Moving On To Another Trial

[IslandLife53]

After a year on weekly Humira injections; I’m switching to Cimzia. Additionally, I inject MTX once a week and take 5 mgs of prednisone. I have 3 types of arthritis: RA, PsA and OA. It is a delayed diagnosis due to a misdiagnosis by a rheumatologist 3 years ago. I also have neurological factors to consider in treatment. I suffer from surgical trauma from a simple bunion surgery a little over 12 years ago. Again, by the hands of a doctor. A revision, a year later provided no relief and then reconstruction of the foot. Needless to say; I’m have been in moderate-severe pain ever since the block wore off from the original surgery. I have acquired RLS, as well as CRPS in both feet. Presently; I have two implants; one is a spinal cord stimulator and the other one is a DRG placed bilaterally on the L5 to provide some relief for the foot pain, burning and weird sensations.

I have tried just about every procedure (epidurals, RFAs, injections directly between toes, ketamine infusion, about 100 PT appointments, acupuncture with and w/out heated needles, an ancient Japanese art of healing, yoga stretches and a lot of mental health appointments to support acceptance of living with pain 24/7.

As most of us know; to get ahead just a tad would be so very awesome but I’m not there yet in spite of all the above. This week; I’ll be having two revision procedures on each of the back implants as I start Cimzia. Humira did not work after a year’s trial. It’s been a challenge to find specialists that are skilled in their respective areas and will truly listen plus be understanding. As you can tell; I do not have a good track record with specialists. Their bad, not mine! That pretty much is the current state of affairs. One last thing; even with all the above disappointments and challenges; I can recall divine intervention coming into play.many times. I have great faith and hope in the upcoming procedures

[Hidden]

Seems like things have been difficult for you. It’s wonderful that you’ve had access to quality medical care, for some it’s very difficult to obtain any at all. Hope things improve for you

[IslandLife53 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you! You are so right on regarding quality medical care. I have to work hard at keeping up to date on my concerns, advocating for myself and then convincing a doctor to really listen and trust that I know my body better than they’ll ever know Best to you, as well.

[Gnarli]

I truly hope that your latest procedure and the Cimzia bring you the relief you so urgently need. You are obviously a strong person, having already dealt with so much pain and suffering, I just wish it hadn't happened this way for you. I wish you all the luck in the world. Hugs

[IslandLife53 in reply to Gnarli]

Thank you so very much for the kind words and wishes. It means a lot coming from a kindred spirit:). Prayer, probably the best prescription readily available 🙏