Just saying Hi there

Bambi · 26. Nov 2020, 17:14

I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis 4years ago but believe I’ve had it longer. I had a hip replacement last year and my other hip needs to be replaced in the future. The condition has damaged my spine. I have recently been given ill health retirement as a social worker in children and families I would be at risk and unable to carry out my duties. However I may have some quality time with my family and grandchildren. I cannot believe the sore back I’ve had since my 30s was undoubtedly my earliest arthritic pain. Worse still I can’t cope with opiate or drugs containing codeine. I also found that the condition wore away at my mood and as a result take antidepressants to alleviate and keep me balanced.

Hopine everone is ok with this message and thanks for the support of versus Arthritis

Tom · 26. Nov 2020, 17:31

Welcome @Bambi to the forum. You describe an all too familiar experience - a recent diagnosis of a longer suffered condition and problems managing the associated pain, in your case made more difficult ny an intolerance of the frequently used pain killers.

Here are some links to information you may find helpful:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/in-your-area/in-your-area-search-results/challenging-pain-online/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/exercising-with-arthritis/exercises-to-manage-pain/

What is certain is that you are not alone - have a trawl through the forums, I am sure that you will find others whose experience will help you.

Shaphron · 27. Nov 2020, 18:36

Hi Bambi - nice to meet you! Hope you enjoy your retirement - it's never fun to have something forced on you, but hopefully it works out for you. And at least you have a name for your pain now and maybe you can get some help now. Not easy with restrictions on drugs, but a pain clinic (referred to there by your GP) may well be able to help more with finding the right medication etc for you even with your restriction.

Just saying Hi there

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