Reflex sympathetic dystrophy, also called RSD or complex regional pain syndrome, causes chronic intense pain, skin sensitivity, stiffness and disability, according to the National Institutes of Health's National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. People with RSD often gain relief with nerve blocks and analgesic medications, but exercise and physical therapy can also effectively relieve some symptoms of RSD.
Desensitization Exercises
If you have reflex sympathetic dystrophy, your physical therapist may help you with desensitization exercises. Because RSD involves a problem with sensation, gradually stimulating the nerves can help reduce discomfort. In desensitization therapy, the therapist may first touch your skin with silk or another soft fabric and progress to rougher, more textured fabrics. If you are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, desensitization therapy may involve taking contrast baths that help you tolerate hot or cold temperatures better, according to the Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association.
Scrubbing Exercises
Scrubbing exercises also help people with RSD. Holding a scrub brush in your hand, you'll scrub against a table, counter or other hard surface, keeping the pressure consistent and the bristles against the surface. As you progress, you'll spend more time scrubbing and put more pressure against the brush. If RSD affects one or both of your legs, the physical therapist may strap a brush to your foot. Actively moving the joints affected by RSD may cause swelling and pain at first, but within a few days, RSD symptoms will improve, allowing you to use the affected body part more during everyday tasks.
Carrying Exercises
Like scrubbing exercises, carrying exercises help prevent muscles from atrophying and relieve pain of RSD. If you have RSD of the upper body, you'll carry small objects in your hand, gradually progressing to heavier objects. Physical therapists recommend you practice carrying throughout the day whenever you're standing or walking. If RSD affects your lower body, your physical therapist may recommend you practice carrying exercises by carrying a weighted bag, by doing activities that force you to shift your weight or by standing on one foot.
Aquatic Exercises
Exercising in a pool helps people with RSD move more easily, decreases hesitancy to move painful muscles and aids in the development of strength and balance. In the water, your physical therapist may instruct you on exercises to improve your range of motion and strengthen your abdominal muscles.
References
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Fact Sheet
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association: Treating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Guide for Therapy
- Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Association: Aquatic Therapy and CRPS: Should You Fear to Tread ... Water?
