I take weekly injections of Enbrel.  Since I had to stop taking the injections for a period of time pre and post op I was really suffering and now I started taking it this week  again after 7 weeks and in 2 days I was feeling less pain. It has potential side effects(not due to WLS) but I can't live without it.

I did another type of trigger point injections with the new doctor. It didn't work. She said I actually have degenerative disk disease and arthritus ontop of that. She's asked that I swim at least 2-3 times a week as long as the pool is open. I am going in for nerve blocks in August. I'm going on vacation July 18-29th so we'll not be home anyways. So I'll be excited to come back and get this figured out. They did say they think it might be due to being more active now. Thanks forthe input

Hi Jack, Sorry to hear about the gout. I was on prednisone for as long as my doctor dared to let me take it, but now he has me on Allopurinol 300 mg. My uric acid is still elevated but the Allopurinol is helping to lower it and the pain is still there but subdued. I also monitor my protein intake and try to keep it at 60 or less grams/day. Congrats on your weight loss. You inspire me. My surgery is scheduled for July 10 and, of course, I am excited. In Indiana, we have to wait 6 months before having surgery and I took advantage of that time to try to get my head together as much as possible. It's hard to undo 50 plus years of eating habits, but I am taking baby steps. Progress is being made. I'll add you to my friends list so we can stay in touch. I was born in east TN, but lived 8 years in Nashville (1980 to '88). Was back there a few years ago and surprised at how much it had changed. I worked at HCA Park View Medical Center which is now part of Centennial. I loved Nashville and still have friends there. Pat

Hi there.. just wanted to write with an update... well it seems that I guess this concotion that I am on is probably not working anymore because I am in alot of pain.. I have an appt tomorrow to see what other alternatives I have for meds... and since I am TTC i would like to see what he will put me on... I need relief soon! This is depressing.... Irene

I have taken Ultram but only for short bursts as my pcp says it is addictive after 5-10 days.  I take celebrex regularly and will add Ultram when things just flare up.  I have an strange type of arthritis found in males over 85 and post menopasual women of scandinvian decent so I am not sure about the meds for other types.  Good luck.  PS  I love Ultram and wish I could take it all of the time.