Flare in ankles/swelling won't resolve. Anybody have suggestions to help ankles and swelling ?

[ragurl]

I went on Xeljanz and it did not work took a walk and both ankles swelled bad back in June. Been on humira and leflunomide, prednisone and changed diet but still have swelling in ankles. I don't want to increase prednisone hope it resolves any suggestions, or experiences ?

[Hidden]

You are clearly experienced in the RA business so no doubt know if the ankles are inflamed as opposed to circulatory issues. OH has had inflamed stiff ankle since last Dec. On high dose Dmards. Had inj into joint, minor improvement really. Saw Physio. Tried acupuncture for 6 sessions, Jury is out on that. Given graded exercise bands. Best ever when had 2 weeks off following General Surgery, but can't put feet up for evermore! ! I Intend to watch the webinar on exercise tonight and see if it sheds any light on these issues. (He has funding authorised to try different meds, but apparently they have to be especially ordered into the hospital). Its very frustrating for you and I hope you find resolution.

[ragurl in reply to Hidden]

Thank you

[Leics]

Hi, my ankles swell massively to at least twice the size every year usually in the summer. They usually go down to a near ish normal size when weather changes. I do find that putting ice packs on & raising my feet as high as possible usually on arm or back of settee helps. Unless I have to I don’t sit with my feet on the floor for more than a hour. If swelling gets too bad I try to drink as much water as possible and have had water tablets from doctors in the past. My ankles are never a normal size and very tender to touch, this is RA swelling not just water retention. Think it could be your meds that’s maybe causing problem ?

[ragurl in reply to Leics]

Thank you

[hawker955]

Prednisolone is anti-inflammatory so will not help if the fluid is non-inflammatory. In fact it could worsen the problem because it causes fluid-retention. Your best hope is gravity and exercise.

[ragurl in reply to hawker955]

Thank you

[ragurl in reply to hawker955]

Oh it's inflammatory I have no doubt - 30years of RA, this last flare has to of been the worst since diagnosis. I push hard - hike mountains and hills between 5-9 miles. I should not of pushed like that when trying new medication Xeljanz. It did not work. Hoping I don't have permanent damage - working on diet also to aid in healing

... thank you though - I value your thoughts.

[Mandalou]

Hi ragurl

Sorry to hear you are going through it, are you suffering pain in your ankle joints or could the swelling actually be fluid from your knees?

Sounds like you love your exercise and I'm seriously impressed, hill walking sounds amazing!

Hope this flare dies down, and your Rheumatologist finds a combination that finally does the trick.

All the best

Mx