The Rheumatoid Factor: Ready, Set, Fly!

What does it take to fly with the Trifecta: Lupus, Sjogren's, and Rheumatoid Arthritis? On my recent flight to and from Kauai, I made a mental note to post this info. Maybe it will be helpful to someone else. Here goes:


First up is KT tape for tendons, as I have to lift and carry bags.



Refresh Plus to combat the dry plane air.


An eye patch for when the drops don't hack it.


Lidoderm Patches are great for lower back spasms.


A lacrosse ball is another way to chase spasms away.

An Empi Electrotherapy Device in case things go downhill quickly.


Ankle braces, hopefully on after security or I have to take them off.


A walking stick is super helpful. Mine's collapsible from REI. It fits in the overhead bin.


Naproxyn and backup pain meds, of course.

I think that's it! If I've forgotten a tip, I'll add it in the comments. Otherwise, Aloha and safe travels!

Rheumatoid Factor: From Splints to Shots

So after 2 months of inflamed index finger tendons from rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjogren's, the occupational therapist made me $400 splints for both hands. I was immobilized while I waited for the University of Washington hand surgeon specialist to weigh in. 

Best laugh came from Martha Brockenbrough that I must play a mean game of ping pong. :~)

The specialist determined cortisone shots were in order because I was non-functional. They were a doozy, right into the tendons. Special thanks to Justina Chen for taking notes for me and promising me a bubble tea when we were done. 

Image from http://www.cortisoneshots.net/

Now we wait to see if the flare cycle is broken. The tendons remain swollen, but I'm up to about 65% of my normal activity. Which is a great blessing. The splints are still handy dandy for resting. For now, I am able to write! Onward!

Photo Friday: Sjogren's

Sjogren's by Lorie Ann Grover on Polyvore.com