Question about which joints PA can hit?

[BigJay]

I have moderate to severe P. None of my normal joints hurt much, but I was wondering if PA can affect the back or neck in any way?

[tmartha]

Good question, Jay, and unfortunately, yes. My back is now affected, although it wasn't when pa first hit in fall '04. Back pain (and a couple neck flares) started about 2 1/2 mos. ago. When I saw my rheumatologist a few weeks ago she said it's definitely a component of pa, most often starting in the lower back (mine is mid-back) but afflicting any part of the back and neck (cervical spine). This is part of what finally persuaded me to start a heavier drug - methotrexate - because the pain continually wakes me up after too little sleep. (yeah, that's why I'm up early now, too, and I know I'm not the only one)

What are you experiencing, and how long has it been occuring? Early diagnosis and treatment is a lifesaver - some people have gone years without proper diagnosis and reading about their pain and suffering is heartbreaking. Now many docs treat pa aggressively early on to try to stop its progression, because it always progresses and will eventually (and sometimes very quickly) will lead to degeneration of affected joints. My rheumy says the early aggressive treatment has been very effective for her patients.

Well, I'm certainly not one of the most knowledgable people about all this, but just wanted to share what I've learned. I'm sure others will be along to give you more info - and use the 'search' feature here to dig up more!

Best wishes -
Tani

[BigJay]

its strange

even after I have a chiropractic adjustment I just feel like I have to pop it, especially in my neck. It drives me nuts, it's stiff when it shouldn't be, and I have a lot of back pain at times, even when nothing is out of place

I guess my question would be answered if my back problems cleared up now that I'm starting enbrel for p.

[ouchyk]

Hi Jay,

Welcome. You should probably ask for a referal to a rheumy. Even just to get some baseline xrays, bloods etc. There are over 100 different types of arthritis out there and it takes a trained eye to decifer what is going on.

The good news is that Enbrel should help if you do have PA.

I read in another post that you're wife is helping you with the shots~ awesome, my husband runs in the other direction lol. I had someone walk me thru enbrel for months over the phone, I was terrified...I'm a pro now. :D Ready...aim....shoot...lol.

I wish you luck with it.

Karen

[zdoob]

PA in the neck was what finally tipped the scale and prompted me to medicate. it was ridiculously painful and got in the way of just about everything. it wouldn't surprise me if PA was capable of affecting any joint in your body. it even affects connective tissues - like in your sternum.

best of luck.