Rheum follow up

Hello,
I saw my rheumy today to go over my xrays and labs. It shows I have osteoarthritis in my neck which she believes is causing pain to radiate to my shoulders and hands. Interesting. She said it's not PMR bc my CRP levels are fine, and although she didn't rule out FM (no tender points) she said there is myalgia but it's musculatory skeletorial, or something like that. Either way, she is prescribing gabpetin for the pain. Does anyone else take this? She said it shouldn't bother my UC, but I'm still nervous to take it.
She said I will also need to see a pain specialist to help with my neck/headaches.

Hi decaf4me (love that name!): I have taken gabapentin for several years, and taken it as needed (that is something VERY important to discuss with your doctor for any medication--mine OK'd that; some doctors may not).
I like that it was prescribed in 100mg capsules. At first, I was taking 300mg caps, and they seemed quite strong, though I do seem sensitive to meds in general. But the 100 mg caps can take the edge off, and often, that's all I need.

I'm continually searching for ways to avoid meds in general, as they do make me a bit sleepy, and concentration can be difficult,, even on 100mg caps. I use heated bed buddies (microwavable), have microwavable "slippers" that help my stiff feet, especially in cold weather, use either ice or a heating pad, muscle rub cream, Salon pas patches sometimes, and take warm baths. I try to eat healthy and keep moving.

I know some people with fibro take gabapentin at much higher levels, but for me, I know I couldn't handle that. I'm also concerned about the cognitive effect of this and other meds, which is why I continue to look for new options.
Recently I read some rather concerning things about gabapentin--I think it was from The People's Pharmacy, but not sure*. And it's important to realize opinions are all over the place, so who knows? I just would prefer to get off meds altogether, but when nerve pain, especially, hits me, gabapentin sure does help!

Some herbs like valerian can relax you, and Puritan's Pride has something called Calm Tabs which contain several herbs said to help relaxation. But--be sure to check with your doctor for any interactions with other meds or anything else you might take.

I hope you find something that works well for you. Wish you the best!

*I just checked, and yes, it was on The People's Pharmacy website. I can't link to it as they have a store, but just do a search. One thing to remember, though, the comments at the bottom (on gabapentin) are opinions and not 'gospel.' They have over 800 comments(!) I do find them interesting to read, though, personally. Many pros and cons to consider.

We have had a lot of people on this forum that have taken gabapentin with good success. It certainly is worth a try. You might be surprised as to how it can help you. Also, pace yourself when doing things and start a gentle exercise program. Believe it or not, this helps with the pain. I walk as my gentle exercise and in the summer I swim. Yoga is a good gentle exercise too.

Thank you for letting us know what you found out. We are here to answer any questions you might have as you start this journey with fibro. I’ve had fibro for 32 years and have had a full and enjoyable life in spite of it! Keep a good attitude and look forward to each new day. That helps a lot too.

I hope you are feeling much better soon.

Sherrine

There is a product called a Bed Buddy that is long and about five inches in diameter that is flexible and can be draped around your neck. I’m not sure what is in it but you pop it in the microwave and it heats up and will give off the moist heat. A lot of our members have this. Or you can put rice in a tube sock and knot the end and heat it in the microwave. It also will give off moist heat.

Bed Buddy has several different products...even a cape for over your shoulders. You can find them at Bed, Bath and Beyond and other places....probably the Internet also.

Sherrine

Something I do is wet a hand towel & wring it out & pop it in the microwave for a few seconds. Be careful not to get it too hot. Moist heat is much better than dry heat. Also, alternate using heat & cold packs. If you have inflammation from the arthritis constant heat can irritate things further.

Something else to consider is getting a massage. I found a wonderful lady many years ago & I went to her mainly for migraines. As it turned out she incorporated reflexology & she helped me with neck & back pain too. Hopefully Sherrine will see my post & put in a link she has about finding a good massage therapist.

Hang in there.

Here is the link to find a good massage therapist. It usually lists what they specialize in. My massage therapist specialized in fibromyalgia and myofacial pain syndrome. There are special ways to massage people with these illnesses. It’s a gentle massage. Deep massages can make things worse.

https://www.amtamassage.org/findamassage/index.html?intent=brand&gclid=cjwkcajwza_mbrbteiwasdwvvlmfkehpmy6z_e_ng9q1opfuaajrrfjvszoplqzmea_urdut6cy7shocejoqavd_bwe

I use trigger point therapy whenever I’m having a problem. I fixed a frozen shoulder this way. I have The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook, which I got on Amazon, but I’m sure they sell it elsewhere. It shows where the trigger points are for the pain you are having. You will be surprised where the trigger points are located. It has helped me a lot.

Sherrine

I love the pressure point message. I take my tennis ball on vacation and the whole family does it now. Saves time and money when u are stiff and need your muscle to release. Thanks Sherrine for your post on that. I bought book on amazon and have used it often.