How Can RSD Be Diagnosed?

Posted on Wed, 25 Jan 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 25 Jan 2017 Answered on

Mon, 27 Feb 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : How I know if I have RSD for sure? Can it come from a pinched nerve in a sholder that is previously
partially-paralyzed from a ruptured AVM?

Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Certainty depends on symptoms.

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

The diagnosis of RSD is made based on the clinical symptoms presented by the patient. There is not any diagnostic test which makes the diagnosis for certain. There are a set of diagnostic criteria which have been approved by the International Association for the Study of Pain, they are criteria based on symptoms. Tests may be done to support the diagnosis and exclude other possibilities, but no single test makes the diagnosis.

As for the pinched nerve issue, yes, it is possible to develop RSD from a pinched nerve. So if the affected area corresponds to the pinched nerve it is a possible cause.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar