I hurt

Yesterday i recieved some ear plugs, hopefully that will aid my sleep, Bobs snoring is just too much and the lack of sleep is getting me down, i know he can't help it but that doesn't make things easier.

Apart from the exhaustion this is causing. my knees are causing me chronic pain and discomfort.

On top of that situation, i have severe numbness and tingling in my right hand, it is there all the time but worst overnight, i have done research which suggests carpal tunnel syndrom.

Tingly Finger Symptoms can indicate:

• Arteriosclerosis
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Poor Circulation
• Alcoholism
• Diabetes
• Hypoparathyroidism
• Angina
• Heart Disease
• Lyme disease
• Stroke
• Syphilis

I am so frightened my quality of life is zilch,  i am terrified that i will no longer be able to work, then how will we cope financially as well as my zero quality of life, and i might have to give up my cross stitch, it terrifies me, my life is about ended as far as i can ascertain.

A wee bit too much

Well tonight i went to the club and Andrew Smith Bless him decided i needed 7 pints to make up for the weeks i missed at the club, i ended up with thanks to Andy with 2 pints lager and lime and one blue vodka drink, i usually have 2 halves of lager and lime, so i do feel a wee bit woozy and unsteady :)

I also embarrassed myself by dancing to chiwawa (apparently).

SIX STEPS TO BEAT ARTHRITIS

Published in the Daily Express Tuesday September 25,2012

Hannah Ebelthite and Caitlin Reid

---

SUCH is its prevalence, particularly among the elderly, that you'd be forgiven for thinking arthritis is something that creeps up on you over the years along with grey hairs and middle-age spread. Fortunately there are many ways to reduce your risk and to minimise its effects if you become a sufferer.

Arthritis is not a single disease but an umbrella term for a group of conditions that cause pain and inflammation in and around the joints. It affects people of all ages including children and there are many types with a range of symptoms. The most common are pain, tenderness and stiffness around the joints, reduced movement and function, inflammation, redness and warmth and muscle weakness.

By far the most common form is osteoarthritis which is estimated to affect 8.5million people in the UK. While usually detected in those over the age of 50 it can start at a younger age following over-exertion, injury or as a result of another joint problem.

The cartilage protecting the bones around a joint becomes thin leaving the ends of the bone exposed. This makes movement painful as the bones rub together. Osteoarthritis is most often found in the joints of the hands, knees, hips and spine.

The second most common form is rheumatoid arthritis which is more severe but less prevalent, affecting around 400,000 people. It is most likely to arise between the ages of 40 and 50 and is three times more common in women than men.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the lining of the joints causing inflammation and pain. Movement may be reduced and bones and cartilage broken down.

Other forms of arthritis include ankylosing spondylitis, gout and lupus. While there is no cure for arthritis there are various treatments that can successfully slow down its effects and minimise joint damage. Plus there are some adjustments you can make to your diet and lifestyle to stay mobile and pain free.

1 WORK WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM

There isn't just one way to manage arthritis and you need to devise a treatment plan that best suits you.

"You'll need to work with your GP and monitor your symptoms to develop the most effective treatment plan," says Dr Dawn Harper, GP and expert on Channel 4's Embarrassing Bodies. The plan should incorporate all aspects of your wellbeing and may involve any of a long list of healthcare professionals: rheumatologists, orthopaedic surgeons, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, orthotists, podiatrists, dietitians, nurse specialists, psychologists and chiropractors.

Medication for osteoarthritis can include painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids.

In severe cases surgery may be recommended. Rheumatoid arthritis patients may be given painkillers and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs.

"Don't suffer in silence," says Dawn. "See your healthcare team regularly to make sure any medication and treatment you're receiving is the right type and dosage for whatever symptoms you have at the time."

2 MANAGE YOUR WEIGHT

Many people with arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, are overweight while others may gain weight as a result of their restricted mobility. Being overweight puts extra strain on already burdened joints, especially the ankles, knees, hips, feet and spine.

"Maintaining a healthy weight can help relieve the tension in your joints, reduce pain and maintain or improve mobility," says Dawn. "If you're overweight slimming can help slow the progression of arthritis. Talk to your GP about a diet plan."

3 EXERCISE

According to the charity Arthritis Research UK everyone can benefit from some form of exercise even those with arthritis.

"Arthritic people who exercise have higher levels of fitness, better muscle strength, a greater ability to do daily tasks and improved mood and emotional wellbeing," says Dawn.

Exercise also helps to maintain a healthy heart and blood vessels and some specific exercises may help to improve bone strength.

Aim for a mix of strength training, stretching and aerobic exercise.

4 EAT TO EASE SYMPTOMS

In addition to following a wellbalanced diet for overall wellbeing and to maintain a healthy weight Arthritis Research UK says it is worth having a good intake of the following nutrients:

omega-3 fats

Inflammatory types of arthritis such as rheumatoid may be helped by omega-3 essential fatty acids EPA and DHA found in oil-rich fish.

Experts recommend two portions a week but you may want to take a supplement containing 3g each of EPA and DHA especially if you're vegetarian (omega-3 oils are found in ground flaxseeds and their oil, rapeseed oil and walnuts, although they are less easily absorbed by the body).

Promising research at the University of Bristol has for the first time linked omega-3 intake to the slowing or prevention of osteoarthritis too.

Early signs of the condition such as degradation of collagen in the cartilage reduced when omega-3 fats were consumed.

Glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin

These supplements are commonly taken for arthritis. Both are found in the body. Glucosamine is one of the building blocks for cartilage while chondroitin is a substance that helps keep cartilage spongy and healthy by drawing in water.

Latest research suggests they are not particularly effective at relieving pain although Arthritis Research UK argues taking supplements may still be worthwhile for some osteoarthritis sufferers to help nourish the cartilage (ask your doctor before taking supplements).

Balance your diet

The support charity Arthritis Care suggests these foods may also help symptoms:

Nuts contain omega-3 fats which may ease stiffness and reduce inflammation. Pecans, walnuts and hazelnuts are especially high in antioxidants and Brazils are loaded with selenium which may help limit the damage that occurs in arthritis.

Oil-rich fish. The omega-3 fats they contain may help fight inflammation, pain in the joints and stiffness.

Dairy products are high in calcium, essential for healthy bones. Choose low-fat varieties as they contain just as much or a little more calcium.

Whole grains contain magnesium for healthy bones.

Berries are full of antioxidants that may help to reduce inflammation. ? Cherries may play a role in reducing inflammation and pain.

Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which may protect against inflammatory arthritis.

No appetite? It's common to lose it as a result of pain or through depression. If this is the case it may help to eat smaller, frequent meals and always avoid fasting or crash diets.

Drugs used to control rheumatoid arthritis may have nutritional side effects or increase the risk of diet deficiencies.

If you are concerned ask to be referred to a registered dietitian to ensure your nutritional needs are met.

Vegetables

Scientists at the University of East Anglia found a compound in broccoli called sulforaphane which may block the enzymes that cause joint destruction in osteoarthritis. Another study found women with the highest intake of vegetables of the allium family (garlic, onions and leeks) have the lowest levels of hip osteoarthritis.

5 CONSIDER COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

There are many options that may lower the physical and emotional toll of arthritis although it's a matter of trial and error and finding a therapy you feel is worthwhile and affordable.

Some approaches thought to offer relief include the Alexander technique, acupuncture, aromatherapy, wearing a copper bracelet and homeopathy.

Other methods include magnet therapy, relaxation, meditation and hypnosis, manipulative therapies such as chiropractic or osteopathy, wax bath therapy and herbal medicine.

"Tell your doctor about any therapies you want to try but continue to take your prescribed medication," says Dawn.

"Also tell the complementary practitioner about your condition before receiving any treatment."

There is increasing evidence that a Mediterraneanstyle diet including plenty of fish, beans, grains, fruit and vegetables and small amounts of red meat may help with arthritis.

6 TRY NEW WAYS TO MANAGE PAIN

Even when you do all of the above there may still be times when you experience arthritic pain. Experiment with techniques to manage it: apply an ice pack, take a warm bath, meditate, try deep-breathing exercises or listen to music.

A new Australian study has found psychotherapy may be an effective intervention for rheumatoid arthritis.

Patients given cognitive therapy showed greater improvements in inflammation and joint tenderness than a control group. Arthritis Research UK believes this shows the importance of psychological and emotional support for patients.

If you feel you'd benefit from counselling speak to your GP about a referral or contact the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (bacp.co.uk).

Talking to other people who share your symptoms and experiences may also help. Below is a list of organisations with forums and phone services that can put you in contact with others.

WHERE TO GO FOR HELP ?

• Visit Arthritis Care

• Visit Arthritis Research UK

• Visit National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society or call 0800 298 7650

I went Doctors............................

Bob made me an appointment to see the Doctor, i saw Dr Lake and he was very nice, i cannot fault him.

However, his comments were as predicted, weight problem, prescribed co-codamol, and is organising an Xray on both knees and left hip.  He said there is signs of arthritis in both knees but none in hip so it could be referred pain.

My prescription medication is Kapake

Kapake (co-codamol)

Main use	Active ingredient	Manufacturer
Severe pain	Paracetamol 500mg, codeine phosphate 30mg (co-codamol)	Galen

How does it work?

Kapake tablets and capsules contain two active ingredients, paracetamol and codeine phosphate. This combination of medicines is often referred to as co-codamol. (NB. Co-codamol is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.)
Paracetamol is a simple painkilling medicine used to relieve mild to moderate pain. Despite its widespread use for over 100 years, we still don't fully understand how paracetamol works to relieve pain. However, it is now thought that it works by reducing the production of prostaglandins in the brain and spinal cord.
The body produces prostaglandins in response to injury and certain diseases. One of the effects of prostaglandins is to sensitise nerve endings, causing pain (presumably to prevent us from causing further harm to the area). As paracetamol reduces the production of these nerve sensitising prostaglandins it is thought it may increase our pain threshold, so that although the cause of the pain remains, we can feel it less.
Codeine is a stronger painkiller known as an opioid. Opioid painkillers work by mimicking the action of naturally occurring pain-reducing chemicals called endorphins. Endorphins are found in the brain and spinal cord and reduce pain by combining with opioid receptors.
Codeine mimicks the action of natural endorphins by combining with the opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord. This blocks the transmission of pain signals sent by the nerves to the brain. Therefore, even though the cause of the pain may remain, less pain is actually felt.
Kapake tablets and capsules contain 30mg of codeine, which in combination with the paracetamol, is effective at relieving severe pain.

What is it used for?

• Severe pain.

Warning!

• This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.
• Do not take this medicine with any other products that contain paracetamol. Many over-the-counter painkillers and cold and flu remedies contain paracetamol. It is important to check the ingredients of any medicines you buy without a prescription before taking them in combination with this medicine. Seek further advice from your pharmacist.
• An overdose of paracetamol is dangerous and capable of causing serious damage to the liver and kidneys. You should never exceed the dose stated in the information leaflet supplied with this medicine. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of an overdose with this medicine, even if you feel well, because of the risk of delayed, serious liver damage.
• Alcohol increases the risk of liver damage that can occur if an overdose of paracetamol is taken. The hazards of paracetamol overdose are greater in persistant heavy drinkers and in people with alcoholic liver disease.
• If this medicine is taken regularly for long periods of time, the body can become tolerant to it and it may become less effective at relieving pain. With prolonged use, the body may also become dependent on the codeine. As a result, withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness and irritability may occur if the medicine is then stopped suddenly. If you find you need to use this medicine all the time you should consult your doctor for advice.
• Consult your doctor if your symptoms persist despite taking this medicine.
• Taking a painkiller for headaches too often or for too long can actually make the headaches worse.

Use with caution in

• Elderly people.
• Weak or debilitated people.
• Decreased kidney function.
• Decreased liver function.
• Asthma.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
• Epilepsy.
• Underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
• Underproduction of natural steroid hormones by the adrenal glands (Addison's disease).
• Low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Narrowing of the urethra, causing difficulty passing urine.
• Enlarged prostate gland (prostatic hypertrophy).
• People at risk of bowel obstruction, eg due to constipation.
• Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
• Biliary tract disorders, eg recent surgery on the biliary tract.
• Myasthenia gravis.

Not to be used in

• Children under 12 years of age.
• Slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression).
• People having an asthma attack.
• Alcohol intoxication (acute alcoholism).
• People with a head injury or raised pressure inside the skull (raised intracranial pressure).
• Paralysis or inactivity in the intestines that prevents material moving through the gut (paralytic ileus).

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.

If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Label warnings

• Do not take more than 2 at any one time. Do not take more than 8 in 24 hours.
• Do not take this medication with any other products containing paracetamol.
• This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

• Constipation.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Dizziness.
• Lightheadedness.
• Drowsiness.
• Shortness of breath.
• Confusion.
• Mood changes.
• Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention).
• Skin rash.
• Dry mouth.
• Slowed heart rate.
• Contraction of the pupils.

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the medicine's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

An interesting thing was he gave me was a copy of my MRI results from 30th May 2009.

It never mentioned Arthritis but said shows intramensical degeneration but no tear.

Meaning - You have damaged/worn, but not torn, your meniscus

In anatomy, a meniscus (from Greek μηνίσκος meniskos, "crescent"^[1]) is a crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structure that, in contrast to articular disks, only partly divides a joint cavity.^[2] In humans it is present in the knee, acromioclavicular, sternoclavicular, and temporomandibular joints;^[3] in other organisms they may be present in other joints (e.g., between the forearm bones of birds). A small meniscus also occurs in the radio-carpal joint.
It usually refers to either of two specific parts of cartilage of the knee: The lateral and medial menisci. Both are cartilaginous tissues that provide structural integrity to the knee when it undergoes tension and torsion. The menisci are also known as 'semi-lunar' cartilages — referring to their half-moon "C" shape — a term which has been largely dropped by the medical profession, but which led to the menisci being called knee 'cartilages' by the lay public.

Arthritis Care

This morning i wrote the following on Arthritis Cares Forum

In 2009 i was diagnosed with osteo arthritis in my right knee, on seeing the consultant at the local hospital, he was dismissive and agressive about my condition and told me if i was still suffering when 70 (I am in my mid 50's), he may if he felt like it do a knee replacement, and when i asked what do i do in the meantime he said [b]struggle on[/b], sometimes the pain is so bad i take more ibupropen than i should out of desperation, i have not returned to the doctors, i struggle with steps and stairs, i used walk a lot i now barely walk, i work but it is such a struggle it brings me to tears,  The pain has now spread to my left knee and left hip, i was so upset with the appointment i have not returned to the Doctors, as I am so afraid of what they would say. 

 I do have a weight problem which i acknowledge is a contributory factor, and arthritis does run in the family.  I have tried to hard to lose weight unsuccessfully, but it is more difficult now, i used to regularly exercise now it is just impossible for me, i have not weighed myself for ages but i am sure the weight is creeping on.  Then there is conflicting advice online, exercise to keep mobile (which is difficult and painful), or rest and preserve the joints. 

I am depressed, afraid and at times suicidal, i have no quality of life and can see no way forward and no solution, my families advice is to go to the Doctor, but after the last time i can not get beyond the fear that possibilty entails.  This is no way to live it is just so hopeless, i guess this sounds selfish, i know there are others like me and some a lot worse, being forced financially to work is not helpful, but if i didn't i would never speak to or see anyone outside of the family.

http://www.arthritiscare.org.uk/forums/

Reply from the Forum

Hello Dawnbird,

Thank you for contacting us and welcome to the forum, we're glad you found us. I'm sorry to hear that you've been having such a rough time at the moment and that your experience with the consultant was a negative one.
I know it's natural to fell anxious and fearful about approaching your doctor after such an upsetting time with the consultant, but please try to remember that no one is going to judge you, all you want is some relief from the excruciating pain you're experiencing.
It is your GP's responsibility to try and help you find a way forward so I would suggest you go back and explain to him/her how unhappy you were with your consultation, how much pain you're trying to cope with and the effect that it's having on your quality of life. If you can communicate the full extent of just how tough things are, they are more likely to be empathic. If you feel this is going to be too difficult then take someone who knows you well with you to speak on your behalf.
You are entitled to a second opinion and it's really important to be aware, no matter how afraid you feel, that not all specialists are dismissive and aggressive - also that many surgeons will carry out knee replacement surgery if they feel it necessary, regardless of what age you are.
If you think it might be helpful to talk things through then please call us on the freephone number above.
We're here to listen and discuss treatment options with you, and you'll have as long as you need - there are no time limits to our calls. Hopefully we can help to feel less afraid.

Best wishes
Paul

Me and Doctors

Well, today i had a lecture from Steven about going to the Doctors.

I have terrible pain at times in both knees and my left hip i cannot walk properly at all anymore, but when i last went to see Dr Colman, a consultant at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn, on the 11th May 2009, he told me in no uncertain terms, that i had to struggle on, and if i lost weight he may do a knee replacement when i am 70.


In that case, why go to the Doctors they have washed their hands off of me, i know i need to do something but i am so scared, not being difficult as my family thinks.

Taken from the blog My Right Knee dated 14th July 2010 since this time the pain has spread to both knees and my left hip

On the 11^th March 2009 the results of the X-Ray came back, I was diagnosed with early stage of Osteo-Arthritis, although I do not dispute this, I am not convinced this is the whole story, because:- the rapidity of the onset of pain, osteo arthritis is degenerative, and the onset of the pain is gradual,  Weather and cold has no effect,   morning is my best time the more I do the worse the pain gets.

On the 11^th May 2009 I saw the orthopaedic consultant Dr Colman, to which I attended a most unsatisfactory interview, yes I had osteo arthritis, but he wouldn’t do anything because of my weight, if I lost a considerable amount of weight he might be prepared to do a knee replacement when I am 70, he would refer me to have an MRI, at this stage the nurse butted in and said she had difficulty getting in the MRI when she had one and I am bigger than she is, he then said there is a possibility of torn cartiledge and the MRI would reveal this, in this case he might be able to do keyhole surgery, if he felt like doing it because of the fat.  I asked him what I could do in the meantime, he shrugged and said Struggle On. I was embarrassed and humiliated, he was quite nasty in his attitude, never even invited me to sit down.
I am very upset and depressed about this appointment, I have tried hard, seriously and unsuccessfully to lose weight for many years, I lose quite easily 1 stone then I stop and nothing seems to work from then on. It is now Thurs am I have not had a meal since Monday lunchtime before my hospital appt, but I am at a loss as to what to do, radical steps are needed.  I have cried a lot everything feels so helpless, to live like this for the rest of my life, is there.

I eventually had an MRI scan on 31st May 2009 it was excrutiatingly painful, how my knee was forced to straighten up, but i survived, the consultant never gave me results after weeks of waiting the GP chased it up and it was confirmed i had Osteo Arthritis and torn cartiledge, he never asked to see me, offered treatment, or pain management.

My GP did put me on anti inflammatory Diclofenic and weightloss aid, xenical, but i cannot say i felt xenical really helped.

Oh the Pain

I worked at Manor Park today, and my hip and knee pain was incredible, i struggled for the rest of the day.

We went to see Steven tonight, all is as usual, no news.

Bob has gone to his N Guage show tonight, so is away for the weekend.

Pain so much Pain

It is now 5.30am another sleepless night, the pain in both knees and my left hip is incredible, it has been gradually getting worse for the past 2 weeks, when i have a  busy day, the pain becomes unbearable.

I know it is osteo arthritis that has spread to my other knee and hip.

It is a good job i moved from the flat i would not have been able to cope with the stairs or getting in and out of bed (not that the bed issue will be much of a problem, i can foresee quite soon having to stay up all night like before). 

I need to look for a job, but i am so worried that i won't be able to cope, i need a job for money and company. Otherwise i will be bored and lonely. What am i to do? 

I get little sympathy at home, i don't even get asked how i am, can i help you etc, just common sympathy and courtesy.

I was really looking forward to starting Art and Craft Club today, as Bob is out i would have to walk and don't know if i can make it, but not to go, is letting it beat me which i have been determined not to do, if i let it beat me, it will rule my life then i would be in a downward spiral to complete despair with no way back.

I have seriously considered going to the Doctors (which is rare for me to even think of it), then think what is the point, first they would tell me to lose weight, then most likely  prescibe NSAIDS and i could not afford the prescription  since i have no income whatsoever now.

The pain is incredible and i just see no way out, it reduced me to tears last night, which is unusual in it self, and i wasn't even given any kind of compassion or sympathy.

I get little sympathy at home, no one to say - how are you, can i help you, or a massage of the painful area, just common sympathy and courtesy.

Painful Feet

For the past month i have been getting Sore Burning Feet, it started with my right foot, the longer i am on my feet the worse it gets, till i can barely walk or stand.

It then progressed to my left foot but it is not as bad, so far.

The agony is indescribible at times, sometimes it comes on very sharp like a knife slicing the sole of my foot.

To begin with i put it down to my shoes as they are about 18 mths old, i thought they lacked cushioning, but i have now disregarded this idea, because i think my feet are so bad and it is getting progressively worse.


Of course an additional problem to all this, i can't do walking which i love and i can't exercise, which of course doesn't aid my weight loss.

The longer i am on my feet the worse it gets, and when i am at work 3 days running is a killer.  My days off work are just so boring and frustrating, because i try and rest it....

I googled it and this is the closest possibilty i could find.

Metatarsalgia

Definition

Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a condition marked by pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot.
You may experience metatarsalgia if you're physically active and you participate in activities that involve running and jumping. Or, you may develop metatarsalgia by wearing ill-fitting shoes. There are other causes as well.
Although generally not serious, metatarsalgia can sideline you. Fortunately, conservative treatments, such as ice and rest, can often relieve metatarsalgia symptoms. And proper footwear, along with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports, may be all you need to prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of metatarsalgia may include:

• Sharp, aching or burning pain in the ball of your foot — the part of the sole just behind your toes
• Pain in the area around your second, third or fourth toes — or, only near your big toe
• Pain that gets worse when you stand, walk or run and improves when you rest
• Sharp or shooting pain in your toes
• Numbness or tingling in your toes
• Pain that worsens when you flex your feet
• A feeling in your feet as if you're walking with a pebble in your shoe
• Increased pain when you're walking barefoot, especially on a hard surface

Sometimes these symptoms develop suddenly — especially if you've recently increased your usual amount of running, jumping or other high-impact exercise — but problems usually develop over time.

What are the causes of metatarsalgia?

One or a combination of many factors can cause metatarsalgia.
Among the most common is over-training or over-activity. Studies show that runners – who tend to put excessive pressure on their metatarsals when playing – develop metatarsalgia more than others do. Intensive, extended training puts an abnormal amount of stress on the balls of the feet, often causing irritation and eventually, inflammation.
A high arch, an abnormally long second toe, and other such structural factors can also cause metatarsalgia. People with hammertoes , those who wear high heels (which prevent the toes from relaxing flat), and those who are overweight are also more prone to metatarsalgia because their conditions tend to put more pressure on the balls of the feet.
The risk of developing metatarsalgia also appears to go higher as a patient grown older. This is because the fat pads on the metatarsals thin out as a person ages, diminishing the ability of the metatarsal bones to protect themselves.

Tests and Diagnoses

Most doctors require a patient to undergo an x-ray in order to rule out other foot problems which cause symptoms similar to those of metatarsalgia. Most doctors also ask about a patient’s lifestyle, exercising habits, activity levels, etc.

How to treat metatarsalgia?

Most metatarsalgia cases only require conservative treatment.
Metatarsalgia treatment can be as simple as applying ice packs to the affected area several times during the first day, for example – in most cases, this can already significantly reduce swelling and ease pain. Rest is another simple but effective form of metatarsalgia treatment. By keeping stress off the balls of the feet, inflammation and pain are reduced. Athletes who need to still keep active even during recuperation period are usually advised to temporarily switch to low impact exercises like swimming.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen. These drugs aid in lessening pain and swelling. Doctors may also prescribe specially-designed orthotics to minimize pressure. Shock-absorbing insoles are also great in cushioning the balls of the feet.
When conservative metatarsalgia treatment options fail, the doctor may recommend metatarsalgia surgery. During surgery, the metatarsal bones are realigned.

My Right Shoulder/Upper arm update

On checking my blogs it was the year 2000 since i last had serious problems with my shoulder, I have been getting pain for the past few days and i have made excuses, it is my Zumba exercises, i am reading a heavy hard backed book.

But today i can no longer kid myself, my left fingers are numb and tingling, my upper arm is painful which is restricting movement in my shoulder, if i stretch or carry the pain becomes unbearable. Something as basic as getting dressed is so painful.

It has been a difficult day at work, unable to use the computer or the till efficiently.

I no longer have a doctor i can go to, i do not know what to do, those years ago i had months and months of agony and tears, i just cannot face going through it again, but i was warned it could return.

In 2000 the diagnosis was Subluxation

 A subluxation may have different meanings, depending on the medical specialty involved. It implies the presence of an incomplete or partial dislocation (Latin: luxatio)^[1] of a joint or organ.^[2] The World Health Organization (WHO) defines both the medical subluxation and the chiropractic subluxation. It contrasts the two and states in a footnote that a medical subluxation is a "significant structural displacement, and therefore visible on static imaging studies."^[3]

Orthopedics

An orthopedic subluxation of any joint will usually need medical attention to help relocate or reduce the joint. Nursemaid's elbow is the subluxation of the head of the radius from the annular ligament. Other joints that are prone to subluxations are the shoulders, fingers, kneecaps, and hips affected by hip dysplasia. A spinal subluxation is relatively rare, but can sometimes impinge on spinal nerve roots, causing symptoms in the areas served by those roots. In the spine, such a displacement may be caused by a fracture, spondylolisthesis or severe osteoarthritis.

However it could be this, as the pain is centred on my upper arm??

Rotator cuff tear also known as Shoulder tendonitis

The term "rotator cuff" refers to a group of four tendons that blend together as they attach to the upper end of the arm bone (humerus). Normally these tendons transmit the force of muscles originating on the shoulder blade (scapula) to the arm providing motion and stability. The most commonly affected tendon is that of the supraspinatus muscle. Defects in the rotator cuff can come from an injury (cuff tear) or from degeneration (cuff wear). The degree to which a tendon is reparable depends on its quantity and quality. Degenerated tendons are often frail and retracted and may not be amenable to repair. Individuals that are elderly, smokers, or those having had cortisone injections often have weaker tendon tissue that fails without a significant injury. By contrast those whose tendon was torn by a substantial fall often have good quality tendon that can be repaired if surgery is performed promptly after the injury. The symptoms of rotator cuff disease include difficulty lifting the arm. Repair of a rotator cuff requires that the tendon be securely anchored to the bone at surgery and that the repair be protected for several months during healing. Further information that should be considered in the treatment of rotator cuff tears can be found at University of Washington School of Medicine.

Or it could be Shoulder Bursitis.

Impingement syndrome is a descriptive term of pinching of the tendons and bursa of the rotator cuff between bones. In many individuals with this problem, the shape of their bones is such that they have less space than others. Therefore, small thickenings of the tendons or bursa can cause symptoms.
Often there is an initial injury that sets off the process of inflammation. Thereafter, the problem can be self-exacerbating. Once there is an initial injury, the tendons and bursa become inflamed. This inflammation causes a thickening of these structures. The thickening then takes up more space, and therefore the tendons and bursa become are pinched upon even more. This causes more inflammation, and more thickening of the tendons and bursa, and so on.

Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

Common symptoms include:

• Pain with overhead activities (arm above head height)
• Pain while sleeping at night
• Pain over the outside of the shoulder/upper arm

Non Surgical Treatments

Treatments of inflammatory conditions usually starts with some simple steps, and becomes more advanced as needed. Some basic treatment steps include:

• Rest and Protect The Area
  Treatment must begin by avoiding aggravating movements. This may mean taking a break from a favorite activity for a period of time, but this is a necessary step to allow the inflammation to subside.
• Apply an Ice Pack
  Icing the area of inflammation is an important aspect of treatment. The ice will help control the inflammation and decrease swelling. By minimizing inflammation and swelling, the tendons and bursa can return to their usual state and perform as usual.
• Take Anti-Inflammatory Medications
  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and ease painful symptoms. Use anti-inflammatory medications under the direction of your physician.
• Cortisone Injections
  If the symptoms of tendonitis or bursitis are persistent, an injection of cortisone may be considered. Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication. But instead of being given by mouth, it is injected directly to the site of inflammation. This can be extremely helpful for situations that are not improved with rest.

Bob had a word with the Pharmacist  who recommended Ibupropen (nurofen) and Paraceymol.

http://orthopedics.about.com/cs/rotatorcuff/a/shbursitis.htm

My Issues with Health Professionals

I have so many problems with my teeth, with broken teeth, rough edges, discomfort but not pain.  A few weeks ago  a chip appeared in my front tooth, now this morning that chip has become a huge gap, i am very conscious of it as well as making my mouth feel very uncomfortable.

Why don't i go to the Dentist?  One of the reasons is cost, i really have no extra money that can be used for this.

I used to attend Coastal Dental Service, and saw a lovely Ugandan Dentist, approx 18 mths ago when i needed an extraction because i have a low pain and low gagging threshold she sent me to a clinic in Norwich, who were lovely and i had a very easy extraction.  When i next went to the Dentist I saw someone else who wasn't as supportive, i still needed lots of work doing, the dentist just said everything is ok, and didn't follow up with the planned treatments the Ugandan Dentist had discussed, part of me was disappointed and part was relieved.

It has really only recently occurred to me that part of my problems are with Doctors and Dentists, is i do have a fear of them, bordering on terror, the reasons i see for this are:-


Low Pain Threshold, where dentists are concerned this also includes Low Gagging threshold.
Invasion of Personal Space, i do not like people getting too close to me, where doctors are involved, i will not discuss all issues, i will select what is not too personal, i also won't discuss mental health issues.

I think also part of the problem is i have had a few unsympathetic problems with Health Professionals of one sort or another, and maybe part of it is my attitude, because i am unsure and nervous and cannot make myself clear on matters of concern, which perhaps leads to misunderstandings on both parts, and sometimes because i am so uptight, i am sometimes not too clear at remembering conversations with Health Professionals.

This is not me being difficult as my family tends to think, but genuine fear and embarrassment with these issues. There also is the problem with Bob i am not confident in discussing personal issues with him, would not dream of embarressing him by asking him to come to any appointments with me.

As well as needing to go to the Dentist i also need to go to the Optician, but the same things apply not so greatly perhaps, but cost has to be a driving force here, the other issues i can overcome with an Optician, especially now they don't blow air into my eyes and cause me pain and distress with it.

There does not seem to be a solution or a way round it.

My issues with Health Professionals

I have so many problems with my teeth, with broken teeth, rough edges, discomfort but not pain.  A few weeks ago  a chip appeared in my front tooth, now this morning that chip has become a huge gap, i am very conscious of it as well as making my mouth feel very uncomfortable.

Why don't i go to the Dentist?  One of the reasons is cost, i really have no extra money that can be used for this.

I used to attend Coastal Dental Service, and saw a lovely Ugandan Dentist, approx 18 mths ago when i needed an extraction because i have a low pain and low gagging threshold she sent me to a clinic in Norwich, who were lovely and i had a very easy extraction.  When i next went to the Dentist I saw someone else who wasn't as supportive, i still needed lots of work doing, the dentist just said everything is ok, and didn't follow up with the planned treatments the Ugandan Dentist had discussed, part of me was disappointed and part was relieved.

It has really only recently occurred to me that part of my problems are with Doctors and Dentists, is i do have a fear of them, bordering on terror, the reasons i see for this are:-

Low Pain Threshold, where dentists are concerned this also includes Low Gagging threshold.
Invasion of Personal Space, i do not like people getting too close to me, where doctors are involved, i will not discuss all issues, i will select what is not too personal, i also won't discuss mental health issues.

I think also part of the problem is i have had a few unsympathetic problems with Health Professionals of one sort or another, and maybe part of it is my attitude, because i am unsure and nervous and cannot make myself clear on matters of concern, which perhaps leads to misunderstandings on both parts, and sometimes because i am so uptight, i am sometimes not too clear at remembering conversations with Health Professionals.

This is not me being difficult as my family tends to think, but genuine fear and embarrassment with these issues. There also is the problem with Bob i am not confident in discussing personal issues with him, would not dream of embarressing him by asking him to come to any appointments with me.

As well as needing to go to the Dentist i also need to go to the Optician, but the same things apply not so greatly perhaps, but cost has to be a driving force here, the other issues i can overcome with an Optician, especially now they don't blow air into my eyes and cause me pain and distress with it.

There does not seem to be a solution or a way round it.  I have come to the conclusion that i do have a genuine phobia of dentists and doctors.

Memories are made of this

This blog has been created primarily as a memory jogger, i am just being too unnaturally forgetful, i have serious concerns.
For the past few months i have been becoming increasingly forgetful of basic things.

I used to be indecisive, now i am not so sure

And the symptoms have been getting progressively worse.

I think something and say something else.
I get my words twisted round, even though i am thinking the right word, for instance a typical example is i said Lemon, and i should have said and was thinking Melon.
I have difficulty making any kinds of decision, even something as simple as what drink to have or whether to have a hot or cold drink.
I am continually hungry, i can have a meal, straight afterwards i feel uncomfortably bloated and heavy.  An hour later i am starving.
I am always thirsty, permenantly dehydrated, and drinking loads more than i am used to.

My eyes are very tired, i have a nagging ache behind them a lot, it is not agony i am just aware of it.
I forget what i am doing, i just seem to space out and go vague, i overcharged a customer today because i just couldn't remember what i was doing at the time.
I am having difficulty going to sleep and then i wake up early.
I get very hot, like i have a high temperature.
I cannot get comfortable in any position, in my chair or in bed.  I do seem to be comfortable curled up in Bobs chair, but he gets agitated, then cos of my knee it is quite low and i can't get out of it easily.
I am headachy.
But the most bizarre thing (this is the strange bit) is i feel quite vague, it  is like i am in a parallel world to, myself looking on.
These symptoms are causing me a lot of concern, it is not physical so nothing you can put your finger on and go to the doctors about.
All i can think of is early onset alzeimers or pressure on the brain like a brain tumour.
David Hulse says i am typically describing Stress, and should try to take steps to reduce my stress.
Bob and the family just laugh at me, not realising how worried i am.
The only one who has noticed that things were amiss and i was out of sorts was Debbie, i didn't say anything, she just knew things were amiss!!!

This blog was originally created 17th July 2010 entitled How Strange am I?  the issues raised still exist for the most part!

Memories are made of this!

This blog has been created primarily as a memory jogger, i am just being too unnaturally forgetful, i have serious concerns.
For the past few months i have been becoming increasingly forgetful of basic things.

I used to be indecisive, now i am not so sure

And the symptoms have been getting progressively worse.

I think something and say something else.
I get my words twisted round, even though i am thinking the right word, for instance a typical example is i said Lemon, and i should have said and was thinking Melon.
I have difficulty making any kinds of decision, even something as simple as what drink to have or whether to have a hot or cold drink.
I am continually hungry, i can have a meal, straight afterwards i feel uncomfortably bloated and heavy.  An hour later i am starving.
I am always thirsty, permenantly dehydrated, and drinking loads more than i am used to.

My eyes are very tired, i have a nagging ache behind them a lot, it is not agony i am just aware of it.
I forget what i am doing, i just seem to space out and go vague, i overcharged a customer today because i just couldn't remember what i was doing at the time.
I am having difficulty going to sleep and then i wake up early.
I get very hot, like i have a high temperature.
I cannot get comfortable in any position, in my chair or in bed.  I do seem to be comfortable curled up in Bobs chair, but he gets agitated, then cos of my knee it is quite low and i can't get out of it easily.
I am headachy.
But the most bizarre thing (this is the strange bit) is i feel quite vague, it  is like i am in a parallel world to, myself looking on.
These symptoms are causing me a lot of concern, it is not physical so nothing you can put your finger on and go to the doctors about.
All i can think of is early onset alzeimers or pressure on the brain like a brain tumour.
David Hulse says i am typically describing Stress, and should try to take steps to reduce my stress.
Bob and the family just laugh at me, not realising how worried i am.
The only one who has noticed that things were amiss and i was out of sorts was Debbie, i didn't say anything, she just knew things were amiss!!!

This blog was originally created 17th July 2010 entitled How Strange am I?  the issues raised still exist for the most part!

Our 34th Anniversary

April- Marry in April if you can, joy for maiden and for man.

I don't know whether it is my problem or the shops or card manufacturer, but yesterday when i went to write out  Bobs anniversary card it said Happy Birthday inside, wow the panic, so talking to Jen, I found a verse i liked on the computer, printed it out and Jen helped me make it fit, i hope it doesn't look too home made, the front of the card was a definite anniversary, so did the manufacturer print the wrong words in the middle??

The verse read

Never a moment passes by
When you're not on my mind
And words could not express my joy
That in my thoughts, I find
For, you to me are everything
My reason just to be
And I feel there is no doubt
That you're the other half of me

Today is our wedding anniversary, we have been married 34 years, it is a bittersweet day, 34 years ago i started married life with such dreams and ambitions and it has all turned to dust.

I ask have we been happy, i really cannot answer that, i feel sad and lonely a lot of the time, we do not communicate enough.

Jen and Andy got us a card with the following verse

On this your anniversary
To a special Mum and Dad
This celebrates the happy years
of married life you've had
The love you share's amazing
one on which you can depend
Knowing that you'll always be
each others greatest friend
But what can be the secret
of your sweet devoted ways
It's really pretty simple

Then it had to be ruined by saying inside

Mum commands and Dad Obeys

Bob bought me 2 bunches of flowers, cream roses and deep red chrysanths.

Bob made us a nice dinner, howeve, it would of been nice to be taken out and wined and dined for a change:(

Not a good day

Today i have been feeling very rough, i keep having coughing and sneezing, my throat is rough dehydrated and feels like sand paper, my head is throbbing and i ache across the neck and shoulders.

On top of that i have been clumsy, i have knocked over 2 FULL mugs of hot drinks.  I have been laid up on the sofa all day, trying to get well, spent virtually all day reading been ages since i read as much, i felt miserble as it is a beatiful lovely warm sunny day and i would have loved to go a walk, its the pitts next chance for a walk will be next Tuesday when i am sure it will be raining, knowing my luck!!

Tonight is bible study, i feel gutted at the possibility of missing it, but feel it is the only responsible thing to do, i asked Bob what he thought and was hoping he would just say i shouldn't go, decision made, but oh no, if i went by car and not go out in the cold perhaps i would be ok, only perhaps mind you, i still feel it would be irresponsible to go though!!

Not a good day

Today i have been feeling very rough, i keep having coughing and sneezing, my throat is rough dehydrated and feels like sand paper, my head is throbbing and i ache across the neck and shoulders.

On top of that i have been clumsy, i have knocked over 2 FULL mugs of hot drinks.  I have been laid up on the sofa all day, trying to get well, spent virtually all day reading been ages since i read as much, i felt miserble as it is a beatiful lovely warm sunny day and i would have loved to go a walk, its the pitts next chance for a walk will be next Tuesday when i am sure it will be raining, knowing my luck!!

Tonight is bible study, i feel gutted at the possibility of missing it, but feel it is the only responsible thing to do, i asked Bob what he thought and was hoping he would just say i shouldn't go, decision made, but oh no, if i went by car and not go out in the cold perhaps i would be ok, only perhaps mind you, i still feel it would be irresponsible to go though!!

My Baptism

On Sunday 13th March 2011, i woke up a bag of nerves, i only wish my children would be there with me, oh well this is to be as expected that they couldn't be bothered, but it still hurts.

I arrived at Church to a lovely warm atmosphere, there at my invitation was Mum, Bob, Jan and Holly Wiegand and Hilary Letch, and Janet Lawrence and yes, Jen, Andy and the children actually turned up.

Also present was Elaine and Richard Bird and Mayor Elect Carol Bower.

Bob has been helping to set up the sound system, as they have had problems, so went off to do that.

 It started off with the hymn 689 Thine be the Glory then the prayer and offering, the reading was Romans 6 v 1-12.

Then David read out the message.

Then it was my Hymn choice 133 Father I place into your hands here i fell apart and started crying, then i plucked up courage to go and read my Testimony, and i dont think i did too badly.

Then it was Joanna Forts turn her choice of hymn was 37 As the deer pants, followed by her testimony.

Then it was Sandys turn her choice was hymn 857 I the Lord of Sea and Sky followed by Sandys testimony.

Then came Carols Hymn choice Hymn 41 At the Name of Jesus, Carol didn't feel able to do a Testimony.

Then Janet Groom did the Prayers for all of us being baptised.

Then it was the time for the Baptisms

1st Carol, followed by the Chorus of 367 Jesus is Lord

Then it was my turn it was very moving, although i paniced when i was underwater, then Sophie held the towel as i got out and Bob came to help me, then the Chorus of 220 He is Lord was sung, afterwards i wrapped in a towel i went to join Carol and we had a hug.

Then it was Joannas turn followed by verse 1 of Hymn 281 I lift my eyes.

Then it was Sandys turn who was the only one of us who elected to be baptised backwards followed by Chorus of 367 Jesus is Lord.

We then went into the toilet to get dry and changed and afterwards came back out. Bernard had been telling a messaged and then the Hymn 708 To God be the Glory.

 When we came out Fergus present all of us with certificates.

Finishing with the Hymn 501 O Jesus i have promised.

It was a wonderful service, and people came upto me afterwards and hugged and kissed me and gave me loads of card altogether i had 21 Cards.  I was also given a bunch of flowers from the Church. It was beautiful and moving. An amazing Day.


Cards I received

Bob
Mum and Dad - Bought me a book The wind through the Reeds poems by Jenny Whybrow
David and Ruth Hulse - Bought me a book Psalms to Soothe a Womans Heart
Jenny and Andy Smith - 'On the day of Baptism the angels said a prayer that God would always bless you and keep you in his care'
Carol and Fergus
Christine Taverner - 'May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit' Rom18:13
Sandy Nizol
Eve Eates
Barry and Janet Eastwood - Thank God for your step in Faith
Sue Richardson - 'Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord lies upon you'  Isiah 60:1,
John and Margaret Loose - You have been a very faithful soul
Janet and Tony Groom - 'I am the way, the truth and the life' John 14: 6
Mary and Dave Brown
Kim - 'In the Ocean of Life, faith is the anchor of the soul'
Ray and Miriam Hodson and Penny Pinder

Joanna Fort - Thank you for being you and your support
Chris and Gerald Hall
Alison Girling
Janet and Richard Lawrence
Pam and Roger Smith
Linda Lee

Best wishes and apologies
Susanne Durston
Wendy and Peter Andrews

When Sue Richardson handed me her card she said that she felt the word shine was being sent to her by God so she put it in her card 'Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord lies upon you'  Isiah 60:1, the amazing thing was just before i left Joanna said to me 'you are shining'  amazing that 2 different people picked on the same phrase, and during Tuesday Bible study the term was used.

After church we were invited to Stevens for lunch with Sophie and Dylan, we had Jacket Potato, Salad and Trimmings, with a home baked coffee cake nicely decorated by Steven, after lunch we went a walk along Dersingham Heath and finished up climbing a tree.

Which was great, i climbed a tree when was the last time wow, God has done amazing things today, i am walking on air.

Then we had to go because Bob had to go to work.

I got home and Andy and Jen made us tea, with another special cake, a bought chocolate one this time.

What a fantastic amazing day.

My Baptism Testimony

I feel I have always been a Christian.

There has been no blinding flash of light, which said, ‘now I have found Jesus’. However, there have been 3 times in my life that have had a profound effect.

When I was about 12, and living in Leicester, I had a row with my Mum (What's New). I stormed out of the house, and eventually ended up sitting on a bench, which happened to be outside of All Saints Church in Wigston Magna, Leicester. I sat there feeling rather upset, when an elderly lady came to me and asked if I was alright. One thing led to another and she invited me to accompany her into church. During communion, she invited me to go up with her to be blessed. This is my first memory of being in a church and has stayed with me.

Then in June 1984, the Evangelist Billy Graham toured the UK, and I went to see him at Carrow Road, Canarys Football Grounds in Norwich. This was a wonderful experience.

When I first attended Union Church, Muriel was there to welcome me and it felt right for me, just like coming home. On the 2nd May 1999, I had the honour of being received into membership of the Union Church, by Jonathan Calvert during communion.

During a particularly bad time in my life, I couldn't face going to church. I couldn’t seem to get through a service without crying and I got so embarrassed, this is the time I needed church the most, but was too upset to attend. The longer I left it the harder it came to make that first move back to Church.

Since I took the plunge and returned to church my faith has become deeper. I regularly attend Bible Study, and study daily bible notes Word for Today. I find I am more open with my faith and no longer keep it hidden as if I am ashamed of it.

It has been a rocky and interesting road to get to this point. I have been considering being baptised for over 10 years, when I was witness to a Baptism performed by Jonathan Calvert.

I now feel that the time is right for me to make this commitment to myself and to God, as I have grown more confident in my faith. I have learnt to trust in Jesus and thank the Lord for not giving up on me, even when I felt like giving up, and pray that with his help, and the help of my friends at Union, I will grow as a Christian and get ever closer to God. I would just like to finish with the immortal words ‘Father I place into your hands, the things that I can’t do’.

My Right Knee

In 2008 I started getting aching stiff  right knee joint, then in October 2008, the pain came upon me very fast and strong, making me in agony and completely immobile.
The symptoms take the form of immobile right knee, Difficulty walking, Severe pain over knee joint, Burning pain in inner knee, feel like knee is going to give way, referred pain on left knee through incorrect walking, Swollen Feet and ankles, inability to get comfortable in bed, I have spent 3 weeks sitting downstairs all night.
Later Bob told me I fell downstairs but I have no recollection of that whatsoever.
The pain grew and grew until work became a struggle, I am struggling taking the dog for its twice daily walk, I have to cut back on our family Sunday afternoon walks, also cut down on my guiding, eventually I had to give up my beloved yoga, I am left with virtually no quality of life everything that I enjoy I have had to give up or cut back on, my weight has gradually increased because of lack of exercise, I have difficulty going up and down stairs it is an accident waiting to happen, I also have difficulty getting in and out of the bath, I cannot have a bath because I couldn’t sit down in the bath.
I have also been having tingling in my fingertips.
Then after months of suffering I finally realised it was not going to go away by itself and went to the GP and saw Dr Ghag on the 12^th February 2009, who referred me to the hospital for an X Ray and to see orthopaedic consultant, and tests on my finger nerve endings.
On the 26^th Feb I had a series of blood tests which were clear, and on the 26^th Feb I had an X Ray.
On Tuesday 10^th March I was prescribed Co-codemol to which I reacted badly, on the 11^th March I returned to the Doctor and was prescribed Diclofenic, to which I had some improvement.  On the 14^th April I ran out and decided not to immediately get a repeat prescription, so I could see the true state of the pain, to which I suffered quite badly.
On the 11^th March the results of the X-Ray came back, I was diagnosed with early stage of Osteo-Arthritis, although I do not dispute this, I am not convinced this is the whole story, because:- the rapidity of the onset of pain, osteo arthritis is degenerative, and the onset of the pain is gradual,  Weather and cold has no effect,          morning is my best time the more I do the worse the pain gets.
On the 5^th May I went to the hospital for tests on my finger nerve endings, and was told I had trapped nerves on my right hand and early stage on my left hand, this can be treated through my GP.
On the 11^th May I saw the orthopaedic consultant Dr Colman, to which I attended a most unsatisfactory interview, yes I had osteo arthritis, but he wouldn’t do anything because of my weight, if I lost a considerable amount of weight he might be prepared to do a knee replacement when I am 70, he would refer me to have an MRI, at this stage the nurse butted in and said she had difficulty getting in the MRI when she had one and I am bigger than she is, he then said there is a possibility of torn cartiledge and the MRI would reveal this, in this case he might be able to do keyhole surgery, if he felt like doing it because of the fat.  I asked him what I could do in the meantime, he shrugged and said Struggle On. I was embarrassed and humiliated, he was quite nasty in his attitude, never even invited me to sit down.
I am very upset and depressed about this appointment, I have tried hard, seriously and unsuccessfully to lose weight for many years, I lose quite easily 1 stone then I stop and nothing seems to work from then on. It is now Thurs am I have not had a meal since Monday lunchtime before my hospital appt, but I am at a loss as to what to do, radical steps are needed.  I have cried a lot everything feels so helpless, to live like this for the rest of my life, is there.
When the MRI scan comes I felt disinclined to keep the appointment for several reasons, it appears unlikely that the Doctor would do anything whatever the results, I am claustrophobic and the thought of going in the machine makes me panic, what the nurse said about me struggling to get in the machine, and the likely pain of trying to get into position.
In 2008 I started getting aching stiff  right knee joint, then in October 2008, the pain came upon me very fast and strong, making me in agony and completely immobile.
The symptoms take the form of immobile right knee, Difficulty walking, Severe pain over knee joint, Burning pain in inner knee, feel like knee is going to give way, referred pain on left knee through incorrect walking, Swollen Feet and ankles, inability to get comfortable in bed, I have spent 3 weeks sitting downstairs all night.
Later Bob told me I fell downstairs but I have no recollection of that whatsoever.
The pain grew and grew until work became a struggle, I am struggling taking the dog for its twice daily walk, I have to cut back on our family Sunday afternoon walks, also cut down on my guiding, eventually I had to give up my beloved yoga, I am left with virtually no quality of life everything that I enjoy I have had to give up or cut back on, my weight has gradually increased because of lack of exercise, I have difficulty going up and down stairs it is an accident waiting to happen, I also have difficulty getting in and out of the bath, I cannot have a bath because I couldn’t sit down in the bath.
I have also been having tingling in my fingertips.
Then after months of suffering I finally realised it was not going to go away by itself and went to the GP and saw Dr Ghag on the 12^th February 2009, who referred me to the hospital for an X Ray and to see orthopaedic consultant, and tests on my finger nerve endings.
On the 26^th Feb I had a series of blood tests which were clear, and on the 26^th Feb I had an X Ray.
On Tuesday 10^th March I was prescribed Co-codemol to which I reacted badly, on the 11^th March I returned to the Doctor and was prescribed Diclofenic, to which I had some improvement.  On the 14^th April I ran out and decided not to immediately get a repeat prescription, so I could see the true state of the pain, to which I suffered quite badly.
On the 11^th March the results of the X-Ray came back, I was diagnosed with early stage of Osteo-Arthritis, although I do not dispute this, I am not convinced this is the whole story, because:- the rapidity of the onset of pain, osteo arthritis is degenerative, and the onset of the pain is gradual,  Weather and cold has no effect,          morning is my best time the more I do the worse the pain gets.
On the 5^th May I went to the hospital for tests on my finger nerve endings, and was told I had trapped nerves on my right hand and early stage on my left hand, this can be treated through my GP.
On the 11^th May I saw the orthopaedic consultant Dr Colman, to which I attended a most unsatisfactory interview, yes I had osteo arthritis, but he wouldn’t do anything because of my weight, if I lost a considerable amount of weight he might be prepared to do a knee replacement when I am 70, he would refer me to have an MRI, at this stage the nurse butted in and said she had difficulty getting in the MRI when she had one and I am bigger than she is, he then said there is a possibility of torn cartiledge and the MRI would reveal this, in this case he might be able to do keyhole surgery, if he felt like doing it because of the fat.  I asked him what I could do in the meantime, he shrugged and said Struggle On. I was embarrassed and humiliated, he was quite nasty in his attitude, never even invited me to sit down.
I am very upset and depressed about this appointment, I have tried hard, seriously and unsuccessfully to lose weight for many years, I lose quite easily 1 stone then I stop and nothing seems to work from then on. It is now Thurs am I have not had a meal since Monday lunchtime before my hospital appt, but I am at a loss as to what to do, radical steps are needed.  I have cried a lot everything feels so helpless, to live like this for the rest of my life, is there.
When the MRI scan comes I am disinclined to keep the appointment for several reasons, it appears unlikely that the Doctor would do anything whatever the results, I am claustrophobic and the thought of going in the machine makes me panic, what the nurse said about me struggling to get in the machine, and the likely pain of trying to get into position.
I do not ever want to see that consultant again, It was humiliating and embarrassing, he was abrupt, nasty and quite frankly his attitude was bullying and intimidating.
I eventually had an MRI scan in May 2009 it was excrutiatingly painful, how my knee was forced to straighten up, but i survived, the consultant never gave me results after weeks of waiting the GP chased it up and it was confirmed i had Osteo Arthritis and torn cartiledge, he never asked to see me, offered treatment, or pain management.
My GP did put me on anti inflammatory Diclofenic and weightloss aid, xenical, but i cannot say i felt xenical really helped, but i never got the nasty side effects i was advised i would get.
Although my knee is at times still painful it has been much improved during the past few months, i can't walk as far, i cannot stand for long stretches, but i struggle on, as advised!!
Knee pain is a problem in the family, my paternal grandmother, Granny, always suffered from a bad knee and so does my paternal aunt, Auntie Marge, and now my Dad does as well.