Sponsored by:
Senator JOSEPH M. KYRILLOS, JR.
District 13 (Middlesex and Monmouth)
SYNOPSIS
Designates September 15th of each year as "Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Day" in New Jersey.
CURRENT VERSION OF TEXT
As introduced.
A Joint Resolution designating September 15th of every year as "Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Day" in New Jersey.
Whereas, Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSDS), also known as complex regional pain syndrome, is a debilitating and progressively chronic condition characterized by severe burning pain, pathological changes in bone and skin, excessive sweating, tissue swelling, and extreme sensitivity to touch; and
Whereas, RSDS is thought to be a nerve disorder that generally occurs at the site of a minor or major trauma injury. The syndrome usually develops in an injured limb, such as a broken leg, or following surgery; however, many cases of RSDS involve only a minor injury, such as a sprain. In some cases, no precipitating event can be identified; and
Whereas, While the exact underlying causes of RSDS are unknown, the syndrome is thought to be the result of damaged nerves of the sympathetic nervous system; and
Whereas, The disorder is unique in that it simultaneously affects the nerves, skin, muscles, blood vessels, and bones and, if untreated, can result in permanent deformity and chronic pain; and
Whereas, RSDS is often misdiagnosed because the condition is either unknown or is poorly understood. The prognosis for patients suffering from RSDS is generally much better when the condition is identified and treated as early as possible, ideally within three months of identifying the first symptoms, as recognition and prompt treatment of RSDS provides the greatest opportunity for recovery; and
Whereas, If treatment is delayed, the disorder can quickly spread to the entire limb, and changes in bone and muscle may become irreversible, resulting in limited mobility, atrophy of the muscles, and eventual permanent disability of patients; and
Whereas, It is appropriate that all citizens of this State be better informed about reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome and the impact it has on the lives of those who suffer with the condition; now, therefore,
Be It Resolved by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:
1. September 15th of each year is designated as "Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Day" in the State of New Jersey to promote awareness about this severely painful and debilitating condition.
2. The Governor shall annually issue a proclamation calling upon public officials and the citizens of New Jersey to observe the day with appropriate activities and programs, which promote awareness of reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome.
3. This joint resolution shall take effect immediately.
STATEMENT
This joint resolution designates September 15th of each year as "Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome Day" to promote awareness about this severely painful and debilitating condition and the impact it has on the lives of those who suffer with the condition.
The incidence of RSDS is 1% to 2% after all fractures, 2% to 4% after fractures with peripheral nerve injuries, and up to 35% after a Colles fracture (a fracture of the distal radius bone).