Coffee Bean ( I love the name!), I totally understand. So far I have not had a flare up, but I'm about to the have the hardware (plate and pin) removed from my left arm. My ortho doc and hand therapst feel that this is the only way I will gain more use of my hand. I know there's a chance my RSD will get worse. I've had numerous blood tests, a routine colon test with anesthesia, and x-rays with I.V. meds. They always use my "good" arm and a small needle. No flare ups with these procedures. I'll probably never ride a bike again, and I'm careful when I walk since a fall started all this. Can you find a local rsd support group? I'm new to this site, but you can definately find support here. Having a counselor to talk to might be a good idea. I agree with the others. Enjoy life the best you can. If you look around there is always someone more handicapped than you. When I start to feel sorry for myself that always happens. Also, my faith in God keeps me going. I look back at times and wonder why this has happened, but I know there is a reason. It makes me appreciate what I DO have. Hang in there. Susie

I often think it's the fear of pain and the fear of it spreading that does the most damage. The doctors have said this almost all along but now I get nervous just driving a few miles from home or leaving the house at night.

Imahopet, that is exactly how I feel. Unless people know what RSD is and what it involves, they can not understand the fear. I am getting so afraid to drive anymore, for fear of an accident and more pain. I am so glad to hear others have these fears (but not glad for your pain) and that I am not just being a baby.

I too understand. I fear going to the doctor even cause some that don't know that much about it will want to touch my effected area and that keeps me in back to viodin pain for a long time. Even knocking my leg makes tha pain rise. I fear falling so much. I am suppose to get a scs too and even with that or if my pain went away tomorrow I would be super careful. Never forget this. I am trying to find an rsd group too but the one in my area was canceled for a few months cause the leader got sick with her rsd.

That sounds so familiar. I'm afraid to do to much at work, I'm afraid to do much around the house, I'm even afraid to do much with my 8 month old daughter. I mean I do what I can. I do the dishes but hard to hold onto the scruber and bottle cleaner. I've been wondering how ppl deal with this too. I just can't get past the fear of it spreading worse, unfortunatly it is still spreading my whole right side seems to be affected.

Tiff