Quality of Life Issues in Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle in Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

It is important for the patient with reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) to maintain a healthy lifestyle despite the difficulties they are experiencing, including getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating healthy foods. Patients must be particularly vigilant about the potential long-term health consequences of a changing life style caused by chronic pain. Since patients with RSD may be forced to lead a more sedentary lifestyle, they may be more at risk for developing other medical problems including:

• Weight gain
• Cardiovascular disease
• Osteoporosis
• Diabetes

Weight control is crucial for overall good health in addition to eating balanced meals and taking vitamins if needed. It is also beneficial to find facilities that offer modified exercise programs for physically handicapped individuals. For individuals who have a tendency to shield the affected limb from any stimulation or from being touched or manipulated, it is very important to maintain hygiene of the affected limb even though it it may be perceived as being painful.