OA treatments

[Tracey1788]

Apart from a tens machine, Capsaicin cream, exercise is there any real treatment for this condition.I cannot tolerate Opates or NSAIDS. I have OA in my hip, both knees, an enchondroma and tear in my right hip socket. Ive been advised to keep as active as possible because hip replacements have limited life. I'm currently 55, waddling along like a penguin, in pain most of the time especially at night. Any advice?

[Arthritis Care]

Hi Tracey, I’m sorry to read that osteoarthritis (OA) is making life so tough. Exercise can help (preferably with some initial guidance from a physiotherapist) as can medicines but I understand that the situation is complicated if you cannot take opiates or NSAIDS.
I wonder if your GP has ever discussed the possibility of referring you to a Pain Clinic or Pain Management programme? These are services that help people with long-term pain that cannot be managed well enough by prescription medicines and physical therapies. They are usually staffed by a team of different health professionals working under a Pain consultant: http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Pain/Pages/Longtermpain.aspx.
I hope this information is useful. If it would ever help to talk things over, you are very welcome to call the Arthritis Care Helplines on 0808 800 4050.
Best wishes,
Rachael, Helplines Worker

[Dr Sandeep Bawa]

Tracy,

have you tried joint injections? These may help and maybe worth discussing with your Rheumatologist regarding the suitability of such a treatment for you - however this is not a cure

hope this helps

sandeep

[wendygreen]

Hi Tracey,

Apart from the treatments you're already using, it's very important to watch your weight, as being overweight is a major factor in the development of OA - especially in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, as every excess pound exerts about 4 pounds more pressure on the knees and extra pressure on the hips as well. Also, fat releases chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.

Also, when you mention exercise I wonder what type of exercise and how much you take? It's important to listen to your body and not to overdo things, as this can exacerbate your symptoms. Please see my other post for more information on the best types of exercise for OA
https://www.talkhealthpartnership.com/f ... 696#p32696

This post also suggests supplements that some OA sufferers find helpful and may be worth trying, seeing as you can't tolerate opiates or NSAIDs.

I hope you find some relief from your pain.

Wendy

[Lee Murphy]

Hello Tracey,
Have you seen a physiotherapist? Often, a physio specialising in lower limb problems is a good first port of call for helping you to manage your knee pain.
Hope this helps,
Lee Murphy

[Nicola Footman]

Hi there

Really sorry to hear you are struggling so much. Physiotherapy including exercise can help in cases of mild-moderate arthritis. Focussing on particular muscle groups can help support the affected joints although I appreciate if the arthritis is very severe and painkillers/NSAID's aren't an option for you then exercise alone can be difficult.

Have you ever considered acupuncture? That can work well alongside strengthening programmes. It also might be worth discussing options with an Orthopaedic surgeon as there may be other options before heading straight for surgery. For example, injections and then trying exercises when you are given a 'window of pain relief' to support the affected joints may be an option.

Take care and hope you find this useful.
Nicola