Complex regional pain syndrome, also known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, is a serious medical condition that can have profound consequences for those affected by it. According to some estimates, it may be among the most painful long-term medical conditions from which an individual can suffer, and in many cases, the effects of the condition can become widespread, affecting the entire body. As a result, complex regional pain syndrome can be totally disabling.
Because treatment for complex regional pain syndrome loses effectiveness the longer the condition is allowed to progress, it is important to seek a diagnosis of this condition at the earliest possible date. Early intervention can help to dramatically improve a patient’s long-term health outcomes and prevent permanent disability.
Treatment options for complex regional pain syndrome typically involve some or all of the following:
Physical Rehabilitation: one of the most standard treatment courses for individuals suffering from complex regional pain syndrome involves the deployment of various forms of physical rehabilitation to arrest the progression of the condition and reduce pain. Additionally, it can help to restore functionality to the affected limbs.
Medication: a wide range of medications have shown moderate success in helping to treat complex regional pain syndrome, particularly in the early stages of the condition. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen, corticosteroids to treat swelling, botulinum toxin injections, and opioids may all be prescribed to help combat the symptoms of complex regional pain syndrome.
Sympathetic Nerve Block: this treatment option is reported to provide temporary relief from the pain associated with complex regional pain syndrome. Sympathetic nerve block involves injecting anesthetics next to the spinal cord in order to block pain signals temporarily, while exercising the affected extremity in order to help restore functionality.
Spinal Cord Stimulation: this procedure involves the implantation of stimulating electrodes near the spinal cord in order to provide needed stimulative bursts to areas experiencing severe pain. The electrodes can be remotely activated to provide pain relief.
Therapy: in many cases, the extreme pain associated with complex regional pain syndrome causes mental health issues to develop which, in turn, can exacerbate symptoms of the condition. Therefore, it is often necessary to seek psychological counseling and treatment to help prevent worsening symptoms.
In spite of the considerable success that many of these treatment options can have for complex regional pain syndrome sufferers, there is currently no full cure for the condition. In many cases, complex regional pain syndrome is caused by physical trauma, which then progresses to this serious medical condition. While this condition can be managed to a certain extent, treatment is often prohibitively expensive without financial assistance. At Hach & Rose, LLP, we are committed to helping those who have developed this debilitating condition as the result of another person’s negligent or reckless actions to pursue the compensation they deserve for their pain and suffering. Contact the New York personal injury attorneys of Hach & Rose, LLP today by calling (212) 779-0057 to learn more about what our legal team can do to help you in this difficult situation.