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Surgery or a new doctor...Again???

I was diagnosed with RSD in my hands in 1996 and it spread to my feet in 1997 after C3-4 laminectomy.  Reading from a 2005 medical report I have "post laminectomy syndrome with significant ridicular component in both upper extremities and RSD with the primary focus in the left upper extremity  and cervival facet arthropathy."  The report also indicates I have severe occipital neuraligia.  I also have abnormalities bi-laterally in the bracheil plexus, carpel and cubital tunnel as well as remainng buldging and herniated discs.

I recently moved from the Phila area where I was being treated to NW PA.  I've been to three different doctors here and nobody seems to understand my issues.  I've been told OMG the RSD is so bad we can't help you, and sweetie who told you you have RSD, I'm just not seeing it.  I've showed him medical reports from, neurologists, the neuro surgeon that did my neck surgery, and my former pain mgmt doctor.  I showed him quantiative sensory testing on both my hands and feet indicating RSD.  I gave him reports from themographic imaging that showed RSD in the cervical, thoracic and lumbar areas, not to mention my hands and feet, and he still does not believe I have RSD.

This new doc had me have a neck x-ray and he shows a bone spur and a pinched nerve and now he wants me to consider surger for that.  I am confused to say the least.  I've been getting nerve blocks, cervical facet joint blocks and stelliate ganglion blocks for years now and that is the only thing that keeps me moving.  I think those are for the occipital nerve, but at this point I'm just not sure.

Any advice, suggestions or ideas you may have would be welcome.

Thanks!
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Avatar universal
Sorry,....previous comment on the podiatrist, dr. Fillatraut....is for those who have it in the foot, ankle and lower leg only.  Also pain managment, Dr. Chad Achilles in the decatur area of atlanta is very good too.  I am a Physician Assistant, who has worked in orthopedics and emergency medicine, prior to having an injury to my foot, surgery and resulting RSD/Complex Regional Pain syndrome.  Would be glad to answer any question that I might....feel free to contact me.
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Avatar universal
Podiatrist, Dr. Fillatraut is very good and thorough.  I highly recommend her.  She is off Pharr Rd off Piedmont.
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Avatar universal
I too have RSD and live in the Springfield, MO Area.  I have been told that there is nothing more they can do for me.  The doctor isn't concern about my foot turning purple.  I have sat in his office and watch my foot turn.  I am looking for a doctor in the area who knows about RSD.  It's had to find a doctor in MO who really cares.  I have bad days and then I have good ones.  The doctor told me back in Aug that I have this.  I am in therapy 3 times a week.  If you find one in Springfield, please let me know.  Thanks!
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