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NOLAN TZOU, M.D.

Diplomate American Board of Anesthesiology
and Pain Management

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (R.S.D.)

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) is also known as complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPS). The condition often occurs from surgery or trauma to a limb, but can also occur from even a mild contusion.

Pain from RSD is a severe persistent pain in an upper or lower limb and may lead to disuse atrophy.

Besides constant pain, patients may experience unusual cold or sweating from the limb as well as changes in color and hair growth.

If you have been diagnosed with RSD or your doctor is considering it as a diagnosis, referral to a pain doctor such as Dr. Tzou is recommended.