain are known to have higher rates of depression, which should be monitored.

Solutions for Poor Sleep with RSD

When people are having trouble sleeping, several interventions can be tried to improve sleep. In addition to pain control, it is important to think about sleep hygiene. This can help everyone fall asleep easier, including those with chronic pain. Examples of these include:

• Avoid caffeinated beverages, particularly after lunch. Caffeine can keep people awake.
• Avoid having a television or radio in the bedroom as these can be stimulating and make it hard to fall asleep, particularly when used within an hour of bed.
• Try to invest in blackout curtains that can make the room darker.
• While exercise is important, try to avoid exercising within an hour of bed because adrenaline can keep people up.

Help is Available

For people who have trouble sleeping and managing a disease with chronic pain, such as RSD, it is important to know that there are people out there who are willing to provide assistance. Seeing an experienced healthcare provider is always a good idea because they have access to tools and resources that might help people recover from their symptoms. In addition, it is also a good idea to meet with an experienced RSD attorney in Sacramento. It is vital to have a legal professional look at the case because important details may have been missed. You and your family could be entitled to receive financial compensation from a negligent party that caused your condition. Call for more information.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?
• Experimental Treatment Options for People with RSD

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know has been having trouble with their sleep while living with 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.

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What Causes an RSD Flare?

Nobody should ever have to live their life in pain, which is what makes chronic pain such as devastating syndrome to treat. Those who have experienced prolonged pain understand the despair that often sets in. Some individuals may feel like there isn’t any hope for controlling their pain at all; however, understanding where the chronic pain comes from can go a long way towards finding a treatment option. According to some of the information and statistics which have been published by the National Institute of Health (NIH):

• The number of Americans who suffer from chronic pain is more than those suffering from cancer, diabetes, and heart disease put together
• According to our health care system, chronic pain is the most frequently cited reason for seeing a healthcare provider
• Chronic pain is one of the leading contributors to health care costs
• Chronic pain is the number one reason why people require disability
• About a quarter of all Americans have suffered from pain that has lasted more than 24 hours at some time in their life
• Pain is one of the biggest barriers to those who require medical treatment for other serious conditions

The reasons why people suffer from pain is just as varied as the scope and severity of the pain itself. For this reason, it is vital to understand why people may suffer from chronic pain to begin with. One of the most severe causes of pain is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). When someone has this disease, they suffer from severe pain due to some form of nerve damage in one of their limbs. This pain can prevent them from enjoying their hobbies, keeping a job, or finishing school. When an RSD flare occurs, this pain can even prevent them from getting out of bed in the morning. Because of this, the causes of an RSD flare must be examined.

What is an RSD Flare?

An RSD flare is a temporary increase in the severity of someone’s symptoms. Some individuals with RSD may have a variety of symptoms. Common symptoms include pain (often described as a burning, shock-like, or tearing sensation), changes in the temperature of the affected body part, and even changes in hair or nail growth. When an RSD flare occurs, these symptoms get worse. The length of an RSD flare can vary from a few seconds to multiple days. Eventually, this worsening pain fades and the symptoms return to baseline. During a flare, the pain can be exquisitely painful. Therefore, it is important to address how a flare happens so that the number of flares can be minimized.

What are some Causes of an RSD Flare?

There are a few common causes for an RSD flare; however, these causes can vary from person to person. Someone may have a specific trigger while other people may have multiple triggers. Some examples of frequent triggers include:

• Changes in the weather outside, such as temperature or precipitation
• Changes in elevation, such as ascending or descending too quickly
• Alterations in diet
• Exercise-induced, including strength training and cardio
• Certain smells or scents

An RSD flare is one of the most challenging parts of this disease. It is important for everyone to know what their triggers are and to ask for help when it is needed. Managing this disease is a team sport.

When someone does have RSD, it is important to have a comprehensive treatment approach that addresses all facets of the disease and its consequences. Because of this, it is a good idea to meet with a compassionate RSD attorney in Sacramento. It is important to examine all details of the diagnosis and possible causes to ensure that nothing has been overlooked.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome I and II
• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy from Electrical Injuries

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you’ve been diagnosed with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy after a motor vehicle accident, please call me at (916)-382-0693. I am available to provide you with free, friendly legal advice.

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Addiction in RSD Patients

Those who have been paying attention to the national news recently have noticed that the opioid crisis has been dominating the media cycles. This is a pressing issue with millions of people dying due to overdoses on an annual basis. According to information from the American Medical Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and numerous other medical governing bodies, some of the reasons behind this increase in the number of opioid deaths include:

• An increase in the rate of prescriptions for opioid and narcotic medications being generated
• An influx of illicit prescription medications on the streets
• A rise in the numbers of illicit drugs such as cocaine and heroin
• A change in the way drug cartels are “cutting” their medications, making them inherently more dangerous
• A significant stigma around individuals who struggle with addiction, specifically that of alcohol and opioids

For individuals who struggle with a diagnosis of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), this is a significant problem. One of the mainstays of treatment of this debilitating syndrome is pain medication. For those with severe symptoms, this can include narcotic and opioid medication. Because of this, it is important for not only the individual but also their family members to think about the treatment of this disease, the medications used, and ways to prevent addiction from developing.

The Risks of Opioid Medications

One of the hallmark symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is the pain. This pain comes from inflammation of the nerves that feed the affected limb. The signals from these nerves are transmitted to the brain and are interpreted as pain. Therefore, one of the essential treatments is pain medication. This starts with medications such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen; however, this can progress to opioid and narcotic medications. Some of the risks of these medications include:

• Altered Mental Status
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Respiratory Depression
• Addiction

As people take these medications, they can become dependent on them to function. Therefore, people should be aware of some of the warning signs of addiction.

Warning Signs of Addiction

There are several signs that someone could be developing an addiction. Some of the issues that people should watch out for include:

• Withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating, rapid heart rate, and fast breathing
• Difficulty sleeping at night without the medication
• Having trouble making it to the next scheduled dose
• Requiring the medication more frequently than before
• Requiring more medication than previously

This can go by several names including tolerance and dependence; however, all of these are signs of a possible addiction. Anyone exhibiting these signs should speak to their doctor as soon as possible.

Legal Help is Available

For families struggling with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, help is available. Many people develop this syndrome following a traumatic accident of some kind. In these situations, speaking with an experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento can be helpful. An experienced legal professional can conduct a full investigation and review all of the available options with the individual and their family. Please, don’t be nervous about asking for legal help when it is needed.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• Causes of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Complications of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Contact an Experienced Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If you or a family member has developed this painful condition, please give me a call at 916-382-0693 for free, friendly advice.

See our sample results here.

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What is a Nerve Conduction Study?

The nerves play an important role in the body as they carry signals between the brain and every other cell, tissue, organ, and limb. The nerves help to coordinate the actions of all of these cells to ensure that they work together to perform their functions appropriately. Like any other organ, the nerves can malfunction and lead to a wide variety of disease processes. Recently, some of the statistics published by the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed some vital information on neurological disorders. This report showed that:

• 50 million people have some sort of seizure disorder, such as epilepsy
• Close to 24 million people have developed dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease
• Close to 7 million people die each year because of a neurological disease
• Many of these people do not have access to appropriate medical care

Some of these individuals even have a neurological disorder that leads to chronic pain. One example of this is a disease called Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Unfortunately, it is common to hear about someone who has been diagnosed with this disorder only after undergoing a battery of tests and being misdiagnosed with another disorder many times. Therefore, it is essential to understand what tests are available to try and arrive at the correct answer sooner.

The Standard Diagnostic Tests of RSD

Several tests can be used in the diagnosis of RSD. While none of these alone can provide a definitive diagnosis, they can be correlated with clinical symptoms to support a diagnosis of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.

X-ray: An x-ray is a quick, cheap, and easy first step. Someone who has RSD will often show erosions in their bones that are signs of both older injuries and inflammatory damage. In some cases, a bone scan can even be used to get a more detailed picture of the bones themselves.

Thermography: A relatively new test, thermography can also be helpful when trying to diagnose RSD. In thermography, a specialized probe is used to measure blood supply to an area of the body. They are also used to measure the temperature of that site specifically. A limb that has been affected with RSD often has changes in its temperature and blood flow that will show up on this test.

Skin Sensitivity: Skin sensitivity testing is exactly what it sounds like. When someone has nerve irritation from RSD, their skin is hypersensitive to touch. This will show up on a skin sensitivity test and support a diagnosis of RSD.

While all of these tests are important, perhaps the most crucial test is a nerve conduction study.

Nerve Conduction Studies in the Diagnosis of RSD

A nerve conduction study can sound scary; however, it is necessary to make an RSD diagnosis. RSD comes from damage to the nerves that feed a specific part of the body. Therefore, to make this diagnosis, the nerves themselves must be tested. In a nerve conduction study, a needle is inserted into the nerve itself. Then, electrical equipment is used to measure the speed of the signals from the nervous system that flows through the nerve. If someone has RSD, the nerve should be irritated and demonstrate the misfiring of signals. In some cases, these signals flow too quickly. In other cases, they may flow too slowly. Uncoordinated, abnormal signals in an affected nerve in a nerve conduction study is one of the cornerstones of an RSD diagnosis.

When someone is suffering from chronic pain, it is essential to consider all of the tests that are available. Sometimes, these tests can even lead to a diagnosis of RSD. When this happens, it is important to meet with an RSD attorney in Sacramento. The details of the diagnosis should be examined from every angle because you may be entitled to financial compensation.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• Experimental Treatment Options for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Coping with Symptoms of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

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

See some of our sample results here.

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PET Scans can be Helpful in the Diagnosis of RSD

When someone is involved in a traumatic accident, there are a lot of different injuries that they are at risk of sustaining. For example, according to statistics that have been published by the American Academy of Orthopedics:

• The most common type of risk fracture in people under age 75 is a wrist fracture
• Of all of the musculoskeletal injuries sustained in the United States annually, bone fractures comprise 16 percent
• Over 6 million bone fractures occur in the United States every year
• Over 3 million people visit the emergency room each year for a bone fracture

To help diagnose these injuries, there are several different scans that people might receive. Examples of these scans include:

X-ray: An x-ray is the oldest type of radiology scan. It uses radiation to produce an image based on density. Dense substances, such as bone, appear white. Light substances, such as air, appear dark.

CT-Scan: A newer type of scan, a CT (computed tomography) scan is an x-ray that is taken in three dimensions. It still produces an image based on density; however, it provides more detail because it is in three dimensions.

MRI: Short for magnetic resonance imaging, an MRI uses a powerful magnet and produces its image based on the way molecules in the body respond to this magnet. It takes a long time to perform but provides a detailed image.

Unfortunately, for people who suffer from Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), commonly referred to as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, these scans cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. Recently, a research paper was published discussing the possible utility of a PET scan for RSD diagnostic purposes.

What is a PET scan?

A PET scan is short for Positron Emission Tomography. The purpose of this scan is to demonstrate how various organs and tissues are functioning inside of the body. In this scan, a dye is labeled with a radioactive tracer that will light up on the scan. The scan tracks the various locations that the dye travels. The tracer can be swallowed, breathed in, or injected into an IV line depending on the purpose. If an area of the body has higher levels of activity, the scan will light these areas up. Because of this, a PET scan has proven useful in the diagnosis of cancer, heart disease, and neurological conditions. Now, it may serve a purpose in the diagnosis of RSD as well.

Can PET Scans Help Diagnose RSD?

RSD can be a challenging disorder to diagnose. While there are lots of different tests available, it can be a challenge to make a diagnosis. Recently, a research paper was published discussing the utility of PET scans for RSD. The researchers took two groups of patients and gave them PET scans. The first group of patients had a known diagnosis of RSD. The second group of patients did not have RSD. They injected the radiolabeled dye into the patients and gave them each a PET scan. What they found was that the individuals who had been diagnosed with RSD had higher levels of neurological activity in certain areas of their brain, including the:

• Caudate nucleus
• Globus Pallidus
• Nucleus Accumbens
• Thalamus
• Putamen

Furthermore, individuals with higher activity in these areas of their brain have reported higher pain scores. Therefore, if a PET scan shows more brain activity in these regions, then these individuals may suffer from RSD. In the future, PET scans may become a powerful diagnostic tool for people with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.

When someone has been diagnosed with RSD, there are a number of different issues that can arise. For help with these problems, it is a good idea to meet with an experienced RSD attorney in Sacramento. You and your family could be entitled to financial compensation if someone’s negligence caused your injury.

Related Articles by Ed Smith

• Resources for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Complications of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Contact an Experienced RSD Attorney in Sacramento

I’m Ed Smith, an RSD Lawyer in Sacramento. If someone you know needs help with a diagnosis of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, please call me at 916-382-0693. I am available to provide free, friendly legal advice.

Everyone is asked to look at my sample results here.

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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

• Causes of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Pathophysiology of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Prevention of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

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.

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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

• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy from Electrical Injuries
• Key Differences Between CRPS 1 and CRPS 2
• Prevention of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

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.

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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

• Experimental Treatment Options for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Pathophysiology of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Physical and Occupation Therapy for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

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?

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

• The Importance of Exercise with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
• Exploring the Triggers of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

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]