Should I be Suffering In Silence?

blackcyclist

Ive been having pain in my right ankle for the past 8+ years. I had an ankle operation in 2017 & reattachment of my ligament. Surgeon identified early arthritis and some bone damage/degradation. Ever since I've been self medicating to take away the pain and mostly limiting the impact on my ankle.

Working from home helps as I'm able to be less mobile. But when I have to travel Or walk and stand for extended periods, I am In pain. In reality, the pain is constant, I just get used to ignoring it. But at times it flares up and I literally can't walk.

Prescribed medication like Naproxen really helps when the inflammation is really bad. Other times it's paracetamol and ibuprofen. I e even tried CBD oil, which seems to have the best effect for getting rid of the pain and allows me to continue exercising by cycling (zero impact on the ankles). I don't want to keep doing the self medicating approach.

What support is available to me for better pain management and perhaps some physiotherapy?

Do I need to go via my GP or is there anything else I can do to get help?

I'm interested in learning about any and all support that could be available toe, but I'm not sure where to start.

Any pointers or tips will be greatly appreciated. Thank you

annabanana

hi @blackcyclist , I am so sorry to hear about the pain which you are experiencing, that must be difficult. I would definitely recommend seeking help from your GP as they can then refer you to your local physiotherapy team; I suppose you could seek out private physio if you have the funds and do not wish to see your GP. Every person is different, however I would definitely recommend seeking help from your GP as they should be able to identify what help you require as well as which doctor will be able to help with it. Hopefully your symptoms improve, please do keep us updated on your journey!

creAte

@blackcyclist

Should I be suffering in silence? a very philosophical question…

Recently learnt: it starts by a GP if one wishes to investigate into seeking help.

It is wise to ask for help sooner opposed to later as arriving to the stage of having an appointment with a specialist generally means a few months of waiting.

Gentle smile