Reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a condition causing intense, burning type pain usually involving an arm or leg following an injury to bone or soft tissue. It may also follow a surgical procedure. The injury may be very minor. Another name for the condition is complex regional pain syndrome. An individual may show extreme sensitivity to touch or pressure. Examination may show swelling, changes in sensation, color, temperature and sweating. Sometimes treatment involves nerve blocks. Often, despite various forms of treatment, pain continues which may limit one’s ability to use the arm, hand or leg effectively.
Doctors from the state will review all your medical records and determine the extent of your limitations. If an arm or hand is involved, your ability to raise your arm or use your hand may be limited resulting in poor abililty to grasp objects, pick up small objects, type or write. Your doctor will state how well you have responded to treatment. In addition, if a leg or foot is involved a statement as to how well you can walk and if a cane is needed. An important rule the state requires is that your impairment must last 12 months or be expected to last that long: Your impairment may be very disabling at the beginning, but with treatment may improve and therefore lessen your chances of receiving disability: also, because of social security rules information from a chiropractor is not considered as from an acceptable medical source.
The state may require you to attend a physical examination to determine the extent of your impairment. I am a claims examiner who formerly reviewed cases for social security and understand the process involved and what the critical information the state requires.