hi trix-- i have the icey-cold problem that turns the skin a reddish/bluish, mottled colour. at times, my palms are very red, with white splotches. the doctor says that this is caused by "vasomotor instability" and decreased "micro-circulation" associated with the RSD. the blood vessels basically go into constriction, so less blood flows into thr effected area. the skin is also thin and shiney, and feels like a bad sunburn. my fingernails have grooves in them. nerve blocks have helped with the circulation prblems, skin sensitivity, as do warm baths, gentle exercises and also a warm heating pad. sometimes, medicine can be prescribed that helps keep the blood vessels from going into vaso-spasm, such as diltiazem (cardizem is the generic). this also helped me, but i have rather low blood pressure, and had some problems with dizziness, and unfortunately, had to discontinue it.

the doctor has discussed a spinal chord stimulator. he has several patients who have had very dramatic results in their symptoms.

hope this helps.

brokenwings