Getting a proper diagnosis

AndyJay2021

Hi all -

My first post on here in the hope of getting some sound advice.

I've suffered with neck pain for a number of years and after a recent bout of intense pain, pins and needles in my arms and some dizziness I went to the Doctors and he sent me for an X-Ray.

My Doctor advised me that I have two vertebrae out of alignment and the bones show I have rheumatoid arthritis.He has made an appointment to se a physiotherapist who will show me some exercises that I must do or I will lose some movement in my neck. I'm 53 (M) by the way.

My question really is, is my experience typical of a diagnosis or should there be more to it?

Hope someone can advise.

Andy

Shell_H

Hi @AndyJay2021 - Welcome to the online community!

You've been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and you're wondering if your situation is typical.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is most commonly diagnosed through a blood test, as it's an auto-immune condition which normally shows up in your blood. There are other ways of diagnosis - X-ray being one of them. I would imagine your doctor should also refer you to the Rheumatology department in your hospital or local clinic, as you will need to speak to specialists with this. Have a look at the information we have on Rheumatoid Arthritis, as it's important for you to understand your diagnosis:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/

Your Doctor is absolutely correct on referring you to a physio and giving you exercises to look after yourself. Exercise is one of the most beneficial things we can do to prevent long term deteriation and to help manage pain. You siad you've got this in your spine and it's affecting your neck so I'd also have a look at the information available on neck pain as this has information on magaing the symptoms and will also give you more information on suitable exercises for you:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/neck-pain/

I'm sure our other memebers will be along and share their own stories. Do have a look around the community and feel free to join in anything you like - we're a freiendly bunch and we talk about lots of different things.

It's lovely to meet you!

Shell

AndyJay2021

Hi Shell

Thank you for your reply. I will certainly be visiting the links you provided.

I'm booked in for a physio visit next week which is incredibly quick. I may pick their brains too.

Thank you for the warm welcome and I look forward to all advice.

Thank You

Andy