Arthritis in my Knee and knee cap advise needed

kittymedaughter
kittymedaughter Member Posts: 81
edited 9. May 2012, 10:50 in Living with Arthritis archive
My on going saga since i torn my mensius in September, I had a knee arthroscopy 6 weeks ago and just got back from seeing the consultant. He said I have arthritis in my knee cap and in my knee, there is nothing he wants to do surgically at the moment because it will not stop the pain...I am to have physio for a long time and to try lose weight...I am having the same symptoms in my other knee so it is likely i have the same arthritis in both knees.

I also suffer from fibromyaliga so my mobility is quite poor and walking hurts not only in my knees but hips and lower back..Is there any advise that you can give me, do you recommend a knee brace? I cannot walk much distance without the pain stopping me because my muscles go into spasm..going shopping and getting out and about is becoming worse and I would hate to end up not doing things i used to do...I am 47 and i am dreading what my future is going to be...the consultant said it will get worse but he cannot tell me how quickly it will be?

Comments

  • stickywicket
    stickywicket Member Posts: 27,764
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    There are exercises which will help (see Publications & Resources at top of page) as they keep the muscles strong and strong muscles protect the joint.

    I've not had muscle spasms (Mine used to just lock up) so I don't know if a knee support would help though they have helped me from time to time. If you go down that route remember to only wear it when absolutely necessary as they make muscles take things easy and that won't help long term.
    If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you.
    Steven Wright
  • SteveBurns
    SteveBurns Member Posts: 177
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    Contact the OT and get her/him out to your home. They are sometimes very good at providing equipment to assist around the house, pecking stool, stair banister, grab handle and so on.

    As for a knee brace I have two but they are so uncomfortable that I never wear them.

    I have shoe inserts that help get my feet straight but only one pair.

    My OA sounds similar to yours, I hope to get on the list for surgery next week, I am 62. I get muscle spasms, (cramp) at night/early morning and also the calfs get "twitchy" (restless legs?).

    Perhaps another ten years may see you on the list as well.

    You could qualify for DLA?

    Good luck.
  • RosieGlow
    RosieGlow Member Posts: 175
    edited 30. Nov -1, 00:00
    I think everyone has given you the best advice for now, but I have to say that I find the comment from your Consultant very strange. That surgery would not cure the pain. I tried everything
    painkillers, exercise, supplements, Tens, knee supports, as well as many other "miracle cures", all with no relief. I then had a TKR five years ago, and became totally painfree relatively quickly. I would question his decision, if it were me. I hope you find something that helps, in the meantime.......Rosie.

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