The person loses use of the injured limb and becomes crippled. As the limb is not used, it shrivels up and loses muscle tone. Without help the patient feels like a victim. Many times no one can give them answers or find a solution to their pain and loss of function. However, as can be expected of dedicated members of the medical community, this syndrome is being recognized at an early stage and more and more physicians are diagnosing it or bringing it to the attention of those who can.
Diagnosis is the first key to proper treatment.
It is the opinion of many experts that proper medication and a good physical therapy program are the best treatment for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. Some clinics specialize in the treatment of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy. However, every case of CRPS is unique and a good physical therapy treatment program must have the flexibility to accommodate the specific circumstances of each case. The history around the injury is of utmost importance and depending upon the specific circumstances of the injury a physical therapy treatment plan must be developed based on the history of the injury. The key to successful physical therapy treatment of CRPS is providing a program that alters the pain and encourages relaxation which helps the patient regain control.