I send greetings from my hotel. As I try to rest on this bed, I can’t stop the pain in my knees. Days of playing with my grandchild is rough on this old body. Arthritis is getting worse in my knees and the swelling in my ankles and feet has only worsened since driving here.
I continue taking Tylenol three times each day, as prescribed by my pain management doctor. βIt seems to work best before the pain starts and [for] preventing the pain associated with increased activity,β Dr. Keenan says. This rheumatologist at Duke also feels the same way. (https://www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis/arthritis-treatment-know-your-options.aspx)
I’m in a lot of pain from head to toe, but at least I haven’t been out in the extreme heat. Who knows when it will end, but it is so hot! It’s times like these that I really miss my recliner. Keeping my feet propped up every day certainly prevented this type of pain.
I had hoped that by this time my bioidentical hormones would be giving me energy, but I feel nothing differently. My anti-depressant may be starting to work. I don’t feel as down, but there isn’t enough difference to matter. This is disappointing, but when I see my doctor in July, he said he would probably need to increase the hormone dosage.

Staying away from home for three weeks is so hard. I don’t have all the tools that help me with pain and stress. After a while I get very stressed and just want to go home. I feel like the last week here is going to be tough. Living in a cramped hotel, having daily tick removals (especially the dog), and eating different food is so hard.
My guys are working so hard to help my oldest child with outdoor projects and the heat is draining them. They continue to work through the pain and heat with great attitudes. This is inspiring! If they can do that, I know I can get through the pain and stress that I feel. God has protected us all so far, with no injuries, heat strokes, or panic attacks.
Being back in the town where I lived over 30 years and raised my children has made me melancholy. I love this place for it’s memories, the natural beauty, and the promise of a possible future back here. Many prayers will be prayed about the future, because I need wisdom.
How much better is it to get wisdom than gold!
and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver! Proverbs 16:16
I hope that you’re handling the excessive heat that’s scorching much of the country. Take care of yourself and do your best to rest as much as your body needs.
@2022, copyright Lisa Ehrman
Disclaimer: I’m not a medical expert. This post contains my experiences and opinions and is not meant to be taken as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please consult your personal physician.
I’ve had the pain you are in too for years now. I finally have got the doctors to listen up and give me what it takes to feel normal again. I know it’s a lot of meds but it is working. I take 8 tramadol a day and 2 sulindac a day. The tylenol is a waste of time in my book. I feel better than I have felt in years and can actually move more again.
I’m glad the doctors finally gave you a real medication. I hope that it continues to work from now on!
I understand my pain is not as bad as yours. I have one more week before I can get shots in my hand and knee.
Have found that for me heat works better then ice/cold. I use ThermaCare heat wrap on my knee. You can apply and pull your pants on does not show. It works great for me for 8 – 10 hrs. I have also found that HOTHANDS super warmer work great at night. I unzip a small pillow slid the hothands in and zip back up. Can lay my hand on or slide it under my knee.
Well, I wouldn’t say that my pain is worse than yours. We can’t really compare pain, but I hope that the shots will help. Thank you for the recommendations. ThermaCare sounds great…8-10 hours is a very good result. I hadn’t heard of HOTHANDS, but I’ll check it out.
I feel for you. The only thing that works for me is Lazarus Naturals Lotion and tincture. They have a fabulous discount program for Vets and the disabled. They have much higher doses at better prices than other companies. I would suggest the full spectrum products. It has worked for me, my mom, and friends who had knee surgery. You can buy online, they are in Portland, OR. only caveat is that the topicals wear off in 4-6 hrs
Oh, thank you for the recommendation! I’ll try it for sure!
I’ve had it since I was a child. For some unknown reason, the T3 i’m taking for my thryoid.. helps me feel better.
I’m so glad that that medicine helps arthritis and your thyroid.