Hi Sheena, I have a form of arthritis called Ankylosing Spondylitis, which had me on crutches with achilles tendinitis and a knee the size of China from about 6 weeks into my 2nd pregnancy up until 18 weeks when I finally gave in and started taking medication, as well as having cortisone shots into my knee joint. In my first pregnancy, the arthritis actually went into a temporary remission - I never felt better, but not so lucky second time around. If this girl is seeing a rheumatologist, she/he will be able to advise her about safe treatments and medications in pregnancy, and that may be the way for her to go. Exercise and mobility is a brilliant way of keeping arthritis under control (depending of course on the type), but if she is so affected that she is in a wheelchair, she will need to work on getting all that inflammation and swelling down. In such a severe state, I don't know how much benefit ice packs alone will be, although I am only speaking from my personal experience, and I don't have any experience with other natural remedies. I refused medication until I was well past the 12 week mark, but then realised that my body being in such a state of pain and stress was not good for my baby either. I was mentally, physically and emotionally coming undone, and I made a judgement by weighing up the benefits and potential risks of taking the medical treatment. The medication I take to manage my arthritis is brilliant (not sure I am allowed to mention names?). It has the same 'safety' rating in pregnancy and breastfeeding as paracetamol, and after doing a lot of research, and speaking to a counsellor from the Monash Drug Information line (Rodney White - specialises in drugs in pregnant and lactating women) I felt this was a safe and viable way of getting my arthritis under control, and having a healthy pregnancy for the remaining months. I continued this medication throughout the 2 years I breastfed my daughter, and she is just fine. Of course the type of arthritis will dictate the medications that will work, and at the end of the day, this was just my experience - I appreciate it may be very different for others.
Goodness I managed to say a lot about nothing there didn't I! I guess my point is that I really do understand where she is at, and feel that she needs to do some research into the management of her condition, then weigh up the benefits and risks of different treatments based on her personal criteria for the health and safety of herself and her baby. When well managed, many forms of arthritis need not be debilitating, so she should hold on to the positives - taking action to control or manage her condition can in itself be a step towards relieving pain - state of mind is a vital part of getting healthy. Kirsten 1st year BMid Student Melbourne -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
