Hi William, I have only had RSD for a little over 10 years. How awful for you, so much time. I've had a lot of the last week with sort of mind blowing pain. I think because, as you mentioned, winter is coming. Fall used to be my favorite time of year, but we have had about 3 days in the last week, that were considerably cooler and I have been a wreck. It's not even cold, it's startlingly beautiful, but my pain has been awful and it's got me thinking of all of the things I can't do. Not something I usually dwell on. Hang on and get some fleece socks. That is my cold weather friend. I can't stand socks with even a tiny bit of elastic. I could scream with things that touch with any firmness. Fleece socks are soft and warm and they don't really touch my feet or ankles, they just snuggle me softly. I think I have about 10 pair now. They last years and since I moved to a higher elevation last year, I love them even more. If I had a sewing machine or knew how to sew, I'd seriously make them and mail you all a pair. They are that awesome.

Welcome ad hope to hear from you here. Pulling off 18 years tells me you are a pro at managing this curse.
Warm wishes, Sylvia

Hi William,
Like all the others here I'm sorry for the circumstances that brought you here but welcome. Everyone here is so supportive and helpful!
I don't know what I'd do without this group!

I feel even worse for the spread to your kidney. What I've been told about preventing spread is take Vitamin C 500 -1000 mg. daily. I've had several nerve blocks & I don't know if that prevents it or not. I've only been diagnosed for 9 months and so far very little spread.

The people really do understand what you're going through even if they can't fix it. We can be ourselves here and don't have have to put on the brave face all of the time.