My thumb won't straighten out and is very painful. Some days unable to use at all
Drs all agree I have fibromalgia and carpal tunnel. A couple say I also have arthritis (neurologist, pain management Dr, and family Dr). The reumatologist says I don't. I also have pain in knees and shoulder (documented arthritis), ankles ETC. I don't feel I'm getting the right treatment with all the conflicting ideas. Also the reumatoligist said I can't be treated for fibromyalgia till i get control of my depression(which is mostly related to being in pain 24/7) as nothing will help the pain. QUESTION: I'm so confused, what is your opinion?
I think you should do two things; if you don't have one find one doctor you feel you can trust who can overview and manage your problems.
Two get a seond opinon from another rheumatologist. It could very well be that depression is exacerbating your symptoms and you should keep in mind that some anti-depressants are all helpful with pain but depression does not cause FM. Yes depression often co-occurs with FM but that's probably because. as you say, it's difficult having to deal with pain all the time and its difficult having a chronic disease period.
Thus while treating depression may help you feel better it will not cure your FM. Yor rheumtologist has put the cart before the horse. I suggest you find someone who will treat both your FM and your depression.
Good luck! It's tough making your way through the medical system sometimes with FM.
Here's some more information on FM (http://www.healthcentral.com/chronic-pain/fibromyalgia.html)
- Thank you for your input
- Ranked Helpful (2)
- Report Abuse
Safe Medication Use
Learn the safest practices for medication use and what to ask your doctor.
