AboutAmelia Yaussy Expertise I can answer questions about systemic scleroderma and live and internet resources to help you cope with this disease. I have personal experince with scleroderma, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and Sjogren's Syndrome.
Experience I am a systemic scleroderma patient (12 years) and have been active in support online for nearly the same amount of time. I proposed the Usenet newsgroup alt.support.scleroderma and own the website ihavescleroderma.com.
Organizations I am a board member and volunteer for the Scleroderma Foundation, Ohio Chapter.
Publications Arthritis Today, Sept 1997, "A guide to the internet"
Education/Credentials International Webmasters Association, Web Technologies Certification
Awards and Honors Volunteer of the Year, Scleroderma Foundation, 2004; Advocacy Appreciation Award, Scleroderma Foundation, 2005
Expert: Amelia Yaussy Date: 7/15/2006 Subject: tendon and joint pain
Question I am an avid runner and boxer. I run 3-7 miles a day, and go to the gym and punch for about an hour a day. About 4 months ago I switched from regular coffee with about 100 mgs of caffeine to starbucks, which they say has about 300-400 mgs. Since that time I have developed tendonitis in both the knee and achillies. In addition I am having joint cracking throughout my body. I have switched back to the not as strong coffee, but have not gotten better. Could the high intake of caffeine be creating a defeciency of some kind, or an auto immune disease?
Answer As a former avid runner myself, I know how important your training is and how annoying it can be to interrupt it. However, also from past experience, I would see a doc soon to explore these symptoms, especially a doc who is sport/running savvy and understands your level of exercise. S/he can put your concerns to rest and advise you on the best way to proceed.
