Physiotherapy

[Guest guest]

Hi,

My daughter went into a flare, not that she was exactly arthritis free,

last fall when she outgrew her methotrexate dose. Both her elbows were

affected this time and they seemed frozen at 45 degree angles. They

increased her meth dose from 10 mg to 12.5 mg. weighs 40 lbs and

her meth is injected.

That had some affect, about 15 degrees in the arms. So at least she

wasn't craddling the arms, but physiotherapy seemed to be hurting.

Actually, it was pretty close to impossible to do. Most sessions with

me and her wound up with her crying and me eventually forcing a few, too

short, excercises.

About 6 weeks ago we agreed to increasing the meth dose to 15 mg, which

seems very high. Now physiotherapy is progressing better than it ever

has. I can actually see noticable improvement. complains but she

doesn't seem as upset and she isn't fighting me. I think we can get her

arms straighted out before her next appointment May 9.

There is so much difference, I'm going to hesitate about doing physio

when her joints are swollen, next time. I don't think it is worth it

for the little bit of gain or prevention that is acheived. Poor kid,

she was probably feeling bad enough already.

Do others have some thoughts on physiotherapy. I notice it is hardly

ever mentioned, but it must be a large element of everyones life.

Joanna