Before I was diagnosed with RSD, my PT's used to put ice on my leg and it aggrivated things a LOT! I remember dreading going to PT as I knew they were going to ice my leg and I would be in tears for a few hours afterwards. The ice made my leg go blue and purple also and the spasms got a lot worse after icing.

It was only when I was diagnosed with RSD that my Pain Management Doctor told us you should never ice an RSD limb and that the ice probably made things worse and contributed to the problems I now have as it can cause nerve damage.

I have read a few articles on the internet stating that icing an RSD limb is probably one of the worst things you can do as it will probably make things worse. I really wish we knew that at the time as I would have never agreed to the icing but my PT's told me it would help with the swelling - boy were they wrong!

I would definitely speak to your PT's and ask them exactly why they are icing your RSD limb and whether they know they shouldn't do that, especially seeing as it's making you worse. It doesn't sound like they are very trained in dealing with RSD if they think icing is a good thing to do!!

If you aren't happy with your PT's, please try and find another one! It is REALLY important that you find a PT that is trained in dealing with RSD and knows what they are talking about otherwise it will only make things worse!!

I guess it's different for everyone but seeing as though the ice is making you feel worse, I wouldn't use it at all and would speak to your PTs. Theres quite a few articles on the internet about the use of ice in RSD that might be worth taking to your next PT appt.

I hope you can get things sorted soon and feel better! Please keep us posted and know you are in my thoughts!