Lefty, I had similar questions and i have done a lot of research and asking others questions. I have found although RSD/CRPS has specific symptoms not everyone has all or experiences the exact symptoms at the same time. I started with burning, color and temperature change(that comes and goes) but over time it has changed. The cold weather or the cold airconditioning makes me worse. I had swelling that comes and goes where some people seem to have swelling that stays longer and is worse. Medicines have helped prevent a lot of my symptoms (except for burning or aching). For me i have found therapy or water therapy has helped keep my swelling to a minimum. Weight bearing in water has helped me when my toes began to curl under. Since everyone tries different treatments-,meds, therapy, relaxation, biofeedback,mirror therapy ... i think we all experience symptoms differently. What i have found is RSD/CRPS is unpredictable. I use to ask things like-why did mine spread, did i do something wrong but i have found it is just unpredictable if not caught early on. As for w/c if your claim is still open i believe you would have to request a petition to change the description of your injury to include RSD. I am not familiar with what Bob said about 90% burning itself out. I have only read/and been told if caught withing 3-6 months and treated if has a chance to go into remission. momof4