There is already a lot of good information being exchanged here, so I'll keep it short. I had the surgery for L5S1 in 2004, which did repair the damage around my disk. I was diagnosed with RSD in 2010. 6 years. In hindsight, I now recognize many of the symptoms of RSD. I had never heard of RSD until the diagnosis of Type II Stage 3 ... the almost to late stage. Among the many symptoms and types of pain: Yes, socks are impossible, bed sheets too, and the edge of your pants rubbing the tops of your feet etc. Anything.

From this forum and likely other sources, you know what it is and how terrible it can be. Perhaps you don't have RSD. Great, but time will tell. I wouldn't wait to get help from a qualified medical doctor (neurologist) who has the credentials and expertise to treat patients with RSD. I would do it now. Early treatment is crucial. If necessary, the neuro will send you to a pain management doc and physical therapist.