Can You Be Diagnois With Rsd Without Having A Bone Scan - Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Message Board

lisa17 · 08-19-2006, 09:13 PM

HI

I WAS DIGANOISED WITH RSD, I NEVER HAD A BONE SCAN. IS IT POSSIBLE FOR A ORTHOPEDIC DR TO JUST LOOK AT MY FOOT AND TELL ME I HAVE RSD?

THANKS
LISA

Gaollan · 08-19-2006, 11:22 PM

Yep, it very possible. Most dx's of RSD are made from the clinical symptoms, or in other words, what the doctor sees.

A bone scan MAY back up the diagnosis but most times you have RSD and the bone scan comes back normal. I've had 2 bone scans and both of them were negative for RSD but I have it full body.

There really isn't any one test that can dx RSD.

Karen

deebeepuppies · 08-20-2006, 06:12 AM

Hi Lisa...Like you I am newly diagnosed so I have read everything I can get my hands on. From what I have learned, only about 50% of us with rsd have a positive bone scan. A prudent doctor will not rely on a bone scan to diagnose rsd. However, my insurance company would not pay for my nerve blocks unless I had a positive bone scan. Finally, something went my way, because my bone scan was positive so they will pay for the blocks.So, please don't worry about not having a scan done. Sounds like you have a knowledgeable doctor who realizes the limits of bone scans in diagnosing rsd.Take care...Jeannie

annielou · 08-21-2006, 01:36 AM

Lisa17- My bone scan was negative too. However, the doctor diag. me with RSD in my right foot.

laaema0507 · 08-21-2006, 10:02 PM

Hi Lisa,

I was diagnosed with RSD in my right arm in May 06 and I also had a negative bone scan.

Lori