Hello everyone. I've just joined and I am still in the process of trying to determine what my condition is.
I got referred to a Rheumatologist last year and got more blood tests and was promptly and silently discharged so I don't appear to have RA. I do have many issues however which is making life difficult. My feet, ankles, hands, and wrists all suffer from pain but more recently my knee and leg has become really swollen and my shoulders are just awful which makes sleep a constant challenge. I think my lack of mobility is also the reason for some of my other muscles being sore, as they are having to compensate to my movements.
I'm still not clear on whether or not having several symptoms is "normal" for OA but Fibromyalgia has been suggested (I only have a couple of tender spots though), possibly as an additional condition? This also makes it difficult when speaking with the GP as my knee or ankles often get forgotten in favour of my more serious shoulders issue. I was taken aback when asked how I get on when going for a run as I can barely walk these days.
Anyway, I really empathise with everyone suffering from Arthritis as it really is not easy to live with.
Thanks, Al