I believe I've had MS for more than 30 years. I've been dx'd for six. I have always had a lot of joint problems which I believe are related to my ms. Several years back I thought I had carpal tunnel. A couple years ago I had problems with my knees. Last year it was an elbow and shoulder. This year it's my hands, again. Third or fourth episode of this kind of pain.

The pain and stiffness is worse with each "attack" and can last months. I haven't been able to convince my neuro that these are flares. She doesn't seem to think it's related to the ms at all, since my MRIs don't show potential for hand trouble.

I was wondering, do you think it sounds like a flare if a pain and problem persists in excess of 6 weeks, then goes away for weeks or months, or years only to return, worse than before? I think steroids would help, but how do I get my dr to agree?

Are these "secondary" symptoms (as I have been thinking of them) that will finally cripple me? Do I have SPMS now? I'll be scheduling an MRI in the next couple weeks. Maybe it will show something. But I doubt it.

Any suggestions appreciated.