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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Pain Management

nomorera
nomorera
It's been awhile since I've posted. I am having a rough week. Yesterday the pain had me in tears and fear of the future had me stuck in a bad place. I went to an EAP counselor and she recommended a meditation class at the local hospital aimed at pain management. Have any of you tried it? I am also taking NSAIDS and Turmeric, but NO other meds. I am working and getting this under control with diet, supplements, adrenal support (hydrocortizone) and LDN.
I am not sure how all this is working but I am interested in more holistic approaches to this disease.

I started a guided meditation on youtube today for pain management and it seemed to work. Weird, but hey, I'll take the relief where ever I can get it.
Anyway - your input is appreciated.
sharonouch
sharonouch
Meditation really does help me. Sometimes I focus just on my breath going in and going out. I am on MTX and do take pain meds when needed. Hugs.
nomorera
nomorera
Thank you for your responses. Especially Jenny. Yes it is fear that keeps me from further exploring the heavy duty drugs. Methotrexate immediately (within 5 weeks) lowered my blood count and affected my liver values, then because of calf cramping they thought I had bloodclots in my legs. This really turned me off. The biologics are EXPENSIVE and I don't know how to pay for them even if I was open to them.
Also, I am a needle phobe so getting my blood checked every other week or so caused me a tremendous amount of stress, and the thought of injecting myself makes my stomach turn.

Today - this one day.... (with the help of 400mg NSAID) I am grateful to say I have NO pain and NO joint swelling! I am going swimming tonight and enjoying a day free of pain!!! The meditation seems to be helping me stay centered. I am praising my creator for this gift!