Recent content by ChinaCat

I'm having a flare. I don't think I need to describe how I feel - you've all been there. I got up this morning, per usual, and did my morning Range of Motion Yoga (that I made up for myself). I put on a Tiger Balm patch (which doesn't help, but hey, I'll try anything) I took 2 tramadols I...

i've used it but it didn't work for me. One of my issues is muscle spasms/cramping. For whatever reason, when the needles were applied, it would trigger various muscles in my back to spasm. I have also tried massage, cupping, scraping and .... dry needling. I have to say the dry needle worked...

I’m having a flare in my left side upper back/neck. It’s like a burning pain and I can’t get comfortable. I didn’t sleep at all last night. I feel panicky and hopeless and i don’t know how to resolve it. I’ve used dry heat and moist heat. I’ve taken Valium and tramadol (not at the same time)...

Well, poop. I was hoping you experts had a magical solution. But then again, you'd probably be millionaires if you did. I had to stay at my parents' house for a few days to help my mom post-surgery. Their kitchen is being remodeled, so there was no stove, no sink, etc. Stuff was EVERYWHERE. So...

Hi All, I got a major flare going on. Right side of neck/upper back is basically locked up tight. Can't turn my head, lift my arm, or basically move. Here's what I'm trying so far: Tramadol CBD Rx Ibuprofen Moist heat What else can I try? I called my dr to get Valium and a steroid pack, but...

I was recently introduced to CBD oil at the cannabis doctor's office. I was sure it was going to be a very expensive disappointment. But HOLY S%*!T!!! This stuff really truly actually works! I could not believe it. I have had this knot spasm in my back for YEARS. It hurts to take a deep breath...

Is it just me or does anyone else feel like they spend their entire day just trying to find a comfortable position to sit or stand?

Hey all, Once again, you are all on point. Thank you so much. Sometimes just a little perspective helps. I like the of the chicken/egg concept because I often wonder that too. "Is fibro making my body fall apart slowly? Or do I have fibro because my body is falling apart?" I know I didn't...

Hey Diamond, You busted me! No, I haven't had the tendonitis officially diagnosed. I mean, I have in the past (shoulder) but all the new stuff cropping up has not been seen by a doctor. The hazards of being my own armchair doctor, right? It's just so hard for me to wrap my brain around. Like...

BLARG! Now that I got that out of my system, I want to first thank you guys for helping me prep for my new rheumatologist. I made notes and she took the time to really talk to me. Well, as well as a doctor can talk to their patients, I guess. Anywho, I guess my real question is about...

Hey all, I saw a rhuematoid dr twice, and I have decided to see a different rheumatoid doctor. Not necessarily for a 2nd diagnostic opinion, as I can say with probably 85% certainty that I have fibromyalgia. Rather, I want to see if she can provide more insight and a better treatment plan...

Yes, I take tramadol. Not every day, but probably more days in a month than not. Can't remember off the top of my head what the mg dosage is, but I take 2-3 when I need it and I'm set. I am terrified of opioid-based drugs because of addiction risks, and I find myself being very mindful of...

Hi there, I think, and this is just my personal reflection, that many of us who have FM are also trapped in an anxiety/depression loop. We are anxious and depressed because we are in pain, and the pain exacerbates the anxiety and depression. When we suffer from depression/anxiety, we tend to...

HI Diamond, Have you had x-rays on your knees? perhaps there's also some arthritis going on that is being made worse by FM. It might be worthwhile to see an orthopedist as well. Hope you feel better soon.

Hi All, I highly recommend you all listen to this TED Radio Hour episode on chronic pain: Getting Better : TED Radio Hour : NPR