I have had osteoarthritis for many years. Recently, had a flare-up in my right arm. Took prednisone and had relief after a couple of days. Had another flare-up on Sunday, this time in my lower right back. Could have been kidney stone, kidney infection, diverticulitis, etc. How do I determine what it is and how can I prevent such flare ups.
Thank you,
lowraind
In my experienced flare up can be the result of increased or unusual exercise. I generally known when I have overdone it or made some movement that my back in particular doesn't like. I wonder why you think it could be one of those other conditions ? Are you prone to kidney problems ?
Obviously if you are worried it could be some problem other than osteoarthritis then you should consult a doctor if only to put your mind at ease.
Preventing osteoarthritis 'flare ups' is a question of knowing your own body and working within your limits. But pain can flare up despite your best efforts. Then its just a question of keeping on with gentle movement, taking anti-inflammatories if your stomach can cope and using paracetomol for pain relief if it can't. Icing can help, 15 minutes on 45 off.
I find a Tens machine very helpful for lower back pain.
Hope this helps
Dee
Thanks for your reply. I do have chronic kidney disease, have had a kidney stone in the past and also have had diverticulitis with colostomy and reversal, so I was quite concerned, when after three days it did not subside, but rather increased. I did go to the E.R. (the doctors have no opening until Jan.). I also have spinal stenosis and wonder if that could have caused the pain, since I do not recall overdoing it, or moving the wrong way.
lowraind. I am afraid you have so many issues complicating the osteoarthritis that it's beyond me. I wish I could help more . Sorry
Dee
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