[Sympathetic reflex dystrophy. Effectiveness of physical therapy treatment of Sudeck's syndrome]

To investigate the impairment of patients with reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS) and to establish the effectiveness of two physiotherapeutic regimens in the treatment of this entity, 54 RSDS patients were examined clinically, radiologically and scintigraphically an average of 112 days after the triggering event. The patients were assigned to either of two treatment groups in accordance with the results of preliminary scintigraphic examinations. After physiotherapy comprising exercises and cryotherapy either with or without galvanic stimulation, a significant therapeutic effect on clinical and scintigraphic parameters was found in both treatment groups. Scanning, in combination with clinical diagnostic measures proved a valuable tool in the diagnostic evaluation, selection of treatment and follow-up in patients with RSDS.