Well over a year ago, my dogs were chasing each other and one of my nutters ran straight into the side of my knee cap. Problems with my knee persisted, then got worse and I finally gave up and went to the doctor last July. Blood tests and x-ray showed possible RA. Given Etoricoxib tablets which reduced the swelling in my knee but over the following months I felt pain in other places, mainly elbows, wrists and thumbs. Saw a rheumatologist last month, more blood test and hand x-rays done, she was not convinced it was RA. Covid-19 hit and my follow up appointment was replaced with a phone call - blood test positive for low titre RF and antiCCP, RA can not be confirmed. She advised normal corse of action would be to put me on immune suppressants but not advisable in current climate, suggested the possibility to start with hypochloroquine for immunomodulatory purposes, but I said not right now (maybe I was rushing through the call and not asking questions I would have asked in person).
So, that's the basic story. I'd love advice on what I should or should not be doing. For example, yesterday I set to work spring cleaning my chicken and goose shed, doing a bit of DIY, tipping out large and small water containers to scrub them clean, lifting and carrying. Finally stoped after having a good day outside and went in to feed the pets and the kids. My elbow was hurting and after resting it got worse and my back hurt. It could be that it's my age (late 40's) combined with the fact that I've not been as active since the knee thing. Sleeping last night was bad and the pain in my elbow feels like it will snap if I pick up my coffee, so I took an Etoricoxib tablet to see if that helps. I feel like for every hard working day I'm wiped out for the next two or in pain. I've got so much to do so I'm looking for the best way of coping. Never quite sure if and when to take these tablets or a better form of pain relief (my trusted muscle pain spray no longer touches the sides). Must be active, hate not getting things done. Maybe muscle strengthening exercises?