Osteoarthritis in Wrists and Hands

limpingrider_8

Male 61 years old and at my wits end carnt cope with working and the pain anymore, I feel useless I've got osteoarthritis in my wrists and hands affecting all my hand movements, trying to get a proper diagnosis through my gp but it's taking so long. My wife is disabled herself through fibromyalgia and I care for her when not working, I'm worrying so much about what might happen I'm sure its affecting my mental health. Dont know where to turn or what to do anymore. I I carnt retire till I'm 67 but I dont think I will make retirement, my work is a manual job I need my hands , I'm ok for a little while doing things then my hands just seize up and the pain is awful. I'm sure my employer will just get rid of me soon but how do I survive on benefits that's if I'm entitled to them in the first place. Sorry I'm wittering along when I'm sure there's people far worse off than me, but what do I do, I carnt see a way out

Poppyjane

Hello again @limpingrider_8

Did you see the helpful posts in response to your first message on December 17th?

Now surgeries and offices will be opening after the new year I hope you will feel able to follow some of the kind suggestions from our members. Do let us know if you have any concerns or maybe you would like to talk to someone on our Helpline. (Number below)

Best wishes

Poppyjane