What shall I do?

Hi Curliehead,

I wish I had some good advice for you, but all I can do is relate to what you are going through, as I too have osteoarthritis in my neck, knees, hips and feet! The arthritis was worse in my right knee and had TKR 6 weeks ago, but I am just hoping I don't need it on the other knee or hip, but fear I may have to eventually.

As far as the swelling, pain and stiffness in your knee, I can only say to stay off of it and keep icing it and try to get in to see your doctor as soon as possible. This should be considered an emergency, it sounds like to me, especially if your back is hurting so much as well.

As far as our shared osteoarthritis, I've been told there is really nothing that can be done except the injections (which I avoid as well) and low impact exercise to keep mobility. I know you can't exercise right now, but as soon as your knee is better, you can get back to it. Good for you doing Zumba dance! Thats difficult! Right now though, see your doctor!!!! Good luck to you!

Do you have a Minor injuries unit at your local hospital?

they could have a look at it and arrange for you to see somebody for follow up.

if not, if you are in bad pain then a trip to A&E is probably called for to rule out joint damage.

Hi, with that kind of pain I would go to A&E if your  GP can't see you.

Hello Curlihead! 

I feel very sorry for you because you shouldn't still be suffering like this. I too have osteo arthritis all over the place (so far replacement hip and both knees!) and there's no way you can excercises when it just makes things worse. I used to do aerobics and play badminton but i cant any more. If youre used to regular excercise  and you suddenly stop youre bound to put on weight. I had the injections, but they're only a temporary relief, so if I were you I'd go back to my doctor - or change doctors if necessary - and say that you really can't put up with it any more. 

Thanks everyone I had been to a and e at weekend but no better and still can't get in with gp so I am obviously quite angry now  plus I had a job interview and if I get it I want to be pain free or at least have it under control.

i will update tomoz thanks again 😘

i think that you may well be overdoing the zumba and your knees are suffering for it. I would rest up more so you can manage the knee problem.

Richard