I'm curious, from whom did you receive your dx for RSD?

From my experience, I would tell you it is imperative you have doctors who work with RSD. It was really a pain in the *** dealing with my medical group and insurance company (I had to change my coverage) to get to where I needed to be. Being in NYC, there will be doctors there for you.

For attacking RSD, at least for me, after medications (lyrica, tramadol and lidocaine patches), brain and spine MRI's, EMG and nerve conduction tests, treatment moved on with a specifically RSD doc with upper and lower nerve blocks, which were unsuccessful, skin biopsies, and we are about to start ketamine infusion. There are many other treatment options, certainly specific to one's own situation.

Just a note on your post in regards to a spinal tap. I just went through a thorough analysis of my blood and spinal fluid in regards to immune factors with a neuorologist who does IVIg infusions. My experience was very atypical, but I was floored for two weeks with a headache, my thinking and concentration immpaired, and my spine felt like it was being ripped out. Really awful time. Talk to your neurolgist specifically about RSD in reagrds to a tap first.

Good luck, and stay agressive in forcing the issue with your insurance company and your doctors.