Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), now commonly classified as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), is a chronic and often debilitating pain condition that can significantly impact daily life. At 21st Century Pain Management, we provide advanced, evidence-based RSD and CRPS treatment in Pearland and Sugar Land, Texas, helping patients regain function, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.
RSD and CRPS are characterized by severe, persistent burning pain that most often affects one extremity, such as the arm, leg, hand, or foot. Unlike typical pain conditions, RSD involves dysfunction across multiple systems — including nerves, blood vessels, skin, muscles, and bones — making early diagnosis and specialized pain management critical.
Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy is an older term used to describe what is now known as Type I Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). This condition typically develops after a tissue injury such as a fracture, surgery, sprain, or minor trauma, even when no direct nerve injury is identified.
Patients with RSD may experience intense burning pain, swelling, temperature changes, abnormal sweating, skin discoloration, stiffness, and extreme sensitivity to touch — a condition known as allodynia. These symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated.
Types of Complex Regional Pain SyndromeType I CRPS, historically referred to as RSD, occurs after tissue injury without confirmed nerve damage. It is the most common form and can develop weeks or months following the initial injury.
Type II CRPS is associated with a known nerve injury, often caused by high-velocity trauma such as gunshot wounds or severe accidents. This form was first documented more than a century ago while studying chronic pain in Civil War veterans.
Both types share similar symptoms and require comprehensive pain management by a specialist experienced in treating complex pain disorders.
Symptoms of RSD / CRPSAt 21st Century Pain Management, our board-certified pain specialists take a multidisciplinary and individualized approach to treating RSD and CRPS. Because no two patients experience this condition the same way, treatment plans are customized based on symptom severity, functional limitations, and overall health.
Our comprehensive RSD and CRPS treatment options may include:
Our goal is not only pain reduction but also restoring mobility, improving circulation, and preventing disease progression.
Why Choose 21st Century Pain Management?Patients seeking RSD and CRPS treatment in Pearland and Sugar Land, TX trust 21st Century Pain Management for our expertise, compassionate care, and commitment to long-term results.
Learn more about our approach to interventional pain management and our treatment for chronic pain syndromes.
We proudly provide specialized pain management services to patients throughout Pearland, Sugar Land, and surrounding areas. Our clinic is dedicated to helping local patients find relief from chronic pain conditions like RSD and CRPS without relying solely on long-term medications.
For more information on CRPS, visit the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
RSD is a chronic pain condition now classified as Type I CRPS, involving abnormal pain signaling after injury.
RSD refers to Type I CRPS. Type II CRPS involves confirmed nerve injury.
It often develops after trauma, surgery, fractures, or tissue injury.
There is no cure, but early and comprehensive treatment can significantly improve symptoms.
A board-certified pain management specialist is best suited to treat RSD and CRPS.
Without treatment, symptoms may progress. Early intervention improves outcomes.
Treatment may include medications, nerve blocks, interventional procedures, and therapy.
Yes, CRPS involves abnormal nervous system responses affecting multiple tissues.
Yes, we provide CRPS treatment to patients in Sugar Land and nearby communities.
If pain persists or worsens after injury, early evaluation by a pain specialist is recommended.