What does a flare look like for you?
Hello. I am going through the process of testing for a possible diagnosis. I had previously been diagnosed with RA due to blood test results but have never really had small joint problems. For the past 3 years or so I have been having events that pretty much disable me from doing most activities. I will start to get a little pain and stiffness in my lower back and then suddenly, overnight, I will wake up and barely be able to move. It sometimes takes 10 minutes to get out of bed. I can't put on socks or wear anything but shoes that slip on. Getting up and sitting down are very difficult. The last "event" I had lasted a little over a week and I was unable to stand up straight without support and/or walk standing up straight. It was the worst. I had been attributing these back events to other reasons, since I was told 10 years ago that based on my blood test results that I didn't have ankylosing spondylitis, but am now wondering if they might be a flare. Anyone else have similar experiences?
The worst flare I ever had was a gut-wrenching whole body and mind pain that lasted almost longer than I could bear.
Oh, how I understand. I thought my flare would never end. Five to six years and a diagnosis later, I've found a very effective treatment plan. How are you managing? Has the pain eased? Sending strength to endure this chronic inflammatory disease. Rebecca (team member)
You feel like you've been trampled by a herd of Elephants or sometimes worse but you know you still have to get on with work and all that crap so you force yourself out of bed and get ready for the day even though you really feel crappie.
This is a great way to describe the pain, debility, and fatigue associated with spondyloarthritis. I'm sorry that you know how it feels. It can take every ounce of energy you have to get up, get dressed, eat, head to work, and manage to make it through at least 8 hours of work. How have you been recently? What is your treatment plan? Many times easing the pain can increase energy and fatigue. Here is a link to an article that may have some ideas to help. https://axialspondyloarthritis.net/living/reduce-symptoms Though they won't take away the lasting effects of spondyloarthritis we hope that they ease the struggle. Thinking of you. Rebecca (team member) 
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Well said.
Many here would agree with your description.
May it provide a bit of comfort to know you are not alone.
My best for gentler days ahead, Doreen (Team Member)
Horrible aching in my hips and legs
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Truly uncomfortable.
Have you found anything that helps provide a bit of relief?
~Doreen (Team Member)
Debilitating Pain
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That certainly describes a flare.
How are things going today? ~Doreen (Team Member)
