Adhesive capulitis, also known as frozen shoulder syndrome, is something I had never heard of or come across in my research about Lupus. But, as I describe in my entry for today, it’s actually something that Lupus patients suffer with. Who knew? Not me, until now…. **
Body
One word to describe my Lupus body today: Restricted
Which habits and rituals did I practice to soothe my Lupus body?
- Moved and Stretched
- Breathed Fresh Air
- Stayed Hydrated
- Smiled and Laughed
More details about my physical symptoms:
Today is the first day after learning that my awful shoulder pain is being caused by adhesive capulitis, also known as frozen shoulder syndrome. It’s a chronic inflammatory condition in the shoulder joint that causes debilitating stiffness and pain. It’s often seen in people with diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Lupus (of course). I spent the day with my arm in the sling that the doctor provided, and I started the physical therapy that he ordered as well. I already work with a physical therapist on my hips and back, so she just added this order to my chart today. She manipulated it a bit and had me do a few exercises. Unbelievable pain! Oh well, one more restriction–the cane for my back and hips and now a sling for my shoulder. I’m a curious wonder to some people to who naturally ask, “Were you in an accident?”
Mind
One word to describe my Lupus mind today: Uplifted
Which habits and rituals did I practice to strengthen my Lupus mind?
- Focused on the Positive
- Managed Time and Energy
- Managed Stress Response
More details and thoughts about how I’m feeling emotionally today:
Thankfully, my friend Patti and I had breakfast on our calendars this morning. We met bright and early when most people are just getting out of bed. We’ve only known each other for a few years, yet we find each other’s company both therapeutic and comforting. Perhaps it’s because we’ve both live through lots of trauma in our lives. Or, maybe it’s just because we laugh a lot when we’re together. Either way, the timing was perfect as I showed up with my latest story about my life with Lupus.
Spirit
One word to describe my spirit today: Yearning
Which habits and rituals did I practice to nurture my Lupus spirit?
- Meditated, Prayed, Visualized
- Loved Myself
Thoughts about my spiritual connection and spiritual lessons learned today:
At the end of this day, I’m feeling spiritually depleted and yearning for more of a connection. I’m not sure why, but I suppose the shoulder pain and having to wear a sling has something to do with it. I can’t get comfortable enough to deeply meditate or enjoy my sacred space. And, that’s a first for me. I guess it’s just another thing to have to get used to. In the meantime, I’ll just think about how I can love myself a little more now that I have yet another Lupus issue to deal with.
Meals
Today my meals were:
- Breakfast: Fresh scrambled eggs, hash browns, cup of Earl Gray tea
- Lunch: Leftover sesame ginger chicken (homemade), rice
- Dinner: Chicken fajitas (with corn tortillas) at a Mexican restaurant
- Snacks: Gala apple
Thanks
At least one thing that I’m grateful for today:
- Friendship with Patti
**(This post is based on the format of the Lupus Diary that I developed for keeping track of how Lupus affects my body, mind, and spirit, I check-in here once a week to let you know about the more interesting days of my Lupus journey. To learn more about the Lupus Diary, how I developed it, and why I use it, click here.)
