bodyache back again

[bodyache]

Great to be back online!! Thank you for your messages about my treatment, much appreciated, my problem is that my new GP found I had Lupus (which I had never heard of) also arthritis, my GP is very caring toward me, she understands I am one of those folks 'if it aint broke, don't fix it' that is why she is treading gently with me , starting first with the cocodemol, (didn't work) now on Naproxen 500mg but not for a month only two weeks, and am due to see her next week, but have to say the arthritis is under control. After reading some of you guys problems, I am no where near as bad as some of you, only assume this Lupus varies in degrees, also I am extremely lucky in that now I am retired, if I feel run down or achy then my husband will take over. I have to say thanks for this site it is good to be able to vent and I wish all fellow suffers lots of hugs.

[Jbug]

bodyache, like you I must not have gone through a bad flare as yet, although I did have a couple that only a steroid pack would help. Mostly I take Naproxen or Ibuprofen and keep moving. The first thing we want to do when we hurt is stop and sit or lay down. But the first thing we should do everyday is move! Walking, swimming....these are two good things, especially doing water exercise as there is no pressure. There are going to be days when you just can't, and that's ok for a day, but more than that and you will only feel worse. When I sweep floors, vacuum, do general cleaning, I feel it next day and that's the day when I just walk. Hope this helps someone today!

[lupus-support1 Administrator in reply to Jbug]

Excellent advice - swimming or exercises designed by physiotherapists can be very helpful. A you say, the water means there isn't an additional pressure on the joints. Walking is also very beneficial. I also recommend,to help with walking, a certain kind of a Nordic walking "pole" which is now fashionable. I use a version designed by physiotherapists and while I am unable to use them as would someone who does not have SLE, nevertheless, by using them correctly, they use 90% of the body's muscles. They help strengthen the upper body and core, reduce stress on knees and hips, increases heart rate and can be used by a wide range of people, including those with arthritis, MS, Parkinson's. Nevertheless, always consult with your doctor.

The following, while published on a website that advertises its services,. does have an article written in "Physiotherapy Practice, Spring 2011" via the Canadian Physiotherapy Association.

Although I am not in any way connected with the type of poles I use, nevertheless, it would be inappropriate to advertise. A Google search using the words, "walking poles designed recommended physiotherapists" will lead you to some helpful websites. A word of caution: do not buy cheap poles made in China.

Be well!

Ros

[lupus-support1 Administrator]

It is very good to read you have an understanding GP. This is so very important for all of us. It is also very understanding of your husband who will take over any tasks that need to be done. Your husband like many other "carers" are people on whom we depend and should be recognised, as I am sure you do. I just wanted the opportunity to mention those who help us in all sorts of ways.

It is true that we can find other people who are worse off than ourselves. However, pain is pain and suffering is suffering. There isn't a competition and if you need "to vent", this is a place.

We also have another website called the LuPUS Message Board where you can also post questions and talk to other people. Registration is FREE and we offer free information and free online psychological support. We specialise in psychological support with our own counsellor/psychotherapist available.

By becoming a Member, you will have access to the private forums and because they are private, only Members have access and even bots and search engines are forbidden.

When you register, please use the following format for entering your date of birth: nn-nn-nnnn where n=number. Please use the "-" separator and not "/".

Finally, please go to: lupus-support.org/LuPUSMB and Sign Up.

I look forward to talking with you more!

Sometimes we need to talk to people who understand and who are not family or friends.

Be well!

Ros