In simple words: Algoneurodystrophy, or RSD, is a condition causing long-lasting, severe pain, often in an arm or leg, after an injury, stroke, or heart attack. The pain is usually worse than the initial injury.

Algoneurodystrophy is a chronic pain condition that affects the nervous system, often triggered by injury or trauma.It is characterized by severe, constant, burning pain, typically in the limbs, along with swelling, temperature changes, skin discoloration, and changes in hair and nail growth. The pain may be disproportionate to the initial injury.

Example 1: A patient experiences burning pain, swelling, and skin discoloration in their hand after a wrist fracture. The pain is more severe than expected and persists for months, diagnosed as algoneurodystrophy., Following a stroke, a patient develops persistent burning pain and sensitivity to touch in their leg, along with temperature changes and swelling, consistent with algoneurodystrophy., A patient undergoes a knee surgery and subsequently develops chronic pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected leg, diagnosed as algoneurodystrophy despite no apparent nerve damage during the surgery.

Documentation should include detailed patient history (including the initial injury or event), physical examination findings (pain, swelling, temperature and skin changes, range of motion limitations), results of imaging studies (X-rays, thermography, MRI if nerve involvement is suspected), and response to treatment.