If you're suffering from chronic pain after being involved in a car accident or suffering a workplace injury, you may have developed a serious condition known as Reflex Sympathy Dystrophy (RSD). Reflex Sympathy Dystrophy, also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can have a debilitating effect on those individuals who are diagnosed with this condition.

What Causes Reflex Sympathy Dystrophy?

While research has yielded some clues about what may trigger RSD, there is no definitive answer as to why it occurs. In cases where the victim suffered a serious injury as the result of a car accident, workplace accident or a fall, Reflex Sympathy Dystrophy is thought to be the result of traumatic damage to the nerve and the surrounding tissue. An injury that causes disruption in the transmission of signals to and from the sympathetic nervous system can result in the development of a chronic pain condition.

What Are the Symptoms of RSD/Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Patients diagnosed with RSD typically experience a wide range of symptoms and the condition is generally localized to a specific limb, although symptoms may develop in other parts of the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of RSD/Complex Regional Pain Syndrome include:

• Continuous burning or throbbing pain
• Sensitivity to touch or cold
• Swelling of the affected limb
• Changes in skin temperature
• Changes in skin color
• Changes in hair and nail growth
• Joint stiffness or swelling
• Muscle spams or loss of muscle tone
• Limited mobility in the affected limb

If you experience any of these symptoms following a traffic accident or other injury, it's recommended that you speak with your physician to determine the source of your chronic pain. Diagnosing RSD/CRPS can take time but it is necessary in order to develop a suitable course of treatment to help manage your symptoms.

If You Developed RSD Following an Accident

Individuals who are diagnosed with RSD or CRPS following an injury may be entitled to compensation if they were not at fault in causing the accident. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to receive damages for your pain and suffering, lost wages and ongoing medical care. Contacting an experienced RSD Injury Lawyer is the first step in protecting your rights.