Guest guest Posted February 26, 2003 Report Share Posted February 26, 2003 Hello. I was diagnosed with PA 3 months ago after nearly 8 years of doctor visits, run-arounds, and (mis)diagnosis. I also have mild osteo in my neck and left knee. By the time I was diagnosed, my left wrist was pretty much destroyed. My rheumatologist has put me on methotrexate to try to arrest the disease and I also take Naproxen for pain and inflamation. I take extra folic acid, vitamin E and stress B-complex vitamins. I have wekly acupuncture and monthly massage therapy treatments. Until a few weeks ago I thought I was improving, since much of the swelling in my fingers had gone away, and I was able to function reasonably well. A few weeks ago I started having severe cramping of my left hand after periods of rest (for example after sleeping, or just doing nothing with my hands). It would go away after a few minutes - sometimes my bones would pop and I would be fine. The cramping is now getting progressively worse. I have had painful hand cramps for nearly 3 days straight and it is totally immobilizing me. The slightest movement causes agony. I can't bear being touched, touching anything, never mind holding or carrying anything. Driving has become a hazard because it is painful to turn the steering wheel. I don't know how I can continue to work, yet the idea of being totally disabled and at home is so depressing. I would be interested to see whether anyone else experiences this cramping pain, and whether this is a natural progression of the disease, or whether it could be a pinched nerve/tendon. Thank you. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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