Do I Have Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
Complex regional pain syndrome is a chronic condition that typically lasts six months or longer. It commonly affects one limb, such as a leg, foot, arm, or hand, usually after an injury to that limb.
Complex regional pain syndrome can also occur after a surgical procedure, stroke, or heart attack. When someone develops this condition, it means that some damage or malfunction to either the peripheral or central nervous systems has occurred.
It is a rare condition that typically affects less than 200,000 patients per year. Because of this, your physical therapist will want to conduct a comprehensive exam to make sure you are indeed experiencing complex regional pain syndrome.
At your initial appointment, your Knoxville, TN physical therapist will perform a physical examination to test the range of motion and mobility of your affected limb. They will also ask questions regarding your severity of pain and how long it has persisted.
Additional symptoms associated with complex regional pain syndrome include:
- Intense pain, sensitivity, and/or tenderness in the affected limb or surrounding nerves
- Muscle spasms or contractions
- “Pins and needles” sensations
- Tingling or burning sensations
- Severe sweating
- Nervous system dysfunction
- Redness, stiffness, and swelling in the affected limb
- Headaches
- Depression
If you believe you may be living with complex regional pain syndrome, don’t hesitate to contact Forward Physical Therapy today. Our dedicated and experienced physical therapists will assess the nature of your condition to design the best treatment plan for your personal needs. Don’t live in pain any longer – find relief with physical therapy.
What Is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy?
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is a kind of regional pain syndrome that occurs as a result of complications with your immune system and sympathetic nervous system. RSD often results in debilitating pain and discomfort that can last for several weeks or even months.
RSD causes swelling, stiffness, burning sensations, muscle spasms, and a plethora of other symptoms. You can experience RSD in several parts of your body, including upper and lower extremities, hips, and knees.
Forward Physical Therapy in Knoxville, TN specializes in treating conditions such as RSD. Call our physical therapy clinic for treatment if you’re struggling with reflex sympathetic dystrophy or another chronic condition. Our therapists are experts in pain management and relief, and will stop at nothing to diminish your discomfort and restore your quality of life!
Causes And Symptoms Of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
Causes
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy occurs as a result of nerve damage received to the sympathetic nervous system and the immune system.
When these nerves are damaged, it causes your brain to over signal the presence of pain.
If you have an underlying condition such as cancer, emotional stress, nerve pressure, or have experienced a stroke, it can also cause the development of RSD. You may also be more likely to have this condition if you are a woman between the ages of 40 and 60. Your doctor can help to determine your risk for RSD.
Symptoms
There are several symptoms of reflex sympathetic dystroph. Healthline outlines them. A few of the most prominent ones are as follows:
- discomfort
- pain or burning sensation
- swelling
- sensitivity to heat or cold
- weakness
- skin redness
- muscle weakness
- muscle spasms
- muscle atrophy
- nail and hair changes
If you experience these symptoms, a physical therapist at Forward Physical Therapy in Knoxville, TN may be able to help you find relief.
How Can Physical Therapy In Knoxville, TN Help Me Find Relief From RSD?
If you are diagnosed with RSD, physical therapy at Forward Physical Therapy in Knoxville, TN may help you to regain mobility and motion in the affected area. Physical therapy can also improve circulation and blood flow. Your therapist may employ a variety of treatment methods, including:Custom Ul ListingVisualTextParagraphCustom Ul ListingVisualTextParagraph
Your physical therapy treatment will also include exercises and flexibility training to improve the range of motion in the affected limb. Over the course of your treatment, your strength will be restored and the stress on your nerves will lessen.
Request an appointment in Knoxville, TN today
If you have been diagnosed with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, or you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, call Forward Physical Therapy in Knoxville, TN today for a full-body evaluation. Our therapists will assess your symptoms and pain levels to create the right treatment program aimed at providing you with relief from RSD.
Request an appointment today, and say goodbye to living in discomfort.
Your Next Steps…
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