Struggling with pain

Yvonne68

I have been diognosed with rumatoid artharitas of the knee,following MRI scan 3 weeks ago..I am taking anti-inflammatory tablets & pain killers.But I am struggling &And find the pain UNBARABLE.I am waiting for written phisiotherapy instructions from NHS.I done recomended exersises on hear,but seams to make pain worse.I feel so depressed, and spend most of my time sleeping.I have always been house PROUD,but everything is in a mess,please help me.I am 68 years old.

chrisb

Hi @Yvonne68 and welcome to the Versus Arthritis forum.

So you’ve recently been diagnosed with RA of the knee, you’re taking some anti-inflammatory tablets but the pain is still severe.

To add to the above you’ve been trying to do some exercises but this appears to make things worse. The NHS physio instructions you’re waiting for may or may not help.

The combination of the above is understandably making you feel depressed.

Here is a link that you may find useful relating to knee pain management https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/knee-pain/

Given your situation I suggest that you call our free helpline as they may be able to help with some of the challenges you’re facing:

Helpline on 0800 5200 520, or email helpline@versusarthritis.org (Mon - Fri 9:00am – 8:00pm).

I hope that other forum members will be able to share their experiences and offer you some tips and advice.

Best Wishes

ChrisB (Moderator)

helpline_team

Hi Yvonne68,

Thanks for posting on the helpline forum.

I am sorry to hear that you are struggling with the pain affected by your condition, it is understandable that the continuous pain will be making you feel depressed. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a condition that affects a person’s immune system, and where the body’s natural defence system gets confused and starts to attack your bodies healthy tissues. This can cause joint pain, swelling and stiffness especially first thing in the morning, other symptoms can be tiredness and lack of energy.

There is several treatment for RA, which is like you are already taking, painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, if you find that theses medications are not working for you, than it may be worth asking you doctor for a referral to see a Rheumatologist consultant, who are doctors that specialises in treating this condition.

It is great that you are doing the recommended exercises, it can be difficult when you are in a lot of pain, but keeping active can improve your symptoms, including the pain, and can help with joint stiffness. Swimming and walking are also other ways of keeping active.

I agree with chrisB it will be helpful to call our helpline being as you have only recently been diagnosed with the condition.

Here is a link to more information about Rheumatoid arthritis that I hope will help in the future. https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/

Best wishes

Chris

Helpline Advisor