Twisted Spine

Twisted-Spine

Your labs look fine.

  • Technical difficulties.

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    I have been undergoing biologic treatment since the onset of my consultations with a rheumatologist, preceding even the confirmation of a formal diagnosis. Commencing with weekly injections of Humira, I transitioned to monthly doses of Cimzia following an inadequacy of response. Recently, I have developed Palmoplantar Pustulosis Psoriasis (PPP) on the palms of my hands and the soles of my feet. It is noteworthy that PPP can arise as a result of biologic treatment, which is remarkable considering their common prescription for psoriasis. Furthermore, the manifestation of psoriasis as a symptom of Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) exacerbates the situation. I am currently awaiting an appointment with a dermatologist to effectively manage this condition, as it has significantly impeded the use of my hands and walking due to the accompanying pain. There may be intermittent gaps in my future posts as I navigate this newfound illness. Despite the deviation in tone from my usual posts, I am deeply passionate about this blog. My primary intention is to utilize my narrative and experiences to assist others. I understand that this particular post differs in tone, but I aim to provide a candid portrayal for those who choose to engage with it. My ultimate objective is to genuinely reassure anyone feeling isolated that they are not alone and potentially offer guidance to those grappling for a diagnosis, as medical marginalization is regrettably prevalent in cases of chronic ailments.

    If you are currently reading this and have encountered Palmoplantar Pustulosis Psoriasis, I kindly request that you share your personal experiences and any remedies that have provided relief. I am currently enduring significant challenges with this condition.

    Wishing you the very best and looking forward to providing you with an update soon.

  • Did you know that AS was once considered a man’s disease?

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    Ah, the mysterious ways of ankylosing spondylitis! It’s like a game of hide and seek with women, making it extra challenging to diagnose. Picture this: women may complain more about their necks, knees, and hips, and throw in some extra fun with psoriasis, uveitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Plus, the progression is like a slow-motion movie in women, and the damage to the spine and hips might be like, “Meh, not that bad” compared to men. It’s almost as if the disease is playing a prank, leading to an underestimation of its impact in women.

    And get this – the whole diagnostic criteria and imaging tests seem to have a bias towards men! Like, come on, people, women can get it too! Then there’s the sneaky non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis – it’s like the ninja of diseases, hiding from X-rays and demanding special treatment with MRI. Can’t make it easy, can it?

    But wait, there’s more! It seems like AS in women is wearing the best disguise, fooling health professionals and the public, causing delays and misdiagnoses. Instead of AS, women might end up with labels like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia. Classic case of mistaken identity, right?

  • (Un)solicited advice for migraines

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    As I was walking the dogs at dawn yesterday, the silence was broken by the sound of two women jogging up behind me.  Even before they got close, I …

    (Un)solicited advice for migraines

  • Wanting to show support and love to your loved one living with Ankylosing Spondylitis? Here is my favorite gift suggestions:

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    • T-shirts – I have a simple philosophy when it comes to clothing: the bigger, the better. That’s why I always buy shirts that are at least two sizes too large for me. They give me the comfort and mobility I need to cope with my chronic back pain caused by Ankylosing Spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects my spine. I also like to wear shirts that say “Ankylosing Spondylitis” on them, because nothing says “funny” like a word that most people can’t pronounce or spell.

    Click Here to find these (and more) on Amazon and help support my blog.
    2.Drink Tumblers– Because it’s important to stay hydrated or you know, keep your iced coffee from melting faster than your hopes and dreams. 3.Heated Weight Blanket– There’s nothing better than a heated blanket and a weighted blanket… the mix together is like a warm hug from a friendly bear on a day when everything hurts.

    These are my three ultimate daily essentials for surviving even the crummiest of days. Comfort is key, especially when everything else seems to be going south. I’ll spare you the agony of choice overload and settle for sharing just my top three picks for now.

    What are your top picks?

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis- What is it?

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    Ah, **Ankylosing spondylitis**, the party crasher of the spine! 🎉 Let’s dive into this exclusive soirée:

    **The Guest List:**

    – Imagine your spine hosting a swanky gala.

    – Ankylosing spondylitis waltzes in uninvited, wearing mismatched socks.

    **Dress Code:**

    – It’s all about **inflammation chic**.

    – Vertebrae put on their red-carpet swelling—very “I woke up like this.”

    **The Dance Moves:**

    – Vertebrae start doing the **Stiff Shuffle**.

    – Picture a robot attempting salsa after a night of bad decisions.

    **Morning Drama:**

    – Every morning, they wake up like grumpy vampires.

    – “Sunlight? Nah. We prefer darkness and existential dread.”

    **The Fusion Tango:**

    – Two vertebrae lock eyes across the room.

    – They whisper, “Let’s fuse, baby!” Cue dramatic tango music.

    **The Hunchback Hustle:**

    – As fusion intensifies, they become the **Hunchback Harmony Duo**.

    – Their motto: “We bend together, we blend together!”

    **Hip Hop Hips (Literally):**

    – Hips join the party, breakdancing like it’s 1999.

    – One hip shouts, “I’m the **Femur Funkmaster**!”

    **Cartilage Cha-Cha (with a Twist):**

    – Cartilage wiggles between ribs, doing the cha-cha.

    – It’s like a delicate salsa—too much fusion, and you’re a ribcage xylophone.

    **Emergency Moves (Code Red!):**

    – Suddenly, the DJ plays “Eye Inflammation Anthem.”

    – Eyes scream, “Abort mission! We’re tearing up!”

    **The Genetic Shuffle:**

    – Remember, it’s all in the genes. HLA-B27 is the pass to this exclusive party.

    – Non-gene holders? They’re at the bar, sipping mocktails.

    **The Grand Finale (Cue Confetti):**

    – Imagine your spine doing the **Macarena**.

    – Vertebrae high-five, shouting, “We’re the backbone of this party!”

    So there you have it: Ankylosing spondylitis—

    the spine’s rebellious rave

    (Note: No actual vertebrae were harmed in this sarcastic celebration. But some might have twerked.)

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  • The history of women and AS

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    Coming Soon

  • My first post….

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    Hey there! So, I’ve made this grand decision to start a blog and become a beacon of light for those feeling a bit lost or watching a loved one struggle through chronic illness and pain. I’m aiming for success and hoping to empower people to speak up when something just doesn’t feel right. Let’s face it, getting sick is no walk in the park, especially when it feels like nobody believes you. And oh boy, grieving your pre-sickness self? It’s like this unwanted guest that keeps crashing the party every time you have to convince someone that you’re actually unwell. It’s a wild ride, but hey, at least we can try to laugh about it together, right?

    A logo for "Twisted Spine", a site focused on spine health and wellness, with a bold and modern design that captures the essence of strength and resilience, while reflecting a professional and trustworthy image.