Walking on Rocks

[Jackadoodle]

Hi, how fortunate that we can share experiences on this forum, I find it very helpful and therapeutic, I have been on MTX, Benepali, and Hydroxychoroquine, for 2 years now and my RA seems to have settled to the normal aches and pains associated with old age, however I am concerned that my ankles have started to swell and my walking distance reduced as it feels like I am walking on rocks all the time ankles are very painful and I can only stand for approx 2 hours until the pain is unbearable if I then have a rest for half an hour I can then go for another 2 hours but it is still like walking on rocks, on seeing my RA consultant he thought it was water retention so I tried some of those compression socks with no reduction in the pain, I now have to go for a lung function test and heart scan as he says that perhaps I am not receiving enough blood flow to my legs, just wondering I anyone else has had a problem like this and could it be related to MTX and Benepali.

[sylvi]

Try going to a podiarist who specialise in RA as they might be able to help you.xxxx

[strath]

I'm no expert but wondering if you considered any of the following.... If it's blood flow or not, a stationary bike to keep legs moving with low impact, a revivtive to increase blood flow, herbal teas to reduce water retention?

[Megs4]

Walking on rocks. I know this very well. Although you should have those tests and follow up on the swollen ankles to eliminate other causes, that may be your ra too. The walking on rocks shouts ra to me. My goodness, I suffered that for a long time before the methotrexate cooled my feet down and stopped it. Unfortunately, it came back and then I needed higher doses plus leflunomide. Some relief, but eventually the only way to stop the burning and walking on rocks sensation was Enbrel. So far, so good after 6 months. Not just the feet, but the fatigue is give along with all other ra type pain, leaving just the cold osteo pain. I'm happy with this result. I had to change doctors to be heard. I must add that I wear the ultimate in German sandals to support my feet and don't expect to be able to wear nice shoes, but hey, I can walk!!!i had got to the point where I couldn't walk for the burning walking in rocks pain in the forefeet. Good luck!

[Lragan]

Honestly I have it in my feet and your description sounds like my feet. I had swelling in my feet and lower legs a blood pressure medication was added to the one I already take and need it also has a water pill in it. Meaning I use the restroom constantly. The swelling in my lower legs stopped however not in my ankles and feet when I have a flare. I went on a walking field trip with my class (I'm a teacher) and boy have I paid the price. I am now hobbling about. The swelling went down but it hurts terribly to walk. Keep taking pictures it helps when you have an appointment. There are times when suddenly I'm in bed and one foot will get really hot next thing you know it starts to swell, my toes will feel like they're broken. My RA doctor had doubts of this until I showed her the pictures. I looked like I had two different feet. My PCP doctor didn't know what to make of it either.

I wish you luck, keep off your feet as much as possible, wear supportive shoes, and take pictures.

I hope this helps,

Lisa

[Lesley_1]

I started using a four wheel Walker with seat initially. Helped in the house so I could sit to do dishes or cooking.

Over five years I graduated to a big electric gopher outside and Walker inside.

Now I have a big electric chair that I can use inside and out of my disability modified unit.

I have a support person who takes me shopping in my manual wheelchair.

I still use a Walker inside some of the time but now when the pain is too much I go to bed and have a sleep.

I was told that sheepskin use was old fashioned but I ordered a medical lambswool that I sleep on and have another on my recliner chair. If ankles are swollen you need a recliner and the foot of your bed raising. Hospital bed is good for that as they can be raised by the patient in three sections to support joints etc