Getting a Flareup Under Control
I am currently experiencing a pretty bad flareup. However, I have a positive attitude. I have a rheumatologist who is helping me with medication and sending me for Physical Therapy. I know I must take a pro-active approach to get the flareup under control. I am exercising, eating healthier and utilizing stress management techniques (mainly prayer) to cope. Unfortunately, like most people I have a lot of stress in my life at home and at work. I don't have all the answers. I need advice and support. My present diagnosis is Spondyloarthropathy. Going back to my late teens, I have been battling this. The inflammation did not show up in my bloodwork until 2022. Many times throughout my life when I would experience a flareup, I would adapt and get treatment. For example, instead of jogging, I took up swimming or water jogging. I would go for massages, acupuncture, chiropractic manipulation, botox treatment and therapy. I am prepared to do what is necessary to improve my situation. Please offer suggestions.
Hello,
How are you today? How is this flare now? I hope you are feeling better. You sound so resourceful and motivated to manage your symptoms and adapt when a flare comes your way. I really like your approach using different types of exercise and self care techniques. It sounds like a great combination of activities to keep yourself moving and coping. I am not sure I have much to suggest since you are doing so much! I am in fact curious to find out the benefit that you get from acupuncture or botox injections? Please tell me more 😀
I agree with you that stress can be an important factor which can make things worse for us. I have also focused on stress management with counselling, meditation, spending time in nature and with animals. I also find planning my week, my activities, writing things down help me to feel more relaxed and in control.
Take care,
Julie.
- adapting is key. I find that when I overdo things, I really regret it. Too much running/jogging or walking too far in one day just plain hurts. I have learned to adapt this by taking more breaks, stretching more, and doing less strenuous activities such as swimming or taking on therapeutic activities - my TENS unit is a wonderful thing to help with my neck and shoulder pain and treating the pressure points in my lower back/hips with therapy really eases the pain I get. I also have discussed this with my doctor who has prescribed me muscle relaxants, a JAK inhibitor (in place of TNF-inhibitors that didn't give me relief) and suggested PT/exercise. As stated, "It actually sounds like you are doing the things I would suggest" - keep up the good work. Another good activity I would like to include in my routine is to get a 3-wheeler bike and pedal around the neighborhood some. Wishing you the best of health and hoping others chime in with some great ideas for you. https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/treatment Warmly ~ Rebecca (community moderator) 
It actually sounds like you are doing the things I would suggest. I believe that motion id lotion and it usually works well for me. I am so sorry you are having these difficulties. So keep in touch and let us know how you are doing.
Best
Rick Phillips
Moderator
