Traveling Joint Pain

[schugi]

I'm 37 -female.  I first started with jaw joint pain on left side for 5 weeks-diagnosed with tmj. Treated with steroids.  Pain left after 8 days.  Two weeks later, started with left hip pain.  Went on for four weeks.  Then I couldn't move left hand for 2 days.  then went into thumb and couldn't pick up or do anything 2 days.  Then right hip for 2 days - got bad enough could not go up stairs.  At this point, i started realizing something's wrong.  Then moved to left knee and could not go up stairs. then moved to right shoulder blade.  Then moved to right hip in front.  Now in left shoulder and cannot raise my arm.  Very painful.  When it leaves the joint, the joint is then totally fine.  I went to doctor on Monday.  Negative results on lymes, 5th disease and various rehumatoid things.  The only thing that showed was a left of C-Reactive Protein with a level of 23 (I understand normal is below 4.9).  Celebrex and ibuprofin don't even touch the pain.  Dr. prescribed 40 mg of prednisone a day for 5 days and need to see Rhumatologist but can't be seen until July 21.  I don't want to wait - but I guess I have no choice. Wondering if you can help or point me in the right direction?

[txsilver]

I am sure it is scary to have the pain moving around in your body like that.  Never knowing what will hurt or how bad it will effect you has got to have you discombobulated.  Have you had any infections in the last 6 months?  Any history of autoimmune conditions in your family?  Do you have any other symptoms that seem unrelated such as problems with your eyes or digestion or any other seemingly unrelated thing?  How long has this been going on?  Is the prednisone helping?  Don't be too disheartened that your only elevated test result was the CRP.  That is a measure of inflammation.  Blood work provides clues and indicators but cannot diagnose an ailment all by themselves.  Believe it or not, a 7/21 rheumy appt is actually pretty quick.  I know it does not feel like it when you are in pain and scared/worried, but it will be here soon.  Hang in there and fill us in on some more details.  You might also read the post at the top of this forum regarding first rheumy appts as it may help you get ready for and maximize results from your upcoming appt.  Looking forward to hearing back from you....