Fibromyalgia 17 years and counting

[Beachgirl47]

I feel for everyone toting this dreadful illness. I was diagnosed at 30 and osteo arthritis was a second diagnosis at the same time. Stress does not help, but the foggiest memory creates stress. When you've always been sharp and then things change for the worse, it is hard to embrace. I was hit as a pedestrian 3 years ago by an SUV and after two foot surgeries and elbow surgery, my fibromyalgia has been non-stop . One thing I must say is the hydrotherapy is very helpful and keeping your inner core warm is important. Neurontin and Robaxin are good. One is an anti convulsant used for neuropathy pain, and the other is a muscle relaxer. Strong faith is helpful because even though the flare ups are dreadfully dibilitating, time will come when a bit of relief is felt. I would love to know what is the best way to cope with the heavy arms and aching that radiates all the way to your hands. Opening jars and mixing up simple things is a huge painful task. 17 years ago my rheumatologist diagnosed me, and it's difficult to remember all of the ways to handle the flare ups and just day to day pain . We are in this together and support is so important, because there is no cure and over the past 17 years Drs do understand more, but the patients cope together with the mysterious symptoms of this illness of over active nerve endings.. I would love to hear anyone's story, because we can learn from each other. Be blessed and stay strong everyone.

[Greykitty]

Hi Beachgirl.we have alot in common. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia 25 years ago when I was 19..this past November an xray showed osteoarthritis in my lower spine. I was very mobile until January this year and then Bam! I hit the brick wall and slowly learning how to lead a different lifestyle with Pilates and hydro. Recently the rheumatologist told me to stop thinking of the past..this is the worse I've ever been..but now take one day at a time. Like you mentioned we will get stronger..together! Take care

[Beachgirl47 in reply to Greykitty]

Thank you , and I hope you're doing alright. It has been a difficult few weeks. Supporting each other through this walk is so helpful. This community is wonderful. May comfort be yours greykitty.

[TheAuthor]

Hi Beachgirl47

I sincerely hope that you are feeling as well as you possibly can be today? Welcome to the forum and it is wonderful to make your acquaintance. I have pasted for you below a link to our mother site, FMA UK which hosts loads of useful Fibro information:

fmauk.org/

I am so genuinely sorry to read of your suffering and struggling, and I cannot undo jars or open cans etc myself. I purchased several kitchen items that I find extremely useful such as a jar opener which is like a grip on a handle so I do not have to use too much force, and an electric can opener.

I want to sincerely wish you all the best of luck and please take care of yourself my friend.

All my hopes and dreams for you

Ken

[Beachgirl47 in reply to TheAuthor]

Thank you so much, most importantly, we are here to support one another and I'm glad to be part of this community. I send smiles, and support to everyone! Have a blessed day 😊

[TheAuthor in reply to Beachgirl47]