I learned to do everything one handed. Of course I use the affected hand as much as I can tolerate and sometimes more but I can't stop guarding it.

I know I still guard mine in certain situations because there's more than just the RSD causing massive pain. But I have spent a lot of time when sitting or waiting or whatever...it's become a habit...using my other hand to gently rub and flex my fingers. It hurts, but I just try to at least pay attention to my pain levels. It's taken a long time for me to a place where I'm not quite as protective of it, but I still have to be at some points. If you can hold your hand/arm against your stomach while watching TV or talking to people, and just start by getting used to having your opposite hand on the RSD area. Start slow cuz it's not gonna happen over night. I still work with mine and it's been over 5 1/2 years. As you get used to touching it yourself, you will eventually be able to relax a little. Just know it takes time.

[I know it is hard to guard a foot or an ankle, unless I plan on not walking. I go tomorrow to see what can be done about this. My prayers is that it doesn't spread for any of us. take care, ginnie

I realize this is an older thread, but for everyone that can relate to it, look up "qwi gloves". They're around 23$ online and work great.

Hypnosis with a pain therapist. Learning to take deep breaths as a response to pain escalation. Keeping pain at a lower level in the first place! By actively working on it, I only guard in the most extreme of flares when out in public now. By using a down pillow to protect against vibration when traveling, helps prevent alot of misery as well. I only drive very short distances (under 20 minutes one way is about my max.) it does mean giving up some independence, but by using trains, or having someone else drive, I'm still effected by vibrations, but am in less pain and safer to others as well.

Guarding a hand will cause a chain reaction leading to complications in your elbow, shoulder, trapesis (sp?), neck, down your shoulder blades, and the rest of your back. Then a combo of massage, stretching and warm water with Epsom Salts, etc. is needed to help those issues.