Thursday, May 31, 2012

Wednesday, December 30, 2009 The Complainer asks

Q: I don't know if I have rheumotoid arthrisis or plain arthrisis in my hips and shoulders upon waking

I have been to a rheumatologist and had an array of tests but they all came back negative so I continue to suffer from aches every morning upon waking especially in my hips and shoulders ands sometimes even my stomach muscles. I tried medication but it not seem to work so I use a heating pad before I go to bed each night and that has had some good effects. I manage to walk at least two miles daily throughout the year except for bad weather conditions. My left hip continues to bother me from playing in an old-timers softball league and taking a bad fall but I had x-rays at several different orthopedic surgeons and no need for a hip replacement. I go to a chiropractor once a month for adjustments on the hips and other areas but no real improvement. I am 68 years old and can bear the pain but I wonder if someone out there has any suggestions to improve my condition. Thank you for any help or information you can give.

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12/30/09 10:54pm

There is the possibility of something other than RA causing your pain.  Arthritis can come from psoriasis (psoriatic arthritis) or certain infections.  A friend of mine has psoriatic arthritis but blood tests showed nothing.  She's been on methotrexate for 20 years but the rheumatologist wouldn't treat her.  SHe goes to an MD who has arthritis himself and is knowledgeable about the medication needed.   Lyme disease or certain other infections can cause arthritis too - hopefully you did get checked for these...

    It must be frustrating not to have the test results that would enlighten both you and the doctor!   Have you considered getting a second opinion?

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By The Complainer— Last Modified: 11/16/10, First Published: 12/30/09