Spinal Arthritis and pain management advice/tips

ake018

Hi

Hope you’re all doing ok?

A few years ago I had an MRI and was told my vertebrae T5/T6were degenerating and that was it. I have enteropathic arthritis due to my Ulcerative Colitis.

Fast forward to 2 weeks ago I ended up in A&E due to chest pain and was told it was my costochondritis. My GP sent me for an Xray which showed significant arthritic changes to my spine. I’m in constant agony with my spine/rib cage. He has prescribed me additional Pregablin so I am now on 250mg twice a day as well as dihydrocodeine when needed.

I’m trying to do gentle stretches etc and using heat therapy but I wondered if anyone had any other tips on how to ease the pain please? I’m going to ask my GP on Wednesday when I next speak to him to speak to Rheumatology and get them involved.

Any suggestions welcome :) Thank you

Athina

Poppyjane

Hello @ake018 welcome to the online community

You have enteropathic arthritis and are trying to ease the pain with gentle stretches and heat therapy. Meanwhile you are experiencing agonising pains in your spine and ribcage and hope that your GP will get your Rheumatologist involved. Their involvement sounds a vital part of the investigation into your condition and the relief of your current pain.

Some of our members as well as exercise and heat as you have tried, use a TENS machine which may be something you could discuss with your GP. I attach a link

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/electronic-pain-relief/

and also one to the VA stretching exercises which many people find really useful.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/healthcare-professionals/professional-network-and-clinical-updates/network-news/december-2021-network-news/new-stretching-videos/

We are a friendly and supportive group and hope that you will find this is your experience when you have had a chance to look round the community .

Do let us know how you get on with your GP appointment on Wednesday.

Take care

Poppyjane

ake018

Hi PoppyJane

Thank you so much for the links and information I will check them out and post an update one Wednesday :)

Thanks

Athina

Sheelee

Hi Poppyjane,

Unfortunately I have no advice to give, but you do have my sympathy. This sounds awful.

All I can do is send you a 🫂 🤗 👐

Sheelee xx

Hope you get the help you need soon.