[Sudeck syndrome and its "psychosomatic disposition": a comparative clinico-psychologic study of the etiology in accident patients]

Abstract

This study comprises a large psychological investigation of 10 patients with Posttraumatic Sympathetic Dystrophy of hands and compares the results with a control-group. It was found that a "psychosomatic disposition" with three factors completing each other occurs: a neurotic-depressive structure of personality including narcisistic problems, a posttraumatic disorder of adaptation with various emotional traits (as a reaction to the stress of the somatic trauma) and finally a less confidential style of interaction between the medical practitioner and the patient. A supporting psychotherapy is proposed, if necessary combined with a Tranquilizer. The behaviour of the medical practitioner has a prophylactic function.