Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a chronic pain condition also referred to as complex regional pain syndrome. While currently no known cure exists for RSD, a number of treatments can help with pain management. Acupressure, an alternative healing method based on treating specific points on your body known as acupoints, may help reduce pain, although not much clinical evidence exists to support its use.
About Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of bodywork therapy used in traditional Chinese medicine. It often is thought of as acupuncture without the needles, as they both rely on the same underlying concepts. Acupressurists apply pressure with their hands, feet and elbows to acupoints along the energy meridians of your body. Practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine believe that your life force energy, also known as qi, flows through these meridians. When the flow of energy is blocked, dysfunction and illness can occur. Treating acupoints is thought to clear energy blockages and promote the natural flow of energy, alleviating many physical and mental complaints. Among its many purported benefits, acupressure may help stimulate the release of endorphins, your body's natural painkilling chemicals.
RSD and Pain
RSD is a nerve disorder characterized by burning, chronic pain that gradually worsens over time. Additional symptoms can include excessive sweating, tissue swelling and sensitivity to touch. The condition is believed to stem from a complex interaction between your immune system and your autonomic and sympathetic nervous systems. Although the exact cause is not yet known, RSD is connected to an injury or illness, including stroke, cancer, neck problems and heart attack, that affects your nerves. Two types of RSD exist. Type 1 can develop after an illness or injury that did not directly impact the nerves in the affected area, while type 2 is the result of a specific nerve injury. Certain treatments, including medication, biofeedback, physical therapy or specific surgical procedures, may help your condition. Alternative healing practices such as acupressure may also help with pain management.
Acupressure and RSD
Acupressure may help symptoms of RSD by helping to control pain symptoms and encouraging the release of endorphins. While no clinical studies have evaluated the specific effects of acupressure on RSD, several studies have found that it can help with pain management. A clinical study published in the July 2004 issue of the journal, "Preventative Medicine," reports that acupressure has been reported to be effective in "managing various types of pain" and also has specific benefits for reducing lower back pain. In addition to pain management, Dr. Ansgar T. Roemer reports that acupressure may also help correct certain nervous system disorders.
Considerations
Acupressure should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Consult your doctor before using acupressure or any alternative treatment modalities. Side effects from an acupressure treatment are extremely rare. However, you should not use acupressure if you have broken skin, an open wound or inflamed tissues, or if you are experiencing extreme fatigue.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy)
- Preventative Medicine: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial for Low Back Pain Treated by Acupressure and Physical Therapy
- Medical Acupuncture in Pregnancy; Ansgar T. Roemer, MD
- The Healing Power of Acupressure and Acupuncture; Matt Bauer
