Algodystrophy, or reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a not uncommon complication, even frequent in certain medical situations such as wrist fractures (around 20% of cases, whatever the treatment used). It manifests itself as a form of inflammation, sometimes triggered by minor trauma or even minor surgery. At present, it is impossible to predict who is likely to develop such a complication. Symptoms of this condition are characterized by often intense (sometimes disproportionate) pain, joint stiffness, swelling of the hand and fingers, sensations of heat and/or cold, and reduced strength. Sometimes these symptoms are confined to one part of the hand, while other times the shoulder may also be affected. Additional tests are rarely required to confirm the diagnosis. X-rays may show a reduction in bone density in the bones of the hand. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, treatment varies according to pain and impact on movement. Treatment aims to gradually reduce clinical symptoms, but the evolution of the condition remains unpredictable for several months or even one or two years, and long-term sequelae cannot always be avoided, even with appropriate treatment. These sequelae may take the form of persistent pain, some stiffness of the fingers and/or wrist, or even of the shoulder. The mechanism underlying the onset of this condition is still poorly understood, and treatments focus mainly on managing the symptoms without being able to act directly on the cause. The patient’s full cooperation throughout this prolonged treatment remains essential.
