Thanks. The second rheumotologist keeps saying give the medicine time to work. I just want to get some relief to feel human again.

My computer crashed while I was typing, sorry. I take prednisone for my polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and it helps with the pain in my shoulders, arms and hands. I think it also reduces the inflammation in my feet and legs and is associated with my PMR. I also have small fiber peripheral neuropathy (SFPN) with numbness only in the feet and ankles. I tried gabapentin but after 2 weeks of it doing nothing for my numb feet I questioned the doctor who brought in her team leader. Once I told them my symptoms were numbness and tingling but no pain, he said the gabapentin only helps with the pain.

If you are taking gabapentin, it can help with the pain but will do zero to help with numbness. It also tends to require higher doses to handle the pain over time. Not sure if the body is adjusting or why, or if it's different for everyone. I have no medical background and have found all of my information doing research for myself. Your symptoms sound a lot like peripheral neuropathy. Have you seen a neurologist? I would definitely have a long chat with your rheumatologist and press him/her for answers. If they don't have any, it may be time to seek another opinion.

Easy to understand explanation of small fiber peripheral neuropathy by Matthew B. Jensen. Assistant Professor of Neurology, University of Wisconsin: https://youtu.be/8nrv7lRvvwU

I would make a list of all your questions and take them with you to your doctors appointment. It will help you get you questions answered. It's sometimes easy to forget when you are there and listening to what they are telling you.

John

I have autoimmune and my legs swell . My right leg worse. Its lymphodema so they say. I have to wear Compression socks but it doesn't always work those socks. Sometimes I think by using the socks they swell more than without using them. Go figure. I'm not sure what's going on but no clots.

Swollen legs hurt - and it ca be a big hurt. Are you sure you are using true compression socks or stockings? Do they go up to the knee? Do you stay on your feet too often? Even with proper compression socks you still need to be of your feet more than you are on your feet.

Yes true compression socks. Mercury or 15 -30 with a doctor script. Socks help while excercise swelling decreases. Then some days it increases. I'm not sure why. The socks help my feet from cramping. I have lymphodema whatever that means...? The socks go just below knee cap. I don't believe in on my feet a lot. Thanks soccerchick