The doctor visit yesterday went well. I truly love my family doctor. He is always willing to spend as much time as each patient needs, never rushing anyone out the door, and intently listening to each thing they have to say. Anyway, he and I discussed the pain, inflammation, and continued joint twisting. Previously, he was treating me with Meloxicam, OsteoBioflex, & localized Cortisone shots. I, of course, was also using other forms of relief such as Cheyenne pepper, Turmeric, hot showers, and heat belts. Now, it seems, it is time to treat me globally he said. My inflammation medication has been changed to Diclofenac Sodium & he gave me a sample of Lyrica. I’m going to attempt the anti inflammatory twice a day for a week or 2 and see if I have great improvement. If not, I’ll move on to the ever-so expensive Lyrica. I’ve taken 3 doses of the new anti inflammatory medication so far. With only 3 doses I can already see marked improvement. This morning, my hands were swollen but not near as much. I could even make a fist! I was able to get out of bed on my own! My knees bend with less pain & I am lifting my arms way above my shoulders!
I decided to look online about this new-to-me anti inflammatory. Sources I found online indicate this medication is used to treat cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, & fibromyalgia patients for pain. That made perfect sense, because pain results from the mass inflammation that occurs in these diseases. So, I’m hopeful 
I just know there’s an adventure waiting on me out there & soon, I’ll get to live it again! I’m not sure if anyone has ever kicked rheumatoid arthritis’ butt before, but I’m not giving up until I have!!!
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Comments on: "New Treatment Plan" (12)
Your determination is a constant source of inspiration, Chrissie. Much love to you, always.
Thank you fine sir
You are so sweet. You encourage me too!
I think this is positive news…although for my two cents, (not a doctor by any means) I had a friend on Lyrica and it didn’t agree with him as far as emotionally well at all. It helped with his pain, but he said that other effects mentally were not good. Sending prayers and thoughts your way.
Thank you M
I haven’t started the Lyrica just yet. I was truly hoping that the anti inflammatory medication would be enough, but The last couple of days have been about the same as they were before. I will keep a watchful eye on how the medicine affects my body. Thank you for your kind advice 
One of my grandmother’s has Rheumatoid arthritis. Her advice, throughout the years, has been to keep functioning. Until recently, she would weed the yard, mow the grass, trim the bushes, sew, and many other things. She said if you stop because of pain, the arthritis will win. She is close to ninety years old now, and only in the last two years has she been unable to work in her yard because her body is too sore.
She refused the medication the doctors offered her, but found a bit of relief with LIQUID Chondroitin and Glucosamine (sold at Costco). For pain she would use Anacin (aspirin, though she referred to it only by the brand name).
My heart goes out to you, Rheumatoid arthritis is a tough diagnosis to have to live with. But be assured, as from my grandma Mae, adventures can still be had while “kicking its butt!”
Thank you Rivka
I plan on staying active. Just as your grandmother said, I believe it will win unless I keep moving and doing what I can. My sissy will help me with a modified fitness plan as I can and I will never give up and just sit down 
Oh, I just remembered…
Grandma Mae would always lather herself in “extra strength Bengay cream”. So much so that we refer to its scent as, “Grandma Mae’s Perfume”. …she swore by it!
Oh dear, I’m not sure I can do that just yet, but I have used the Tylenol heat wrap belts, creams, and other OTC treatments before, LOL
Yeah — Glad you got some relief!!
Me too!
Hang in there… adventures are waiting to happen.
Thank you RB