RSD/CRPS

This information serves as an overview for RSD (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)/CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) as it relates to personal injury law. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice.

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD or RSDS) also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS); is a chronic pain syndrome that is often characterized by a severe burning pain, extreme sensitivity to touch, swelling, excessive sweating and tissue discoloration.

CRPS is characterized by a discreet set of diagnostic criteria, from the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP):

CRPS-1 (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)

1. 1. The presence of an initiating noxious event, or a cause of immobilization.
2. 2. Continuing pain, allodynia, or hyperalgesia with which the pain is disproportionate to any inciting event.
3. 3. Evidence at some time of edema, changes in skin blood flow, or abnormal sudomotor activity in the region of the pain.
4. 4. This diagnosis is excluded by the existence of conditions that would otherwise account for the degree of pain and dysfunction.

Note: Criteria 2-4 must be satisfied.

CRPS-2 (Causalgia)

1. 1. The presence of continuing pain, allodynia, or hyperalgesia after a nerve injury, not necessarily limited to the distribution of the injured nerve.
2. 2. Evidence at some time of edema, changes in skin blood flow, or abnormal sudomotor activity in the region of the pain.
3. 3. This diagnosis is excluded by the existence of conditions that would otherwise account for the degree of pain and dysfunction.

Note: All three criteria must be satisfied.

Causes of CRPS

CRPS and RSD are often times related to an injury sustained by an accident or injury that results in nerve damage. This injury generally occurs in an extremity/limb.

Often times CRPS patients cannot recall the specific accident that spawned the onset of this horrifically painful condition.

If the onset of this condition is almost always the result of an injury sustained by an accident or negligence of another; the CRPS patient may be entitled to compensatory damages if a personal injury claim is made within the time limit permitted by law.

RSD Lawyers

RSD Lawyers have an understanding of the types of pain associated with RSD/CRPS. "RSD lawyers" are usually personal injury lawyers who represent RSD patients who have suffered an injury due to the negligence of another. If a civil suit is filed; the personal injury lawyer would assist the patient with seeking monetary compensation that may be due to them based on the laws and evidence that supports this type of personal injury claim.

The lawyers at The McLarty Firm may be able to assist or refer RSD/CRPS patients whose injuries have resulted due to negligence. Please contact our office to discuss your situation and receive additional information about RSD lawyers who may be able to assist you.

Related:

• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, RSD
• Verdicts and Settlements
• Mary Alice McLarty, Curriculum Vitae
• Areas of Law Practice
• Accidents
• Work Related Accidents

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