Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) is a complex disorder characterized by multiple symptoms that affect many systems of the human body. The primary symptom of RSDS is burning pain in the distal extremities of the body (feet, hands) but the syndrome has been localized to other regions such as the chest cavity and the organs within. RSDS has been known to be present in more than one area of the body and can spread from the region where it originated. Loss of feeling in these areas usually accompanies RSDS and, if not treated properly, loss of the ability to move these areas can eventually set in, especially in appendages. RSDS symptoms usually appear after a traumatic episode such as surgery, although anything can set it off.

The disorder was originally described in the 1870s by the RSDS Association, but it is easily one of the lesser known and poorly understood disorders of the 21st century. Many forms of treatment are effective, but carefully prescribed as to not trigger more RSDS symptoms. Therapy such as electronic stimulation, corticosteroid or anesthetic injections, and oxygenated hyperbaric chamber treatments are some of the more common types, but physical therapy is easily the number one theraputic method. There is hope for complete recovery from this disorder, but it is crucial that an RSDS patient take his/her physical therapy seriously.