Hi to everyone.

I have had rheumatoid arthritis and small fiber peripheral neuropathy for almost 5 years now and had been on disability for almost 4 years. My RA is in a medicated remission for a year and my neuropathy pain is finally basically under control with 4500 mg/day of gabapentin, 175mcg/every 2 days with the fentanyl patch and amitriptyline 50 mg each night. I also have been taking many supplements for about a year.

I talked my neuro into referring me for physical therapy as I need to get back to work as soon as I can. Cannot afford to live on SSD and cannot stand to be home alone since my husband died 8 months ago. I have had to use a cane to walk for the last 3 years as my left leg had become very weak.

I started using the treadmill in my apartment gym at only a 2.0 level for the last 2 weeks and I started physical therapy this past week. The Sunday before my first pt visit, I went out with some friends and before the end of the night had swelling in both feet and ankles. This is a new symptom for me. My therapist noticed all the swelling in my first appointment on Monday and suggested an exercise I could do to help. He didn't seem too concerned. I told my therapist about my using the treadmill and he made it my homework to continue to do so.

The only medication changes I have had were both last week. My neuro put me on 20mg/day of prozac for depression and my internist increased my levoxyl from 150 to 175mcg when my thyroid test came back 7.48.

I was wondering if the medication changes or the exercise could have led to the sudden swelling. I have had it all week now. I would appreciate all input.

Thanks. Cat