I'm very sorry to hear what you are going through. I believe RSD can spread at any point and to anywhere in your body...mine spread a year ago to my entire upper body from my left ankle. So strange...but what is RSD if not strange? If hip problems run in your family then maybe it would be worth at least getting it checked out to make sure there is nothing else going on. We all suffer enough from the RSD...it would be sad to suffer more if it were something that could be treated in others ways...though I agree that surgery should be avoided.

I hope you are able to find some relief soon. Don't feel bad about needing to use a cane. I have to use a walker now but it has allowed me to be much more active and mobile than I would be without it...which has been essential in keeping my spirits up through these difficult times. We all do what we have to so we can keep going. Take care.