At the moment, I am in the same predicament. Lots of pain, loss of sleep. The pain makes sleeping impossible, and the loss of sleep makes the pain greater. It’s a vicious cycle.

All I can suggest is that your mother speak with her rheumatologist and/or family practitioner and tell them everything that is going on. They may be able to prescribe a sleep aid along with the pain meds.

Vitamins and supplements? I don’t know of anything that eliminates pain, although I *do* notice some lessening of pain when I eat fresh or frozen pineapple, or tart cherries. The bromelian in pineapple is an anti-inflammatory, and can be obtained as an OTC supplement. Ditto the cherry supplements. Both of these seem to be perfectly safe.

Some people swear by melatonin as a sleep aid, but I’ve heard also that it shouldn’t be taken with certain meds and for lengthy periods of time, so I hesitate to recommend this. Your mom should probably speak with her doctor about this. Perhaps a glass of warm milk?

Deep breathing, relaxation, prayer, meditation, white noise (a fan in the background) and sounds of nature (cd’s of waves crashing and waterfalls) can also contribute to a relaxed state and a restful sleep environment. It’s important that your mom be able to relax, as pain causes stress and stress increases pain … I know, it’s so hard, and my heart aches for her.

If your mom is able, a good long soak in a hot bath would do wonders, but 9 years into her disease this may no longer be a possibility. I know I can’t sink into a tub, and oh, how I wish.

Maybe your mother would appreciate a gentle massage from her very caring daughter. That or a hug would do wonders.

Hope I was able to help in some small way, and only the best to both of you.
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