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Currently, there is no cure for reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) because the underlying disease process is still not well understood. Treatment is, therefore, aimed at controlling and reducing the severity of the symptoms. In general, early diagnosis and treatment is associated with a more favorable prognosis (outlook). Therapy for RSD becomes more complex and invasive as the patient's response to conventional treatments diminishes and the various aspects of the condition, especially pain, intensify. The longer the symptoms of RSD persist, the more probable it becomes that psychosocial factors will play a significant role in the patient's condition which will then require special attention.

The goals of treatment for reflex sympathetic dystrophy include:

• Control and minimize pain
• Functional rehabilitation of the affected limb
• Treat other existing symptoms
• Prevent progression and worsening of RSD symptoms
• Improve the patient's quality of life and psychosocial functioning

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy has been called by some researchers a biopsychosocial disorder meaning that it is a condition affecting biological/physiological, psychological, behavioral, and social aspects of the patient's life and each of these aspects of RSD must be addressed. Thus, the treatment program for reflex sympathetic dystrophy requires a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals to manage all the clinical dimensions and may include:

• Primary care physician
• Neurologist
• Pain management specialist
• Surgeon
• Psychologist
• Occupational therapist
• Physical therapist
• Recreational therapist
• Vocational therapist

While many people suffering from RSD will benefit from intensive multidisciplinary treatment for RSD, there are others for whom the pain remains intractable and unresponsive. It is very important that these patients be taught skills in order to cope with their pain and receive counseling to try and help them improve their quality of life despite their ongoing symptoms.