[Clinical picture in Sudeck's dystrophy]

Concerning course, symptomatology and morphology the clinical picture of Sudeck's dystrophy is commented unanimously. Different views of pathogenesis, terminology, and therapy are still existing. Among multifarious contributing factors, vasomotor reflexes as well as endogenous factors are of particular significance. Methods of treatment and their benefits within different stages are pointed out and discussed. Besides physical treatment, application of calcitonin or neurostimulation are viewed to be effective. In cases of progressing dystrophy blocking of the sympathetic ganglia or (periarterial) sympathectomy are still measures of benefit. Prophylaxis is of great importance, though Sudeck's dystrophy is not always avoidable.