to keeping pain at bay. I've had RSD type 1 since March 95, and my physical therapist told me then that if I didn't move it I would lose it. I found wood carving to keep it moving. I feel lucky with my pt and an early diagnosis. She studied RSD and the docs knew it the first time they saw me. Having said that it is not easy to do, but it is crucial.
Finding something you love to do will help.