I've dealt with chronic pain my whole life, but specifically for the past year I have been suffering with chronic pain in both hands. The pain usually seems to be affecting my joints, and there’s also times when there’s inflammation and some swelling. I’m writing this for a couple of reasons. One, it’s a summary of my medial journey for the year – to show a clear picture of what has happened. Second, I’m honestly at a loss at this point.
The first place I went to was a physiotherapist, where carpel tunnel and tendonitis was discussed. After twelve appointments and continual exercises, no improvement was found (and in some cases it was even worse).
After that my family doctor referred me to a rheumatologist. She ran several blood tests which found no signs of RA, Lupus, and other assorted items. I tested positive for a couple of things, but those things should allow for anti-inflammatories to work; and none did. Four different kinds of anti-inflammatories were tried, none worked. In addition, Tylenol 3 and Tramadol both also did not relieve the pain.
I tried acupuncture, also didn't work. And was quite painful.
I then saw a naturopath, who did some Applied Kinesiology tests. There I tested positive for intolerance to all grains and dairy protein. I went on a paleo diet and fasted from nightshades and legumes for ten days – and saw zero improvement (although I did lose 18 pounds).
The next thing I tried was medication for fibro, which did not work at all. Following that I tried taking an IgG test, in which cow’s milk and rice were my highest rated intolerances. I’ve cut out dairy for the next bit, but the catch here is I already gave up dairy for ten days with zero improvement.
Some mornings I wake up and my body feels swollen. It does seem like the weather is impacting things a little bit as well. And I’m not sure if certain foods are causing a reaction; I had a A&W burger and my hands started swelling later that evening. But I am fine going to Arby’s and McDonalds.
So I’m not sure on where to proceed from here. So far a family doctor, a naturopath, a rheumatologist, and physiotherapist can’t figure it out. Four anti-inflammatories, two prescription pain killers, and fibro medication have not helped. There’s inflammation happening and joint pain, but x-rays showed minimal joint damage and blood tests showed nothing huge is happening (yet).
I’m going to seek a second opinion from a general practitioner, but after that I have no idea on what the next option should be. I know something is going on and it’s comforting to know that my joints aren’t damaged (according to the x-rays), but this constant pain, swelling, and inflammation isn’t normal.
But after that second opinion, I have zero idea on what to do. I'm open to suggestions and ideas.
What I didn't see in your write-up was that you've seen an allergy/immunology specialist MD. They should do a serious, thorough, scientific workup & testing of what you actually are allergic to & what you're not. You might have something that can be corrected by diet, &/or you may need allergy shots. Having ruled out the rheumatology & physio things (Good.), it sounds to me like that's the next thing to look at, but I think you absolutely need to do it with a specialist doctor.
You also didn't mention antihistamines. Not that you want to live on chlorpheniramine maleate, but it would be interesting for your new allergist if you showed any relief or improvement. (Over the counter as Chlor-Trimeton, or other "drugstore generic".) Try the 4-hour version, & don't take more than the label directs.
Originally posted by emma(Not a doctor -- don't play one on TV.)
What I didn't see in your write-up was that you've seen an allergy/immunology specialist MD. They should do a serious, thorough, scientific workup & testing of what you actually are allergic to & what you're not. You might have something that can be corrected by diet, &/or you may need allergy shots. Having ruled out the rheumatology & physio things (Good.), it sounds to me like that's the next thing to look at, but I think you absolutely need to do it with a specialist doctor.
You also didn't mention antihistamines. Not that you want to live on chlorpheniramine maleate, but it would be interesting for your new allergist if you showed any relief or improvement. (Over the counter as Chlor-Trimeton, or other "drugstore generic".) Try the 4-hour version, & don't take more than the label directs.
Thank you for your post!
I did see an allergy specialist, but it was mostly for outdoors stuff. I'm mildly allergic to dust and birch.
I haven't tried antihistamines though.....that would be interesting to try.
Originally posted by Guru ZimMake sure that paleo really meant gluten free before you rule out the grain intolerance.
The osteopath said zero grains, so I went dairy/grain/nightshade free. Meat, greens, nuts (but no peanuts).
Originally posted by WhitebaconHave you seen a chiropractor?
Yes, for eight months. It was not a positive experience.
My point is, Gluten free does not mean grain free. For example, MSG contains Gluten. Soy Sauce contains gluten. There is a ton of stuff that you might not have been thinking contained Gluten while you were doing Paleo.
Originally posted by Guru ZimMy point is, Gluten free does not mean grain free. For example, MSG contains Gluten. Soy Sauce contains gluten. There is a ton of stuff that you might not have been thinking contained Gluten while you were doing Paleo.
Also not a doctor, but a few things you haven't mentioned: You mention rheumatoid arthritis, but could it be regular ol' osteoarthritis? Have you had your thyroid and/or hormone levels checked? Both of those can cause serious swelling and pain if out of whack. Have you seen and orthopedic doctor?
Have they checked for gout? I know the majority of people suffer with it in their lower extremities, but it's not unheard of to effect (affect?) the hands as well.
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