Hi Kelsey, I have had pain issues since the eighties. I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in 1990. The pain was so bad I was frequently suicidal. I never came close to acting on it though because I couldn't hurt my children that way. The doctors would prescribe a muscle relaxer for use at night, but nothing worked during the day. Trammadol never touched the pain so I quit using it. Through the years I developed several damaged discs, and had three surgical procedures done. Now I also have Arthritis in all of my joints, IBS, Diverticulitis, and small amounts of Diabetic neuropathy. Believe me, I have tried everything they can throw at you, and the only things I have found that provide relief are as follows, for me: Low carb, grain free diet, Lyrica, Mobic, Mindfulness, Prayer, Gratitude, Faith, and helping others. Gratitude, faith, and being grain free are the most important. If I slip and consume grain products, the other things I mentioned will barely work, if at all. I don't know how many people with severe arthritis are affected by consuming grains. And it might not be the grains themselves, but what they are treated with before they get to our tables. I just haven't studied it enough. I also keep a fairly predictable schedule of sorts. I pace myself, and try not to overdo it. Water aerobics classes are awesome, especially with the sauna right after. I am so thankful for this group. I hope to learn a lot here!
@mamasitalucita I appreciate your honest and inspiring post so much. I have had so many autoimmune illnesses that sometimes i forget to list them all,! treatment for lung diseases(sarcoidosis-prednisone) ruined my pancreas and gave me diabetes on top of it all. It is so helpful that you have shared your ways of coping. I also ry to stay as active as possible and have a lot of interests, but it is my faith that has kept me going.I have made a vow to myself that I will practive kindness and empathy in every way that I can whenever and wherever it is needed. I truly love others and want to have my life, as difficult as it often is, to mean something. I try to stay positive and when I can;t zI take a break and cuddle up in my “nest” for restfor acouple of days. Be blessed!