Does anyone know of anything that would cause RSD type symptoms?

Question

I have been diagnosed with RSD by several doctors. However one doctor that is an RSD expert says he does not think I have RSD. He says he needs to do a couple more tests that I don't have the money for.

Answer 1

What tests does this doctor want to do? It's important to know, because some tests are legitimate and some simply aren't. In the meantime, here's my opinion on this subject:

First of all, the main thing that causes RSD symptoms is generally RSD. Of course, there are combinations of other conditions that might mimic RSD symptoms. I've had doctors tell me I didn't have RSD at one time or another. The real experts, the doctors who treat RSD regularly, knew what to look for and what tests to do. Remember, just because somebody claims to be an expert, it doesn't mean he or she actually is.

It is important to rule out other causes for your pain, of course. If it would turn out that this doctor is right, you don't want to have wasted time treating something you don't have! Plus, if you DO have RSD, there could be a contributing factor that exacerbates the problem (a structural issue in the RSD area, for instance, can cause further problems and worsening of symptoms).

My best advice is that you should find a doctor who regularly treats RSD. Contact Jim Broatch at the RSDSA. He may be able to help you locate a good doctor in your area. It's always worth getting another opinion. I saw tons of doctors before I was diagnosed, and I know others who have had the same experiences as me (part of my problem was that I was a kid, and there are doctors out there that don't believe that RSD exists in the pediatric population---complete hogwash).

I also highly recommend that you arm yourself with information. You can never know too much when it comes to your health.

I hope this helps you, and I certainly hope you get the help you need!

Answer 2

If you have RSD it should be quite evident. It is due to damage to a nerve, usually at the peripheral level (i.e. leg). The main symptoms are that all symptoms are on one side of the body. These symptoms include oversensitivity to things that did not bother you before. You may notice abnormal hair growth/loss on one side of your body, compared to the other. You may that the affected area is warmer or colder than the opposing side. Pain is always associated with RSD.

RSD treatments include oral medications, regional injections, desensitization and active rehabilitation.

The chronic pain clinic that I work at has a special rehabilitation program for RSD. This program uses a team of doctors, physiotherapists, nurses and exercise therapists to effectively treat RSD. I have included a link to our clinic. Feel free to email me if you have more questions.

Answer 3

I can't think of anything else that would cause that sort of characteristic pain.
It follows a mild injury of lets say your elbow. After that you have uncharacteristically severe pain in your forearm and possibly your wrist, hand or palm. The pain is virtually untreatable with conventional pain medicine.