How is RSD/CRPS Diagnosed?

Posted on April 11, 2010 by Stuart Kritzer

I recently had a conversation with a perspective client who had been injured in an automobile accident and as a result, was experiencing many of the symptoms of RSD / CRPS. Unfortunately, she was being passed around between different specialists who had yet been able to effectively diagnose her condition. She asked me if there was a test or series of tests that could be performed to diagnose or dispel the existence of CRPS / RSD.  Unfortunately, there is no specific test that can conclusively diagnose CRPS. The US National Library of Medicine posted the following guidelines for testing for CRPS/RSD.  

·         Medical Historywww.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/007184.htm

·         Physical Examination

·         Thermography

·         Bone Scans

·         Nerve Conduction Studies

·         Xrays

Additionally, the International Research Foundation for RSD / CRPS has posted the "Clinical Practice Guidelines - Third Edition".  

One thing is for certain: Despite the growing awareness of RSD/CRPS, much more research is necessary in the medical and research community.

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What is a CRPS-educated physician?

Posted on February 16, 2010 by Stuart Kritzer

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)/Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD) can be difficult to diagnose, as it affects the skin, muscles, joints and bones. There is no clear-cut precipitating event that can be linked to CRPS/RSD. Usually developing in large scale injuries - an injured limb (broken arm / leg) - the the condition can also occur following surgery. Additionally, CRPS/RSD can occur in minor injuries like a sprain or even a pinprick! 

Those who suffer from CRPS/RSP report seeing an average of 5 physicians before being accurately diagnosed. It is critical to find a CRPS/RSP-aware physician.  What is a “CRPS/RSD physician”? The website of the American RSD Hope Organization posted a great definition: 

… A CRPS-educated physician is someone who is up-to-date with the latest information on Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, as well as someone who has treated a number of CRPS patients, successfully.

Currently there is no a formal organization for medical professionals focusing on CRPS/RSD. Look for doctors who are experts in pain management and ask their offices if they regularly treat this condition. Contact online CRPS/RSD support groups. There is information available from others with this condition who are more than willing to share it.

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