Seeing MSK CAT about pain

Hello

I’ve had background pain in hips for many years. I’ve had flares in hands and wrists, shoulders, neck and jaw, toes and knees.

Some years ago I saw a rheumatologist who did MRI on sacroiliac and hips, and US scan on wrists - he noted inflammation and started me on prednisone and Sulfasalazine which helped - a lot.

Then he left and I was seen by another Rheumatologist who said I didn’t have inflammation and stopped treatment.

I’ve continued with background pain and fatigue and flares that mean I’m mostly housebound. Overdoing it on better days causes flares.

Just 2 weeks ago I got fever, severe fatigue and was weak - no appetite and just wanted to be alone to sleep. I got severe pain in both hips and large swelling on right side near hip. GP did home visit - she thought it may be bursitis but has referred me to orthopaedic and musculoskeletal clinic for assessment.

I can’t help but wonder if I have RA. I’d like to see a good Rheumatologist if I don’t get a anywhere with this appointment (6 weeks time). I have diagnosis of chronic pain, ME and fibromyalgia but this pain and how it comes on is worrying.

My left shoulder has not yet recovered after a very bad flare last December- I thought it was going to pop out of the socket and the dull ache was constant and horrible. I can’t lie on my side in bed anymore.

Does anyone know any good Rheumatologist in the North West, Manchester area?

Thanks.

[Dobcross1]

Hi I dont know which area you are in Manchester but the MRI rheumatology dept are supposed to be very good with several top specialists (they have a website - The Kellgren Centre). I was diagnosed at Oldham MSK by a doctor from Manchester Uni (Mr Bluett). Hope this helps and good luck.

[Hidden in reply to Dobcross1]

Hi,

Thanks very much, that’s very helpful - yes.

[Yogi-bear123]

That’s awful that a doc can do that!.. good luck and stay strong. Hope u find someone good.

[Hidden in reply to Yogi-bear123]

Thank you. It's not an easy time of my life with all the pain in my hips and fatigue - horrible.

[Hidden]

Update:

I had MSK CATS appointment. The lady I saw was lovely, very thorough history taken and assessment of symptoms and range of movement in hips.

She’s referred me to rheumatology via NHS Choices, I’m going to select (hopefully) the Kellgren Centre at Manchester.

Fingers crossed.