The diagnosis is largely based on a thorough review of the patient's medical history, including both physical symptoms and psychological or emotional concerns. A physical exam may identify specific locations of pain, allodynia and autonomic changes, but there will be no signs of joint inflammation. A doctor may order labs or imaging to rule out other causes of pain; however, it is important to note that over-medicalization in the form of unnecessary testing may actually worsen AMPS symptoms. Therefore, if the history and physical exam are very consistent with AMPS, no further testing is required for diagnosis.