osteoarthritis

Mikant

Hi , My name is Michael and I have OA in both shoulders ,my spine and both knees. This last winter it has been particularly painful. I find that exercise helps and doing gardening helps both mentally and physically.

I am on a waiting list for an appointment with a pain management clinic but the way things are this probably wont be anytime soon.

Anna

Hello @Mikant and welcome to the online community,

Youve got osteoarthritis in the shoulders, spine and knees and this winter has been particularly hard for you. It sounds you are doing really well to continue to exercise and doing gardening. As you say, both these activities are so good for you physically and mentally. Well done to you for continuing despite the pain. Many of our members will sympathise with ou and may be able to give you tips on managing your pain while you wait for the pain clinic appointment to come through.

The Versus Arthritis website has a wealth of information about osteoarthritis. You might be interested to take a look at some of the pages below. As well as giving information about your condition, there are useful sections on managing pain and self help.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-spine/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-oa-of-the-elbow-and-shoulder/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/

Best wishes, and do let us know how you’re getting on.

Anna ( Mod)

Lilymary

Hi @Mikant , you might find some of the tips in this link helpful too while you await your appointment for the pain clinic. I’m like you, gardening keeps me moving and keeps me sane. Last winter was grim in every possible respect. We should all congratulate ourselves for getting through it even vaguely in one piece.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

there are also some good exercise classes on this site (Let’s move with Leon, and a new Tai Chi class) that you may find helpful.