Massage anyone?

Ok, so the Humira hasn't kicked in yet (as far as the AS is concerned), my SI's are screaming and I'm walking really slow. My AS is really out of control right now. I actually, for the first time in many years had to stay home one day this week - because I couldn't move. My husband actually had to help me out of the car Monday night. Thank you vicodin (and that's saying alot because I rarely, if ever, take pain med's). The couch and heating pad are my best friends right now.

Anyway, I'm getting a massage on Saturday. I've only had one, once before - the most obnoxious massage ever (too light). I was offered a deep tissue massage, but don't think I can handle that type of pressure right now - so we're going to compromise. I'm one big knot of pain right now. I figured maybe if I could get my muscles to relax, I would be able to as well. What do you think - worth it or a waste of time?

As a side note, my hands (which has the RA) are actually feeling better. I'm not sure if it's because of the Humira, MTX or both. Wishful thinking? Go figure.

Anyone else get massages to help them along?

~S.

Hey Ducky -- no clue what kind of massage; not quite deep and certainly not one of the light jobs! It will be interesting, to say the least. My appointment is at 10:30...

You know, you're the second person to mention those home paraffin spa things. I'm going to look at them tomorrow. I know when I get a manicure my hands get 'dipped' and you are absolutely correct, it feels great. Thanks for the suggestion.

Will let you know how the massage goes tomorrow.

~S.

WOW! It felt awesome - it's just awful that you actually have to get up and drive somewhere afterwards! I had the nicest massage therapist. I had to fill out a medical questionnaire before I went in. We talked about what I wanted and we talked about my RA/AS and how it was affecting me. Very thorough discussion before we ever started. We ended up with a mix of firm / deep tissue. My back/shoulders were so knotted she used her elbows!!! (not as awful as it sounds, but it got my attention!).

I was very pleased, so much so, I'm going to get another one in 2 weeks! For now, until the Humira kicks in, any adjunct therapy that I can use to help me feel better - well, I'm going to do it. I'm going to do this every 2 weeks. They had a great 6 month program that gives me reduced fees for each massage, so for 6 months I figure it will be fine. We'll see after that. Once a month is probably where I will end up eventually. It just feels good!!!

Oh, forgot to look for the paraffin spa today. Am going tomorrow to look for that.

Thanks for checking up on me! How're you doing? All better yet? :)

~S.