I have been told by my doctor that is the nerve cell that is holding fluid not tissue like normal edema- that is why diuretics are not perscribed for RSD- how weird is that- just goes along with everything else dreadful about this disease- also that the bloodcell actually leaks fluid into the tissue resulting in edema- I cant say I understand all of this just repeating it. I could not stand to have my legs wrapped with Ace bandages and am surprised that helps as RSD swelling is so different from normal swellilng- Id be careful with any restriction. Good luck, CZ