Learning to live with arthritis

Belg2001

I’m 53 and was diagnosed with arthritis two years ago. I still can’t believe how my life has changed with constant pain and the inability to do so many things that I used to enjoy. The condition affects my joints, mainly the knees and I’m on the waiting list to see an NHS orthopaedic doctor but have no idea when this will be. Would appreciate any advice on improving my quality of life.

Ellen

Hello @Belg2001 Welcome to the Online Community.

It sounds as though your Arthritis has had a big impact on what you are able to do. This subject came up quite recently:

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/comment/693791#Comment_693791

Many of our members find it tough missing activities they used to enjoy, but others find new activities/hobbies to replace those lost.

I see from you post that you are waiting to see an orthopaedic surgeon I presume to look at your knees with a view to surgery. This article might give you some useful information:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/treatments/surgery/knee-replacement-surgery/

including what you can do to be ready for surgery if you are offered it.

Finally I'd like to link this information to manage pain while you are waiting:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/news/2021/april/ways-to-manage-your-pain-while-waiting-for-surgery/

Best wishes

Ellen.