Hi Kate,

So sorry to read that your RSD has spread!! I really hope that things start getting better for you real soon and please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

I understand some of what you are going through and know first hand how scary it is to deal with a spreading of the RSD. My RSD started in my left leg after an ankle injury when I was 12 years old and has since spread to both arms. I was terrified when the RSD first started spreading and got very depressed due to it.

I KNOW that it is really hard but please keep moving your arm as much as possible as that is probably one of the things that will help in the long run!! As Lorreta said, our limbs can lock up permantley if you don't move. I have Dystonia in my left leg (the one with RSD also) and I cant move my foot at all because of it and it's a nightmare and I am now having to seek other treatment options as a last resort. I moved my leg straight away from the injury but after a day or so, it could way too painful and my leg started to lock up.

Are you in Physical Therapy?? They can really help and give you some good exercises to try and increase mobility. If you are in PT, please make sure that they know about RSD and how to treat it though - if they dont, it could make things worse!

As the others have said, it isn't the wedding ring that really matters - it is the fact that you and your husband love eachother. I know it's hard not being able to wear jewellery and I cant imagine how it feels not to be able to wear a wedding ring but there are other ways you can wear it (like on a chain on your neck, on the other hand if that isn't affected etc).

Take care of yourself and again, i'm sorry to hear that your RSD has spread!! If you ever need/want anyone to talk to, please know that I am here for you and so is everyone else!!

Alison.