Visioniosiv: when I first got RSD 20 years ago, before my diagnosis, I was told to ice. Workers comp paid for the gel ice packs. My surgeon insisted that I use them, with ten minute breaks. They even gave me 2 oacks, one to freeze while I was using the other, and then switch. Even after one doctor diagnosed RSD, the surgeon insisted that I keep icing. The ice cooled it off, numbing me. Within ten minutes of having the pack off, I was on fire again. Now, the exact places that burn the most are EXACTLY where the pack used to sit. It was a long pack, that bulged out in the center. I later read that icing in not recommended for RSD, that it makes it worse, causing permanent damage to the myelin sheath.

Want to hear something crazy? 6 years ago a nurse practitioner at Cleveland Clinic pain management actually told me to ice. I was like Wtf!?!?

I don't mean to sound negative, but especially with the problems I've been having finding a new doctor...I can say that most docs are I'll informed, and have their own pockets in mind, not us. This may just be my experience. Research everything they tell you to the best of your ability, don't just believe what the doctors say. Always get a second opinion, and please don't ice.