IHH,
There are a few possibilities that I know of, and I'm sure others can add more.

First - yes, pain can limit movement. One of the functions of pain is to stop you from moving an injured limb so it can heal.

Second - if you don't use an affected limb, or if circulation is badly decreased, you can develop ligament contractures, which will limit your mobility. One of the functions of PT for RSD patients is to a) prevent this from happening and b) try to reverse it when it does.

Third - If your circulation is poor enough, your muscles can begin to atrophy, and you can lose some ability to move the limb - this would have to be quite severe to impede mobility, and if this is happening to you, you need to speak to a doctor about it.


Sounds grim, right? The best course of action is to start some form of PT if you can - if possible, with someone who is familiar with RSD, or at least with nerve injuries/chronic pain. Mobility limitations can become a serious problem, and are harder to reverse as time goes on.

Best!