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what sort of arthritis

Posted , 8 users are following.

sue73
sue73

I suspect I have arthritis (painful joints, all of them!) but does it matter whether it's osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, and is there any treatment for either of them apart from painkillers, which I don't want to take? In other words, is it worth bothering to see my GP and get a diagnosis, or shall I just carry on exercising as much as possible and hope for the best?

1 like, 18 replies

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  • bronwyn97278
    bronwyn97278 sue73

    Posted

    Hi Sue...yes there is a lot of difference between Osteo and Rheumatoid.  I only Osteo, and thank that I do, or those I know who do have Rheumatoid/Psoriatric, they certainly seem to have a ot more pain than I do....I feel that mine is more like Over wearing of joints ;however, those with the other forms (and there are many other forms), from how they express their pain, it is certainly more debilitating, and if I had their symptoms, I would Certainly need Pain-killers/meds, as it can affect other organs s well as joints.  I do take meds, expecially when my joints become Very sore in the colder months, and use of these joints (eg typing) can become quite and issue...I wear special Arthrites Gloves...us strapping (sports tape),and make plenty use of Hot Packs, and Arthritic Creams massaged into joints. When I find that these are not enough, I use NSAIDS   (voltaren and when unbearable, have to take Endone)....if I don't, I'm not an easy person to be around, as I become quite ANTSY/SNAPPY, and to be truthful, I don't think that is fair on those who have to be around me.....Perhaps you can confirm your diagnosis by having some x-rays/blood tests, and then decide from there which way you want to go.....Bron
  • mayday35
    mayday35 sue73

    Posted

    Knee replacements are no longer being considered a good option. PRP is the latest technology. It is harmless as is the injection of your own white blood cells, plasma.
  • wknight
    wknight sue73

    Posted

    In the UK NICE does allow PRP but only under very special conditions. Their investigation into the effectiveness of the treatment makes interesting reading especially as I have has 2 joint replacements 
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