Osteo & Rheumatoid?

Shellby

Hi Everyone
I have osteoarthritis in both of my knees. The specialist has said I need partial knee replacements but won't put me on the waiting list until I have lost 2 stone.
That aside, I wanted to ask a question for those of you that have osteo and rheumatoid arthritis. It's my understanding that rheumatoid arthritis would usually occur in the smaller bones? Please put me right if I'm wrong. I wonder if I also have rheumatoid because every so often I have awful pain and aching and fatigue what feels like everywhere but definitely in my legs, especially ankles and feet. The osteoarthritis seems to cause pain and stiffness but this new feeling of aching with pain and fatigue hasn't always been there and it rarely feels as though it's specifically in my knees.
I've no idea if that had made any sense, but would be lovely to hear from you if you'd be happy to share your experiences.
Thanks 😊

AlanM

Hi @Shellby

and welcome to the forum. It's good to see you here.

You have osteoarthritis in both knees, have been advised that you need knee replacements and that being added to the waiting list is dependent on some weight loss. You also have concerns that your experience of pain and fatigue may be the result of rheumatoid arthritis but would like to know more about the condition.

There is information on the Versus Arthritis website, which may be helpful to you. On joint replacement and surgery and waiting times: https://www.versusarthritis.org/policy/our-policy-positions/waiting-times-for-surgery/. And on rheumatoid arthritis, this is a good place to begin to answer your questions, https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/.

If you are worried and want to talk to someone directly, our Helpline is also there for you (Tel 0800 5200 520).

And, of course, talking to people on the forum will help you understand your condition and options better.

Good luck with everything and look forward to seeing you here.

Best wishes

Alan