Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Crocs and canes.

I had my husband go to the store and buy me those big ugly crocs that used to be popular. The are very wide and soft. If it was cold I would wear those plush slipper socks in them. I also got fore-arm crutches, which really helped alleviate some of the pressure. Hot and cold is great too.

You should really talk to your rheumy. He may have better suggestions, or want to change your meds. Are you on any other NSAIDs? Some are more affective than others for certain people. For me, diclofenac is a lot more affective than Naproxen or Celebrex. Also, there are some topical NSAIDs that can be super helpful for your feet. It might be worth talking to s/he about it. If those thing aren't helpful, you need to talk to your rheumy again. It's possible that you might need to try a different DMARD, or add another. Possibly go back on the prednisone for a while, for bridge therapy.

Hope you feel better!

Aoife

Yes AoifeO gave you some good advice. Sometimes my feet hurt and swell especially after I have worked all day. I usually soak in a tub and elevate my legs on 2 pillows while I am in bed like now and that helps a bit. Arthotec works well and I am also on Tramadol when the pain is really unpleasant along with the Orencia, Arava and plaquenil that I take.

I also have a pair of custom orthotics - little pieces of heaven. Hurt like you would not believe the first week, fabulous ever since.

I've also heard that Crocs are really good! I'm going to check those out this weekend. I've not found anything to help the pain in my feet yet. That's how this whole thing started. I'm on methotrexate, plaquenil, prednisone, folic acid, B12, Lortab, Opana ER and Baclofen. With all these meds, you would think I'd be pain free for at least an hour, right? Nope! I also walk with a cane, don't shop at all anymore, and have filed for disability because when I discussed the issues I was having with my boss ( RA, Lupus, Fibro, Severe Neuropathy, Tarsal Tunnel), I was told I needed to stop all treatments so I could come to work, or dose around my schedule. (I've been with the company 10 years.) Was also told that maybe if I lost a little weight, it would cure me! Was also made fun of when I had to use my cane at work. I'd rather stay home and try to get well even if nothing's helping yet!

All of my damage is in my feet and toes. I can say Crocs are the best. Good cooling lotion and a massage helps too.

My RA started with pain like I have never felt in my feet and alot of swelling (My children called my feet squishy...lol). I am taking methotrexate...have only been on it for 7 weeks, but the prednisone is the only thing that took away the swelling and most of the pain. I agree with Aoife, talk to your Rheumy....maybe he needs to try new meds and start you back on prednisone until they can see what works best for you.

Best of luck,
Barb

Thanks everyone for your help...i see my Rheumy soon ...i Really dont want to go back on pred. thats my last resort..lol My rheumy doesnt believe in pain meds..like vicodin or any narcotic..so the only thing i have been taking is advil.....it helps a little..but not enough.


thanks everyone

Kim

Johnsons foot soap is great for soaking your feet. It is very soothing. Be careful not to inhale as you open the package...strong...

Sounds like your meds need to be adjusted or changed.

Wishing you relief...Take care

I hate to hear that you are having this problem. I am known around my house as the flip flop queen. When I go and get a new pair my husband laughs and asks if I really need another pair of flip flops.

Make sure and keep your feet warm. I have more pain if I don't. You may find that your closet has shoes of multi sizes. Mine does. I try and pick out something fashionable, but most days resort to comfort instead.

Its so funny to hear someone else is a flip flop queen! My family and friends make fun of me for wearing them all the time for everything lol. My toes swell to the point I cant stand wearing anything but them sometimes. Im so glad that I found this group so many things have "added up" after reading some of these discussions! Good Luck!