RSD is an acronym for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, a progressive neurological disorder characterized by widespread pain, swelling and a burning sensation in the skin, muscles and connective tissue. RSD typically occurs after a broken bone or other trauma, even something as minor as a sprain. It may also involve permanent nerve damage. Also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, RSD is typically treated with pain and anti-inflammatory medications. However, if you suffer from RSD, you may find additional relief with complementary movement therapies, such as Pilates.
Pilates Defined
Pilates is described by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine as a movement therapy that focuses on building strength and stability in core muscles involved in maintaining posture and facilitating movement. Specifically, Pilates combines precision movement with controlled breathing to enhance body awareness.
Conventional RSD Treatments
According to Steven P. Stanos, medical director of the Center for Pain Management at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, RSD is typically treated with a variety of drugs ranging from nerve blockers to antidepressants and analgesics for chronic pain. However, in the U.S., the Federal Drug Administration has not approved any medication specifically for RSD.
Interdisciplinary Therapies
Stanos recommends an integrative approach to treatment to RSD that includes a number of nonpharmacological treatments, such as relaxation therapy, physical therapy, mirror therapy and graded motor imagery. In addition, he suggests various movement therapies to help in the management of chronic pain associated with RSD, including aquatic therapy, tai chi, yoga and Pilates. Stanos believes this interdisciplinary plan is best implemented when clinicians and therapists collaborate in the same environment.
In an article published in the January/February 2009 issue of "AARP" magazine, author Loolwa Khazzoom quotes Stanos as referring to this interdisciplinary model as a "bio-psycho-social approach."
Effectiveness
According to a systematic review published in the Oct. 22, 2010 issue of the "Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy," E.C. Lim and colleagues reported that pain and disability scores from seven randomized controlled trials involving people with chronic, nonspecific back pain showed that Pilates exercises provided significant pain relief. However, the study authors also noted that the evaluated scores did not demonstrate superiority of Pilates over other movement-based exercises for pain. This does not mean to say that Pilates is ineffective; it simply means this form of movement therapy isn't necessarily better than others in terms of addressing chronic pain.
Specific Potential Benefits
In the December 2009 issue of "Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation," Dr. Lale Altan and fellow researchers at the University of Uludag in Turkey concluded that Pilates is an effective and safe form of exercise therapy that enhances quality of life and functional rehabilitation. Although this study was conducted using patients with fibromyalgia syndrome and not RSD specifically, both disorders involve chronic, widespread and sometimes nonspecific pain.
Considerations
Consult your physician or physical therapist before participating in Pilates to be sure you are a good candidate for this therapy. If you get the go-ahead, but later find that your symptoms have worsened, discontinue Pilates and see your health care provider.
References
- NCCAM: Terms Related to Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- RSD.org: Pharmacologic Therapies and Functional Restoration Techniques for CRPS
- RSD.org: Drug-Free Remedies for Chronic Pain
- PubMed: Effects of Pilates-Based Exercises on Pain and Disability in Persistent Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis
- PubMed: Effect of Pilates Training on People with Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Pilot Study
