Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Group

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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Kimberley97 04/30/2016

I haven't been on in quite a long time but decided to check back in. I have just been so overwhelmed for so long. Not doing good back probs have joined the mix and I'm going to need a thoracic fusion waiting to see a dr. I have pretty much gotten to the point where I absolutely need a wheel chair at all times when shopping. But I'm glad to come back here where we understand and love.

Christine26 04/30/2016

Hi Kimberly, welcome back, I am back as well. So sorry you have been having a rough time of it. Always good to see you on the board.

carrottop50 04/30/2016

Yes welcome back Kimberley and Christine!!!

51percent 05/01/2016

Facing a possible thoracic fusion myself, make sure you have the best doc in your area to do it. It is dicey at best as they can't do it from the back and in order to do it from the front, it means going behind the heart and lungs or other organs if lower. SCARY!.

My doc is good and probably the best but I'm still saying NO for now. You can't "undo" a fusion once it is done. I will be in a wheelchair before I allow him to do my thoracic!

Big,true, sympathy for that predicament!

gentle hugs................Jen

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