Have you thought about a second opinion?

Hugs,
ladybrannon

I have went to a chiropractor, my family doctor, and 2 different orthopedic doctors. At my final visit to the orthopedic doctor he really didn't think that there was much else that he could do. He couldn't see anything out of the ordinary on my second mri. I went through months of physical therapy and that did make me stronger but I still have pain. no one seems to know. Who should I see? The pain gets worse and then better and that is how it has been for over a year. My range of motion is great. Why then do I still have pain?

Have you seen a rheumatologist?

Hugs,
ladybrannon

No, I have not seen a rheumatologist. What would he check for and do you normally have to be referred to one by your physician to go to one? My physician wanted to send me to a pain doctor. The orthopedic Dr. Did send me to a pain doctor and all he wanted to do was keep injecting me with some drug for the pain, even though it made me sick for 3 days. I don't think so.........

Hey there...As for the rheumatologist...It probably will depend on your insurance. If you have a ppo, probably *not*. If you have an hmo, you probably *will*.

The rheumatologist, I have found, will work methodically to find the source of the pain, how to stop the pain and fix the problem.

Ask your gp, if you need to, for a referral.

Hugs,
ladybrannon

Hi again,
i will defiinitly consider seeing a rheumatologist if I can. Thanks for the advice.

I have all the same aches as you have. They are getting worse, but at the moment i'm not taking any pain meds.
The change in seasons also affect me. I'm only 46 and feel 90 most of the time! Even though i'm always hot, and keep a fan on me at all times . Even with the ac on low. I find if I keep my legs ,arms and shoulders covered up at night it helps. I do go back and forth with the covers alot, but I do my best to keep those areas covered.

Sharon

You know sharon...You make a *very good* point. The cooler weather plays havoc on the joints. I noticed that about three days ago. Anyone else had to up the nsaids?

Hugs,
ladybrannon

Hey all,

the colder weather is coming in canada. I will have to up my antiinflammitories but the affect that the coolness has on my skin and health is worth it.

Smiles,
jenn

I try not to take any pain meds because I don't like to take a lot of drugs. But yes there are times that you just have to in order to get through the day, especially at work. I work in a factory and I am a machinist. Probably not the best job for me. I've been there 20 years and I am considering going on to school for something less physical. I know that the weather does make a big difference. Last night I had a hard time staying sleep. My arms/shoulders/neck were aching and burning. I did have to keep my arms under the covers for relief. I also had to get rid of the pillow for a little while. I do have the hot flashes on and off, not so much lately. I'm thinking that is the start of menopause though. I have begun doing more excersises and it seems to help somewhat.

Cindy