Knowing our bodies

 I'm about 9 years into this AS journey. Being a veteran ASer I have become very adept at knowing which of my many doctors to call and when.  

I woke up on Sunday morning quite stiff and achy.  When I reached down to give my small dogs their morning treats I experienced a fairly high level of pain and the all too familiar "zing" of nerve pain and muscle spasm.   Having had 8 lumbar surgeries, whenever my back hurts I quickly do a body assessment. Did I sleep in a funny position? Did I overdo my exercise yesterday? Did I drink  or eat inflammatory foods yesterday? Do I have new numbness or muscle weakness? Where am I in my infusion/ med cycle? Is this resolving with a little movement and/ or a hot shower?  Having been down the road of OH GEEZ, I'm in trouble NOW vs take a hot shower or hang on until the next infusion I've become quite adept at knowing who to call and when.

This time my pain resolved with a cup of coffee and a hot shower. I also calmed myself when I looked at the calendar and saw that my infusion ( aka Super Juice) is happening on Thursday! This meant that I am at the ragged edge of my meds.  Mental note to discuss this with my rheumatologist at our next appointment.  

Meds are like bank accounts. They shouldn't be at zero before you get paid again!


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