Purpose: Reflex dystrophy is a poorly understood condition which must not go unrecognized due to the invalidating consequences.

Material: Twenty-four children aged seven to fifteen years were treated for reflex dystrophy since 1998. The foot or ankle was involved in 73% of the cases, generally secondary to ankle sprain. The diagnosis was established on the basis of the clinical presentation and on bone scintigram data obtained in all cases. Mean delay to diagnosis was 17.9 weeks, one case being diagnosed at 2.5 years.

Methods: An intravenous block (xylocaine and buflomedil) using a low-pressure tourniquet and without anaesthesia was performed in 23 patients. The local anaesthesia allowed gentle manipulation of the stiff joint so the child could visualise renewed mobility. The block was associated with gentle physical therapy, balneotherapy, and psychological support.

Results: The intravenous block was immediately and totally effective in 78% of the cases, the child being able to walk with full weight bearing without pain. Recurrence rate was 17%, occurring within the first month after the block in 80% of the cases.

Discussion: Diagnosis of reflex dystrophy is basically clinical, but the scintigram supported the diagnosis and enabled better localisation of the anatomic region involved. We have abandoned first line calcitonin which has demonstrated less satisfactory results than intravenous blocks. Combining a local anaesthetic with a low-pressure tourniquet improves patient comfort without the inconvenience of general anaesthesia.

Conclusion: Care must be taken to no overlook reflex dystrophy in children and adolescents. First intention use of an intravenous block significantly shortens the clinical course allowing the child to resume physical activities.