Newly diagnosed with osteoarthritis

PaulaJ

Hi, I have recently been diagnosed with moderate to severe osteoarthritis in my right hand. I am obviously really upset about this as I am only 54 and I still work. I have two jobs and they both involve primarily computer and mouse work. I really don't know what to do? My GP has just prescribed painkillers. I am looking at getting a new mouse for my main job and looking at leaving my casual evening job (which I really don't want to do 😥) to help rest my hands in the evening.

Does anyone have any advice?

Thank you so much.

Paula xx

SoniaR

Hi Paula, hope you don’t mind me asking but was your osteo diagnosed by an Orthopeadic doctor or your GP.? I’m only asking as I was diagnosed with osteo in my right hand by a physiotherapist. However last Xmas it got worse, my hand was so painful at night with burning pain. I decided to see a Orthopaedic consultant privately (£250) and he said I had classic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome! Had it repaired and 6 months later all my pain has gone. Sometimes osteo is blamed incorrectly for hand pain and you could get a 2nd opinion?

Anna

Hi @PaulaJ , just wondering what sort of mouse you are using? I have RA which affects my hands and was starting g to really struggle using the usual mouse. I changed to a vertical ergonomic mouse and it’s brilliant for me - no more pain when on the pc.

PaulaJ

Hi @SoniaR, I had an x ray of my hand last week and my GP then messaged me telling me that the x ray showed signs of OA. I checked the radiology report on my NHS app and it said moderate to severe osteoarthritis. I have osteoarthritis in my thumbs which I've had for years and now live with but its now gone to my fingers x

PaulaJ

Hi @Anna I have the standard mouse that comes with the computer. I was looking at the vertical mice but there are so many to chose from! I contacted AbilityNet and they are going to send me some suggestions too. There is just so much choice out there. I'm so glad the vertical mouse worked for you, thats very hopeful x