RSD Treatment with the Use of Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, now known as complex regional pain syndrome, is a progressive chronic pain condition. RSD is characterized by pain that is constant and very severe accompanied by swelling, extreme sensitivity and skin changes. The pain condition typically affects one limb at a time but has the ability to spread to additional areas. Texas Ketamine Specialists understands that reflex sympathetic dystrophy can become a debilitating condition if left untreated. This is why Dr. Andrea Kim and Dr. Clark Morgan offer ketamine infusions as a safe, effective and fast-acting RSD treatment.
An Overview of Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome
RSD most commonly develops following an injury, surgery, stroke or heart attack. Medical professionals have not reached a definite conclusion on what causes the condition, but many believe the pain associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome is linked to damage or a malfunction in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The central nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system involves nerve signaling from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.
The symptoms associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome vary in severity and length from one individual to the next. The most common symptom is chronic, extreme pain that is out of proportion with an injury. For example, if an injury involves the foot, the entire associated leg may experience debilitating symptoms. Other common symptoms of RSD include swelling and stiffness, skin changes and changes in hair and nail growth.
There is not a cure for reflex sympathetic dystrophy at this time. The overall goal of RSD treatment is to manage the level of pain. Treatment usually includes a combination of pain medications, steroid injections, sympathetic nerve blocks, physical therapy and psychotherapy.
How Does Ketamine Therapy Work as an RSD Treatment?
Ketamine is an anesthetic medication commonly used during surgery in children, adults and even pets. In more recent years, ketamine has been found to provide significant symptom relief for pain associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.
Texas Ketamine Specialists offers ketamine therapy as an RSD treatment much like treatment for severe depression. Patients will receive a 40 minute ketamine infusion followed by a short recovery period. Following the infusion, the majority of patients report a dramatic reduction in symptoms. It is reported that 90% of patients respond favorably to the treatment, with 70% of patients displaying symptom relief in just one infusion.
For additional resources on reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, or to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy as an RSD treatment, please contact the Dallas, Plano and Richardson, Texas area office of Texas Ketamine Specialists.
