The Injury Hub
Reflex Symphatetic Dystrophy (RSD): Info, Symptoms & Treatment.
Our Chartered Physiotherapists across Ireland are experts in the causes, symptoms and treatment of RSD.
The Injury Hub: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)
What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)?
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy syndrome (RSD) is a complex multi-symptom pain syndrome affecting a limb or limbs that can affect any one of any age. It usually occurs following tissue damage to the limb, but it can also be triggered by visceral diseases, central nervous system lesions or from unknown causes.
How We Can Help.
Symptoms, Treatment & How We Can Help Your Recovery.
Learn about common RSD injury symptoms, effective treatments, and how our expert team supports your recovery journey every step of the way.
Symptoms Of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy
RSD can strike at any age, but is more common between the ages of 40 and 60. It affects both men and women, but is most frequently seen in women. Although it is more common in the older age groups, the number of RSD cases among adolescents and young adults is increasing.
It often affects the hand or foot, but may also involve the knee, hip, shoulder, or other sites. The main symptom of RSD is severe pain, often burning in nature.
The disorder may eventually result in dystrophy (weakness or wasting) of the area. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are very important if RSD is to be successfully managed.
Treatment With Physiotherapy
There is no single test for diagnosing RSD. Diagnosis is a clinical one and is made through observation of the patient’s signs and symptoms. When diagnosed and treated within the first 3 to 6 months, there is the highest possibility of cure and treatment of RSD is most effective.
The most important element of treating RSD syndrome is restoring normal movement to the affected part. This condition is easiest to treat in its early phases. Much of the treatment is based on a courageous effort of the patient to get the hand or foot moving again, even if it is uncomfortable. A formal Physiotherapy exercise and movement programme and other treatments may help maintain flexibility and strength.
A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) unit (see Electrotherapy) or biofeedback may be tried. A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated device which relieves pain by blocking nerve impulses. Biofeedback is a technique which can help control pain, blood flow, and skin temperature.
Our Expertise
Our physiotherapists are highly trained and qualified to provide expert care to our patients. They are fully insured and are chartered by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP).
We have team of Clinical leads who visits our physios and clinics to ensure a level of customer service and quality care that exceeds our competition is given to patients every time.
Our patient’s health journeys
How Much Does It Cost?
Please refer to our individual clinic location pages for pricing information.
What Are Your Clinic Hours?
Monday – Friday: 8am to 8pm
Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sunday: Closed
*Please note, opening times can vary between clinics
Where Is This Service Available?
This service is available in any of our nationwide clinics.
Am I Covered By Health Insurance?
We work with all major insurers – Vhi, Laya and Irish Life. We recommend you check your own policy for its terms and conditions to see what cover you have.
How Do I Contact You?
Our Patient Services team is available to help you Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Call Us: 01 611 1740
Spectrum Physio
You’re In Good Hands.
We’ve treated over 250,000 patients across our nationwide clinics.
