Hi Lou

We make a right pair!
Your arm and my leg....

Haven't experienced arm/elbow pain, I have knee pain and can't bend/straighten my leg.
Pain bits, I take diclefen for anti flam and solphadol - spelt wrong, I'm upstairs away from box for correct spelling.
Ra can be frustrating, sometimes I think back to what I could do like step classes and jogging on the fields with the dogs, at least I can look back and say I did it !!

Did you have xrays of your elbow/arm done? Did it show wear up?
I had steriod injection last week, its painful but I'm pushing on till mid november for orthped surgeon for knee to see if it is a part or full knee replacement that is needed. Just have to rely on my stick when I walk, as I'm a bit wonky walking!

Did the consultant say if its swelling that will go down or offer any explanations to you?

I enjoy having the forum to share experiences/ask questions, hopefully there is someone that can understand your arm pain to offer their thoughts/pain relief tips.

Take care
Jane
Xxx

Hi Louise.

I'm really sorry to hear about the level of pain you are having to endure right now. I think you should think about speaking with the GP about pain relief, and maybe have something stronger for you to take when the pain is really bad, and for when you need to sleep. For me, Tramadol works really well at night, and I have varying strengths of Cocodamol to help me cope with more moderate pain. Secondly, I don't know if you are on any new drugs and waiting for them to work......but if you have been on the same dmards/biologics for a long time, then maybe you should ask for an appointment with the consultant to reconsider your drug treatment.

I do hope there is some let up for you soon. I know how the constant pain can wear you down. Good luck, Naomi. X

Hi Lou - I posted you a reply on your other thread, but just wanted to say I take Naproxen for pain control - 2 every day, as well as my dmards, and although they are working well I know that the pain does need controlling too and that's why I keep taking Naproxen. I agree with Naomi and would suggest you talk to your GP about trying something different, also can you get to see the physio, because they might be able to help with some gentle exercise to keep your body moving and relax your muscles.

Please try not to worry, because stress makes pain worse, and enjoy your day off work and pamper yourself - sometimes being super kind to yourself is the best medicine in the world!!

Sylvia xx

I think you could do with a referral to a pain management clinic and they can discuss with you designing a proper pain strategy
There's lots of options.

I take long acting zomorph and top it up as needed
I take paracetamols every 4 hrs as much as allowed and then there's the gabapentin for the nerve pains
My elbows haven't straightened for some years now.
Better bent IMO than sticking out straight
Anyway

Tough going your end and it sounds like the ra isn't controlled and is generally having a strop.
Much love

Jenni x