just been diagnosed

JulieB777

Hi Im new to this site, I have been diagnosed with OA. it all started three years ago when my knees swelled up since then the arthritis has now gone into both hips the base of my spine too, I already suffer with depression and this makes me feel even more hopeless.
I am on ESA at the moment already appealing again (been through it before) I'm scared because this seems to have happened very quickly I have never experienced pain like it !! I take Temgesic as I cant take Ora morph for the pain but nothing seems to help, can anyone advise me as to what I can claim for DLA etc I would appreciate any help.

thanks for reading my post

valval

hi welcome some one will be along soon who can help you but wanted to welcome you and let you know you are not on your own val

stickywicket

Hello. It's nice to meet you. I think you'll find arthritis and depression is a fairly common combiation and no wonder. However, you've come to the right place for support and friendship.

I can't help on the benefits side of things but, as for the pain, have you ever been referred to a Pain Clinic? They've helped a lot of people on here.

Numptydumpty

Hello, and welcome to the forum.
I can't help with the benefits question, but I'm sure someone will be along soon who can.
Take care,
Numpty

dreamdaisy

Hi, I started with an auto-immune arthritis and the joint damage from that has led to OA in both ankles, both knees and now my right hip. I have to use walking aids and they do help to take some of the strain which is beneficial. I claim DLA (I get the higher rate of mobility as I ain't mobile ) but don't know about the other available benefits - your local Citizen's Advice should be able to help on that front. I too have depression and I take anti-depressants to help me cope - I only wanted a short course but my rheumatologist advised me to keep taking a small dose to help with the pain - when you're better mentally you can cope better with the arthritis. DD

frogmorton

Hi Julie

Lovely to meet you and welcome you to our forums.

I am sorry you are sufferring so much. I take the patch version of your meds too l think. buprenorphine??

In your shoes I would consider applying for DLA. Take a look on the direct gov site. It might also been an idea to see CAB for some proper benefit advice. There may be other things we don't know about on here.

Love

Toni xxx

maggsy

Hi Julie,
i am also newish to the forum, but the guys gave me loads of great advice and support. i recently spoke to CAB about claiming DLA as i have OA in both feet knees and hands, i also suffer with a lung condition COPD they have made me an appointment to see them on the 25th of feb to help fill the forms in all they said to me was that i have a case for claiming DLA but as with many of the other guys on the forum it seems very hard to get it, but it's worth trying. keep us informed and hope you feel better soon

Maggsy

frogmorton

maggsy wrote:

Hi Julie,
i am also newish to the forum, but the guys gave me loads of great advice and support. i recently spoke to CAB about claiming DLA as i have OA in both feet knees and hands, i also suffer with a lung condition COPD they have made me an appointment to see them on the 25th of feb to help fill the forms in all they said to me was that i have a case for claiming DLA but as with many of the other guys on the forum it seems very hard to get it, but it's worth trying. keep us informed and hope you feel better soon

Maggsy

Well-done Maggsy

Let us know how it goes.

Love

Toni xxx

maggsy

Thanks Toni will let u know how things go

Maggsy xx

Good luck Julie hope you get the advice you need

Maggsy xx