1. What is reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome?

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) is a disease of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls certain functions in our bodies, such as the opening and closing of blood vessels and sweat glands.

2. Who can be afflicted with this condition?

RSD can affect anyone, but it is most common in women over the age of 50 years. RSD often follows an injury, but in more than 30% of the cases the cause is unknown.

3. Is RSD curable?

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome is treated with physical therapy and medications and generally goes away with time, although it may take several years to run its course.

4. What are symptoms of RSD?

The main symptom of RSD is severe pain, often including a burning sensation in the affected area. The disorder may eventually result in dystrophy (weakness) of the area. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are very important if the disease is to be managed.

5. How is RSD diagnosed?

The affected area will be examined and a complete examination may be needed. X-rays and bone scans are often obtained to help in the diagnosis. Electrical tests of nerve and muscle function may also be ordered.

6. How is the disease treated?

The most important element of treatment is to restore movement to the affected area. This condition is easiest to treat in its early phases. Physical or occupational therapy with specific exercises has been helpful in maintaining flexibility and strength.

7. How is pain managed during treatment?

Acetaminophen, aspirin, and other anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat the pain. Frequently, TENS units (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) are used. A TENS unit relieves pain by blocking nerve impulses. Another common treatment consists of injecting a numbing agent near the affected nerves or alongside the spinal column.

8. If I decide to file a lawsuit regarding my RSD, how much will my case be worth?

This depends on many factors, such as the amount of damages and what injuries you have suffered as a result of the Defendant's wrongdoing.

9. How long will the case take to settle?

Normally cases such as this take several years to reach conclusion.

10. How are lawyers paid in these types of cases?

Most attorneys will work on a contingent-fee basis for this type of case. This means that the attorney will take a percentage of the amount recovered to pay their fees. It also means that unless you recover, the attorney does not get paid.

11. What are the key legal issues in cases such as these?

• What caused the injury? If it was a car accident, for example, this can give rise to a lawsuit.

• If the RSD was caused by a medical procedure, was the procedure necessary and done properly?

• Was the diagnosis of RSD delayed and if so, did it change the outcome?

• Did unnecessary surgery aggravate the RSD?