what vitamins, minerals are good for joint pain linked to hypo.?

[Koola]

In 2018 my hypo symptoms, many years after RAI (in 2010) -- some weight gain and tiredness -- worsened quickly, starting with stiff finger joints. Then in one month I gained 7 kilos while eating very lightly. 2 months later, back pain from stiffness. So I know it's not due to arthritis. My last endo. wanted to send me to an arthritis specialist, forget what they're called...

I tried glucosamine supplement, didn't help much. I once tried a sample bottle of Solgar 7 and it did seem to help. But I'd also started swimming. I hesitate to get it again because it's expensive. But now, even swimming doesn't relieve joint pains. that is, I'm happy in the water, but as soon as I'm out ...( like the little mermaid syndrome, lol) Any wise words from you helpful, wonderful souls? Thanks in advance

[shaws Administrator]

I would get a Full Thyroid Blood Test which is:

TSH, T4, T3, Free T4, Free T3

Also request B12, Vit D, iron, ferritin and folate. Quite often we have these deficiencies and if B12 is low I'd ask for pernicious anaemia to be checked. This is another autoimmune condition.

Blood should be drawn at the earliest, fasting (you can drink water) and allow a gap of 24 hours between your last dose of thyroid hormones and the test and take it afterwards.

Post your results, with the ranges for comments.

[Baobabs]

Are you certain you don't have something like Rheumatoid Arthritis as this is also an autoimmune disease?

[McPammy]

I’d get a full thyroid blood test as this sounds like you are under medicated. T3,T4,TSH. Also check your vitamins D,B12, folate and ferritin. These need to be at least half way or higher in the ranges to support your thyroid function. Ask the receptionist for a printed copy of your latest blood results and then get them done again for the above. You could always get the patient access app on your phone and then can access your NHS file at any point.

[HLAB35]

Solgar 7 contains some anti-inflammatory natural compounds like curcumin as well as Ester C and collagen. This does sound quite helpful for rheumatic joint problems. It would probably lower histamine too.

Have you met a rheumatologist? It may be worth having a referral. Prior to that though, ask for full thyroid panel and vitamins, so they can see the results.

Magnesium lotion or gel by Better You (you can get this from the High St.) is very helpful for localised joint inflammation. I use it on my back after gardening. Stings a bit on application, but some relaxation and relief does follow.

As well as rheumatoid arthritis, you may try looking at symptoms of Ehler's Danlos Syndrome. This is a group of genetic conditions that effect collagen production. People with it can have velvety soft stretchy skin, soft cartilage (ears), often very short sighted, floppy mitral valve, faint on standing up, problems with digestion, constipation, visible veins and loose hypermobile joints with a tendency to slipped discs or dislocation and sometimes scoliosis.

There is quite a bit of crossover with hypothyroidism - I suspect it's because of a gut connection and a tendency for those with EDS to develop autoimmune illnesses due to their gut issues and poor absorption of essential vitamins like B12, vitamin D and minerals.