Hello! I just wanted to share that I have been feeling great! I think my year long flare is finally abated! I don't know what to attribute to it, but my CRP has been below 1 since August/September. I decided to take a chance and halve my meloxicam (pain/anti-inflammatory meds) on November 1. On November 3, I started acupuncture. On November 21, I decided to test ditching the meloxicam altogether. I feel GREAT! I even started lifting weights again November 24 (starting with low weights and with exercises that don't tax my grip), and after 4 workouts, I think it's just added to my general feeling of well-being. Yesterday at my 9th acupuncture appt, my acupuncturist said that my fingers are looking skinny! Who knew that would be such a lift, but I am so hopeful to be able to squeeze my wedding band back on my finger again.
What else have I done this month? Gotten 8-10 hours of sleep EVERY NIGHT. I think that has made a world of difference. Sometimes I think the flares are there to remind you what is important in life and to make sure you truly appreciate the good days. I still have my nodules and neuropathy, but I can run (a bit) and already am challenging myself with my wee weight workouts (only about 30 minutes including a 10 min warm up). I am able to throw my 35 lb toddler in the air, carry a full laundry hamper up two flights of stairs, and squeeze the shampoo out of the bottle with just one hand!
Thanks for indulging me