Psoriatic Arthritis

Billy85

Hi there, just a wee update on my story. I have been dealing with Osteoarthritis in my back and hips from 2019. My right hip has become severe very quickly since around May/June this year. My left hip remains moderate. I have Orthopaedic's in two weeks to discuss possible right hip replacement as there is no cartlidge left, its basically bone on bone now. I had an appointment with Rheumatology today to discuss new medication for feet and ankle swelling, had to stop taking Sulfasalazine. While I was there I was newly diagnosed with Psoriatic Arthritis and they are looking to start me on Methotrexate. Thanks for reading 😀

Poppyjane

Hi @Billy85

The Rheumatology consultant has now diagnosed PsA and Methotrexate which will take a while to make a difference - up to 12 weeks. I hope the new meds will make a difference for your swollen feet and ankles, and that all this is improved by the time you have a hip surgery date if that is the route you choose to go down.

There are a number of really helpful discussions about hip replacements pre and post operation. Go up to the small magnifying glass symbol to search for them. It is worth going to your OA consultation with as much information as possible to help with your decision making.

Many of us who have had hip replacements have found exercising pre and post op. really helps keep us mobile as well as more positive. Go to the stretching videos they are good.

Let us know how you get on with your appointment.

Best wishes

Poppyjane ( Moderator)

Billy85

Hi @Poppyjane

Thank you for the best wishes.

I am just back from my OA consultation,we both agreed surgery on the right hip is the way forward. Looking at around 6 months from now (June time maybe).

Still waiting to hear from Rheumatology as to when I can start Methotrexate, hopefully hear back soon. I've left a message on her answer machine.

My right wrist has been sore the last 6 weeks, doctor reckons it's down to PsA😥just another to add to the list.

I'm due back to work tomorrow, despatch worker in a meat factory, fast paced with lots of heavy lifting. Not looking forward to it. Needs must as I don't get paid for being off.

Is there any help out there regarding work as I'm struggling to keep up at the moment?

Kind regards

Billy

Poppyjane

Hi @Billy85

It often is one step forward then pause... At least the OA consultant has agreed that a new hip is the way forward. Hopefully you will hear from the RA department soon and move another step forward It does take a few weeks for the methotrexate to start making a difference.

I attach a couple of links for you to consider from the work aspect of your life.

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pensions

https:/citizensadvicebureau.org.uk

The Helpline may be able to help you if you feel able to talk with someone before you start back to work tomorrow.

Have you spoken to anyone at work about your condition? Could you move to a less physically demanding area at your work?

Keep posting, it is good to share your concerns with the community members. You don't have to feel that you are on your own.

Best wishes

Poppyjane

Billy85

Hi @Poppyjane

I finally got through to RA and they said the letter has been sent to my gp with the results of bloods & chest x-ray.

I've to give the gp a phone tomorrow to find out if and when I've to start methotrexate.

I have also updated my employer on the latest news, as I have done all along. They have been great with me so far.

I do feel like everything is going in the right direction now, one step at a time.

I have had a look at the links you sent and I think they will be helpful.

Thanks again

Billy

jamieA

Hi @Billy85

I was diagnosed with PsA in October 2020. Until I got stabilised in September 2021 my rheumatology department gave me regular steroid injections. These were initially into the joints most affected and then as time progressed and more joints were affected a general injection into my rear end which helped the multiple joints. The injections normally gave 4-6 weeks respite. It might be worth asking your GP or rheumatologist if this is available to you meantime.

I hope you get stabilised soon.