Kenalog shot. Yuk!

Since I stopped taking my immunosuppressant (Leflunomine - Arava) a couple of months ago, my pain levels in my joints are progressive getting worse. I also finally tapered all the way off prednisone in December. Of all places, my shoulders and elbows are out of control painful. My rheumy has given me plenty of pain meds for fibro and joint pain but I don't want to become a pain med junkie. It's gotten so bad that i don't feel like getting out of the house. And the pain keeps me from sleeping at night.

So today I spoke with rheumy's nurse. Dr. doesn't want me back on Arava because my liver enzymes were up. He suggested that I come in for a Kenalog shot. Has anyone here had one? It's a big dose of steroids and I swore I would never take steroids again. That you'd have to bury me first. But this pain is unmanageable.

I need to start taking yoga, now that my foot is healing well, and maybe physical therapy.

Any ideas, comments, suggestions? Magic pills? I haven't been taking my hot baths nor using ice. Silly me. I know to do that.

((((( Pat )))))) I sure hope you get some relief soon! I've had steriod shots before not sure if they were kenalog or not, but they never helped me. Unfortunately I have been taking more pain meds than usual but I am like you I don't want to become dependent on them but they work so well, it's nice not to be in pain. Try a heating pad and maybe a hot bath, that always help, temporarily of course.

Hang in there my friend. Sending hugs and prayers your way! Love ya

Yep. I've had a couple. They help me, but take a few days to kick in. The shot itself doesn't hurt at all. I get one when I'm in a flare that just won't quit! Hope that helps!