Thermal biofeedback in the treatment of symptoms associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy

A 12-year-old male, unresponsive to therapy for symptoms associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy, was treated by thermal biofeedback techniques. Within the first four treatment sessions, transfer of training from digital warming to warming the affected knee area produced skin temperature elevation around the gastrocnemius and patellar areas. Attenuation of localized vasospasm and cold intolerance resulted, followed by total abolition within ten sessions. After symptom alleviation, a return to premorbid activity levels was reported. Implications for use of thermal biofeedback as a primary noninvasive technique for treatment of symptoms associated with reflex sympathetic dystrophy are discussed.