The pain doesn't remain within the area of a specific peripheral nerve or tissue and will continue to advance proximally without treatment. Tissue Changes . Early in the course the affected area is warm, erythematous and dry. Later the skin becomes cool, cyanotic and moist. Peripheral swelling progresses to tight, shiny swelling.
Muscle spasm atrophy, and weakness occurs, leading to flexor tendon contractures.
Clinical features . The pathophysiology of RSD is poorly understood and there is no confirmatory test available. The classic features are basically tissue changes and altered activity of blood vessels and sweat glands, and they co-exist with intense pain. Diagnosis for RSD is based on the history and the clinical findings. Treatment for RSD may include sympathetic blockades, medication physical therapy and psychotherapy.