Worsening joints | Arthritis Information

I was wondering what others are experiencing with their joints. I am on everything for RA and still at 15 mg prednisone every day. I cannot get down on it and seem to be constantly flared.

I already have osteoarthritis in both knees with the promise of getting two knee replacements as soon as I get old enough. Now, both shoulders are causing problems. I have tendonitis, a bone spur and a bone cyst in my left shoulder. The bone cyst is from the RA. It looks really wierd on the MRI, like someone put a marble in the joint.

I'm been reading other's comments, but I don't see much on joint replacements, long term damage, etc. Yes, I am back in physical therapy (for the third time). Different part of the body calls for another session.

I am starting to feel like a broken Barbie doll (except with a moon face).

Anybody have any thoughts? I have never gone into remission in the last four years of having this. I started out in the hospital.

Deanna38823.5992361111Deana, So sorry to hear all the trouble you're having. I am not facing joint replacement like you but I too am having trouble going into remission. I have improved with medication but I'm on so many things: prednisone, plaquanil, metetrexate,folic acid, and enbrel. I can't get off the prednisone either although i'm on a lower dose than you (4mg). I have both OA and RA in addition to fibro and Sjogren's. I think they just keep adding meds until the inflamation is at bay. I've only been formally diagnosed since the last year and a half with RA, but I think I've had it for years. I can say that the heavy duty meds have made a difference in my ability to function. I hope with the proper adjustment, you'll be doing better soon.

Linda,

Thanks for the reply. You seem to have all the same stuff, all the same meds. Although, I can add more to my list, but heck who wants to do that.

Not that I want anybody else suffering, but it does help to know I am not alone in how difficult this is to live with at times. Healthy people just like to think its just getting older. Remarkably, my children understand better than my parents and children.

Anyway,

Thanks

I am sorry it has been so hard on you. It really seems like it hits some harder than others, and perhaps not recognizing it for so long gave you more problems than you need. I hope you get some relief soon. I really think that mine is more of a mild to moderate progression, although I still have daily problems they are just usually ignorable. I dont know if being symptom free happens. I guess it does for a few, but for most it is just a matter of being able to function with the symptoms. It sounds like you are working hard to get the right combination of meds and exercise, good luck! I hope you get it worked out soon! Deanna, You have been very brave. I have not had joint replacements but see them coming in the future. I have had ra for almost two years - ups and downs but no remission. I so know your frustration with prednisone. I tried and tried to wean myself, I finally did. I am in more pain but you know what - you don't realize how much pred. effects you until you are off it. But not until you are feeling better and that day will come. Do you think you have a good doc? Maybe you need a change in your treatment. I also have been told that I have severe ra but one day at a time and there are good days. Stay in touch and let us know how you are doing. Rox

Deanna,

I am very sorry......you seem to have more than your share on the plate. Improvements are being made every day involving joint replacement and you should need one, I'm sure you'll do fine. I am lookint at wrist replacement in the near future and I'm a bit nervous about it, but there is no other choice. Like they say " I may not be satisfied with the party, but while I'm here I'll dance."

I would like to say a word about remission. A few years back, I became fed up with taking so much medicine and stuff. I thought I was doing OK and was sure I was in remission. Although my Dr. advised against it, I went off my meds. Within 2 weeks I had the worse flare-up of my life. Ended up in the hospital then a wheelchair. Took me months to recover. I just want to caution everyone not to go off their meds.......even if you think you are in remission. Markaye