The Injury Hub

Reflex Symphatetic Dystrophy (RSD): Info, Symptoms & Treatment.

Our Chartered Physiotherapists across Ireland are experts in the causes, symptoms and treatment of RSD.

The Injury Hub: Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)

What is Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD)?

Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy syndrome (RSD) is a complex multi-symptom pain syndrome affecting a limb or limbs that can affect any one of any age. It usually occurs following tissue damage to the limb, but it can also be triggered by visceral diseases, central nervous system lesions or from unknown causes.

Woman in pain with her hand on her hip

How We Can Help.

Symptoms, Treatment & How We Can Help Your Recovery.

Learn about common RSD injury symptoms, effective treatments, and how our expert team supports your recovery journey every step of the way.

RSD can strike at any age, but is more common between the ages of 40 and 60. It affects both men and women, but is most frequently seen in women. Although it is more common in the older age groups, the number of RSD cases among adolescents and young adults is increasing.

It often affects the hand or foot, but may also involve the knee, hip, shoulder, or other sites. The main symptom of RSD is severe pain, often burning in nature.

The disorder may eventually result in dystrophy (weakness or wasting) of the area. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are very important if RSD is to be successfully managed.

There is no single test for diagnosing RSD. Diagnosis is a clinical one and is made through observation of the patient’s signs and symptoms. When diagnosed and treated within the first 3 to 6 months, there is the highest possibility of cure and treatment of RSD is most effective.

The most important element of treating RSD syndrome is restoring normal movement to the affected part. This condition is easiest to treat in its early phases. Much of the treatment is based on a courageous effort of the patient to get the hand or foot moving again, even if it is uncomfortable. A formal Physiotherapy exercise and movement programme and other treatments may help maintain flexibility and strength.

A TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator) unit (see Electrotherapy) or biofeedback may be tried. A TENS unit is a small, battery-operated device which relieves pain by blocking nerve impulses. Biofeedback is a technique which can help control pain, blood flow, and skin temperature.

Our physiotherapists are highly trained and qualified to provide expert care to our patients. They are fully insured and are chartered by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP).

We have team of Clinical leads who visits our physios and clinics to ensure a level of customer service and quality care that exceeds our competition is given to patients every time.

Our patient’s health journeys

CMM Coate
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Very good attention from Igor. He was professional and friendly and took the time to answer questions. I would certainly revisit Thank you.
Alice O
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The best deep tissue massage by Marcelo! Would definitely go again.
Linda C
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A very plesant and efficient physiotherapy service.
Kevin M
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Had a very positive experience. Had severe back pain and Dylan was able to see me at short notice. He was very thorough and clear in assessing and explaining my condition and structuring a recovery exercise program that worked very succesfully. I am now fully recovered and looking forward to being as active as I was before my injury.
Sonia F
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Really happy with the two appointments I had with Dylan Connelly to treat my calf strain. His approach was both professional and personable and he ensured that I was completely comfortable during all phases of the appointments. He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Amy B
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I met with Lisa on three occasions in relation to my hamstring and she was absolutely amazing! So easy to chat to and super informative. You need to book at least a week or two in advance to get a spot with her and it's no surprise. She's absolutely fantastic! He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Lisa O
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I went to Olga for 4 or 5 weeks before the marathon this year for hip pain. I was contemplating not running as my long run training had become so painful on the hip. Olga treated with dry needling and massage and over 2 sessions, I saw a big difference. I continued a weekly session to keep me loose and followed her exercise plan. I completed the marathon with no hip issues and felt like my recovery after was a lot faster than previous years.
Margaret C
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Myself and my mother attended Craig for 3 sessions - he is expert at what he does, so understanding, gentle and kind. Great personality and a really skilled physio. Would recommend him absolutly without reservation.He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Patrick M
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I had a painful trapped nerve in my neck which caused pain together with pins and needles running into my arm and hand. I attended Mohammed twice over a period of two weeks. It completely resolved after second appointment. Mohammed is an expert professional at what he does. I would highly recommend his services. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Lauren T
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I can only recommend Dr. Muhammed Sohail. I’ve been to many physio consultants and he’s been the very best so far: dry needling has improved my IT band issues so much over two sessions including my knee pain. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
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Please refer to our individual clinic location pages for pricing information.

Monday – Friday: 8am to 8pm

Saturday: 9am to 5pm

Sunday: Closed

*Please note, opening times can vary between clinics

This service is available in any of our nationwide clinics.

We work with all major insurers – Vhi, Laya and Irish Life. We recommend you check your own policy for its terms and conditions to see what cover you have.

Our Patient Services team is available to help you Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 8:00am to 4:00pm.

Call Us: 01 611 1740

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