extreme pain when I wake up.

by Andrea
(Tulsa, OK)

For the last month every day when I wake up the left side of my body (my elbow, shoulder, knee, and hip) is extremely sore, to the point that it is difficult for me to stand up. It used to start going away as I moved around more, but for the last week it hasn't gone away. It is to the point that it has brought me to tears. I have been having trouble with my lower back also, but I've been seeing a doctor for my back. I asked him about thus and his answer was to give me pain medications, which have helped some, but he didn't give an answer to why this is happening.

My medical history is pretty short. I've never had any broken bones, or had any surgeries. I've never had any extreme illnesses, nothing more than the flu. The only major medical problem I've had is the problem I have with my back now. Other than that I've been very lucky and have never had anything major happen to me.


The only drugs they have me taking are flexeril 10MG, Naproxen 500MG, and Ultram 50MG.

I do smoke about a pack a day. I drink maybe once a month, not often and usually only one drink.

I am adopted, so I don't have access to my family history.

I haven't tried any treatments. The only thing I have tried is putting a heating pad on the sore areas, and I've tried stretching when I wake up.

Joint Pains

There are so many reasons for joint pains ranging from osteoarthritis through to rheumatoid arthritis. I can’t answer your question, apart from advising that you are seen and assessed by a rheumatologist who specialises in joint problems. You will need tests such as x-rays and blood tests as well as a physical examination to determine a cause for this. Good luck!