Not to be a downer...but I have heard that Mayo is not necessarily the best place for RSD or chronic pain. I had tried to get an appointment (souldn't get one) and after speaking to some people with personal experience over there for the treatment of RSD I just let it go. That doesn't mean it's not worth a shot of course, your experience could end up being completely different...I just don't want you to put all your eggs in one basket so to speak.

I definitely think the doctor you are seeing is the wrong one if he is already telling you that you will completely lose the use of your hand. It does happen but if he were doing his job well then it should at the very least not be a CERTAINTY. Definitely doesn't seem like he has your best interest at heart and apparently he has nothing left to offer you.

I suggest seeing Dr. Lubenow at Rush if you can. If not...still look for another doctor. I am currently treating with a primary care doctor and since starting treatment with her she has quite frankly given me my life back. Between her and my physical therapist I have regained so much function and I am on almost no pills anymore (though I do still suffer a lot of pain...but meds weren't cutting it so I figured why bother with them). She also approves of my treatment with tDCS and wrote the scripts for the epuipment and this is a treatment that I feel is better for me than the more invasive ones out there (especially after I experienced spread after a block).