Hand Rehabilitation after Sudeck’s Atrophy

Sudeck’s atrophy, also known as Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, is characterized by a disturbance in the sympathetic nervous system. The latter is the nerve network that regulates many bodily functions. It is in charge of opening and closing blood vessels as well as controlling sweat glands in the skin.

Sudeck’s syndrome in the hand occurs about once every 2,000 accidents of any kind. Signs and symptoms appear several weeks after injury, with typical radiographic changes (spotty atrophy) appearing six to eight weeks later.

Exercise and physiotherapy are critical in reducing the agony of this disease. Rest is preferable to mobility in order to gradually increase the motion of the affected limb and preserve joint movement; otherwise, stiffness may progress.

Rehabilitation and physical therapy are two common primary therapies. This is the single most important CRPS treatment. Maintaining flexibility, strength, and function while keeping the painful limb or body part moving improves blood flow and reduces circulatory symptoms.

The hand, as the most commonly affected limb, necessitates extensive physical care via rehabilitation activities.

Several devices are being developed to meet this requirement. So far, one of the most recommended devices for this issue is the Robotic Rehabilitation Gloves: SIFREHAB-1.1.

The SIFREHAB-1.1 is appropriate for patients with Sudeck’s atrophy-related hand dysfunction. It combines adaptable robotic technology with neurobiological theory. It generates power from flexible pneumatic bionic muscles, which can promote finger flexion and extension, reduce muscle tension, increase blood circulation, relieve edema, and prevent muscle atrophy.

Simultaneously, the SIFREHAB-1.1 can assist users in relearning through an exercise from the three levels of nerves, brain, and muscles, as well as rebuild brain nerves to control hand movement.

The device also includes five key training models for hand function rehabilitation: single finger training, hand airwave massage therapy, passive flexion and extension training, and mirror therapy.

All of these advanced functions are intended to promote blood and lymphatic tissue circulation, accelerate blood tissue return, clear blocked blood vessels, promote blood circulation, and activate vascular cells. The ultimate goal is to alleviate pain in Sudeck’s atrophy patients.

Sudeck’s atrophy is one of the most painful medical conditions and has been dubbed the “suicide disease” due to the lack of a cure and limited effective treatments. This, however, should not stymie efforts to oppose it. Excellent physical rehabilitation with the SIFREHAB-1.1 can keep the hope of recovery alive.

Reference: Sudeck’s atrophy (reflex sympathetic dystrophy, complex regional pain syndrome type 1)