InstantForum.NET v4.1.4Arthritis Foundation Forumhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/sitehelp@arthritis.orgWed, 08 Feb 2012 08:40:02 GMT20http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4501495-4628-1.aspxI went to a Cryogenic Spa and had several 3 minute treatments. I have no pain and increased mobility. I recommend it highly! dgniewek@comcast.netThis is the place I went to:www.CryospaUSA.comTue, 31 Jan 2012 15:56:47 GMTDebra Gniewekhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4347908-4628-1.aspxDue to severe osteoarthritis I had to have a bilateral total joint replacement of my jaw/tmj. I was wondering if anyone else has gone through this. I live with chronic pain that will never go away. Osteoarthritis has destroyed my jaw bones. Would love to talk to others who have been through this exact same thing. TerriTue, 06 Apr 2010 14:52:27 GMTTmjTerrihttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4500732-4628-1.aspxIm new 34 mother of 3 , I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in nov of 2011,since then Iv'e been having numbness in my feet off & on through out the day.lastnight my knee felt like it was about to give out and pain shot through the nerves (verry painful) I have done some reserarch on the internet about my symptoms, so far it says i may have osteoarthritis in the spine?? i never heard this but if anybody knows the pain & feelings im talking about please feel free to give me some insight thanks:DThu, 19 Jan 2012 06:29:07 GMTDenise Harrisonhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4499819-4628-1.aspxI know with the holiday's and all it has been difficult for most to be on this forum. But, without input and feedback from our members it is nothing. As part of a new year's resolution we all must resolve to log in at least one a day just to see what is going on and help one another. This is a constant on going battle the affects us 24/7. Don't let your guard down!:exclamationmark:Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:25:08 GMTChris DeAngelohttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4470577-4628-1.aspxI have just been diagnosed with Pelvic Osteoarthritis at the age of 33. Was looking for anyone who has this that can give me some information.Thanks,Thu, 14 Apr 2011 09:02:22 GMTAnna Marie Hannahttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4485570-4628-1.aspxI have read that OA is hereditary and my father by his early 40s had multiple surgeries on each knee to remove the inflammation, before he had both knee joints completely replaced with an artifical joint. He tells me of early swelling in his joints. He also suffered disc ruptures in his neck and was prescribed considerable painkillers and retired at 45. My symptoms are more spine based than knee. Turning my head certain ways produces the symptomatic cracking and popping, pretty loudly. Also if i look down i get a pretty strong pain in my back all the way to my neck.Another symptom I only heard a friend mention, was a hormone imbalance, such as low testosterone, I suspect i have a symptom or two of that as well. I have no insurance and have not had an x-ray of my neck before. I hear they are prohibitively expensive and friends told me to see a chiropractor. Do I have options other than paying out of pocket for a doctor to look at it?Sat, 13 Aug 2011 07:04:17 GMTAdam Catronhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4488758-4628-1.aspx[color=#blue][size=4]ScienceDaily (Sep. 3, 2011) — Joint injury can result in irreversible damage of cartilage which, despite treatment and surgery, often eventually leads to osteoarthritis (OA) in later life. New research published in BioMed Central's open access journal Arthritis Research & Therapy demonstrates that short term treatment of damaged cartilage with glucocorticoids can reduce long term degenerative changes and may provide hope for prevention of OA after injury.A normal joint is covered by a layer of cartilage containing proteoglycans such as aggrecan and lubricating fluid containing glycosaminoglycans (GAG) such as hyaluronic acid. In a double whammy, after injury proteoglycans and other molecules in cartilage begin to break down and the synthesis of these proteoglycans within cartilage is reduced. Additionally proinflammatory cytokines such as TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 are released into the synovial fluid after injury and further increase GAG loss from cartilage.Using a 'worst-case scenario' system in which cartilage was subjected to mechanical injury and bombarded with immune system-stimulating bio-molecules (TNFα and IL-6) the glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX) was able to reduce GAG loss and restore proteoglycan synthesis levels to normal.Prof Alan Grodzinsky from the MIT Center for Biomedical Engineering said, "Glucocorticoid injections are sometimes used to relieve the pain of established osteoarthritis, but there are concerns about long-term use. Our results suggest that short-term glucocorticoid treatment after joint injury may help restore components of cartilage to preinjury levels and consequently may prevent the long term changes which lead to osteoarthritis."[/size] [/color][url]http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/09/110902081657.htm[/url]Wed, 07 Sep 2011 21:13:28 GMTNikkiLynnhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4484204-4628-1.aspx[color=#blue][size=4]July 20, 2011 — The search for a disease-modifying osteoarthritis drug briefly centered on doxycycline after early data suggested the antibiotic might have disease-modifying properties in osteoarthritis (OA). However, as Gijs F. Snijders, MD, from Sint Maartenskliniek, Department of Rheumatology, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, and colleagues report in an article published in the July issue of the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, a randomized controlled trial showed that doxycycline did not reduce knee OA symptoms bud did increase risk for adverse events.[b]Dr. Snijders told Medscape Medical News: "Doxycycline did not reduce symptoms (pain, stiffness, function) in symptomatic knee OA. Doxycycline could still have structure-modifying properties; however, due to the associated side effects, I do not think that doxycycline should have a role in OA treatment."[/b]The trial was a 24-week randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the symptomatic efficacy of 100 mg doxycycline twice a day in 232 patients with knee OA that fulfilled clinical and radiological American College of Rheumatology classification criteria (defined as the knee causing most complaints during the screening visit), as well as a Kellgren and Lawrence score of 2 or 3 and a Western Ontario McMaster Universities pain score greater than 20/100. Patients were assessed at baseline, week 12, and week 24 at the outpatient clinic, and by telephone on weeks 6 and 18.The primary study endpoint was clinical response at week 24, defined by Outcome Measures in Rheumatology Clinical Trials (OMERACT) and Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) criteria. At week 24, treatment response was 27% in the doxycycline group and 35% in the placebo group (P = .2). There were also no differences in response rates in patients with severe pain on scores for pain, stiffness, and function or on concomitant use of OA-related medication.Significantly more patients dropped out as a result of adverse events in the doxycycline group than in the placebo group (19 vs 5; P < .01).The authors conclude: "The findings of the present study indicate that doxycycline is not effective in reducing symptoms in knee [OA] patients over a 24-week study period, but is associated with an increased risk of adverse events. Although previously a possible structure-modifying effect of doxycycline was suggested, this is not accompanied by symptom relief in the short and medium term. Because of the unfavourable risk-benefit ratio, doxycycline should not be used in the management of knee [OA]."In an accompanying editorial, Kenneth D. Brandt, MD, clinical professor of medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, pointed out that the Snijders study "adds importantly to our knowledge about the clinical efficacy of [doxycycline] in patients with knee OA [but] it neither confirms nor refutes the previous report of a [structure-modifying OA drug] effect of [doxycycline]."Dr. Snijders said, "The structure modifying effect should be investigated, preferably with synthetic metalloproteinase inhibitors without major/common side effects."Eric L. Matteson, MD, director of rheumatology at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, reviewed the study for Medscape Medical News, noting: "I think this is a compelling and well-done study which satisfactorily answers the question about whether this drug works for symptomatic relief of OA. Unfortunately, it does not work and should not be recommended to patients."Dr. Matteson added, "The hope was that this drug approach could affect metalloproteinase activity in the joint and thereby mitigate the symptoms of OA.... [T]he joint biology and related symptomatology of OA is far more complex than can be addressed by this approach using this antibiotic."Dr. Snijders and the other study authors, Dr. Brandt, and Dr. Matteson have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.[/size] [/color][url]http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/746690[/url]Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:08:40 GMTNikkiLynnhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4496863-4628-1.aspxHello Everyone!My 57 year old mother was just diagnosed with degenerative arthritis in her thumb. Over half of the cartilage is gone. She has had issues with it for years. She is at the point where she is dropping things, and is in a lot of pain. The doctor said she could do injections to see if that would help, or he could do surgery where he rolls up a ligament he removes from her arm and places it in the space between the bones where the cartilage is missing. Total recovery time for this surgery is 1 year.Has anyone had experience with osteoarthritis in their thumb?? Anyone had this (or other surgery?? Or other treatments that work??Who are the best doctors and hospitals for osteoarthritis? Any alternative treatments that have worked??ANY and all advice, experiences, resources, etc. appreciated! Thank you!Thu, 24 Nov 2011 02:16:00 GMTAmy Koenighttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4425282-4628-1.aspx[font=Verdana][size=3] I went to PT yesterday and during the evaluation was told that I definitely do NOT have a frozen shoulder but tendonitis by the rotator cuff on the left shoulder and, since I've been compensating with the right arm so much, I have some tendonitis there. The therapist also believes this is the reason for the pain in the shoulder muscle. I've been told that I have some fibro, but it may not be that. We'll see as time goes on and I do the exercises and go to see the PT. She even told me how to START to ride the exercise bike for my knees. She advised me to just do a rocking motion with a half turn of the pedal instead of trying to do the full turn at first that I had not been able to do without pain. [/size][/font]Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:35:29 GMTGennyhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4448130-4628-1.aspxHello there. I am new to this website and looking for others that have the same problem that I do. I have OA in my spine. Not very comfortable at all. lol I have been seeing a pain specialist who has recently done the RF ablation to my nerves along my spine. I am hoping that this procedure works for me. I have been in pain for about a year now. My only relief is laying down. I can not sit for long periods of time, walking or excerising seems to make it worse. Anybody out there have any suggestions for me? The dr mentioned before that if these procedures do not work, then I may have to have surgery. That is my last resort.Sun, 12 Dec 2010 17:23:40 GMTamanda gucciardohttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4489570-4628-1.aspxI was just diagnosed, and I think that may have made reality of ageing hit me harder than ever. I have had severe pain on and off for many years, beginning with tendinitis in both arms in my early 20's. I was in a worse car accident than I ever believed though shortly after (which I walked away from-nick on my knee, but finger marks left in the dash)...and am now finding out that over a decade and a half ago, that probably caused me to be in the constant pain I'm in today. I'm just really not too sure how to deal with this, I have a hard enough time walking (broke a knee & born with one slightly out of place-now both arthritic)...but with my back flare ups I can hardly straighten up some days. I don't know if I'm just sad that I was hoping pinched nerve, or something ...or if I am finally, now getting close to 40, am feeling old. And will I have to take these meds for life now? Any advice appreciated!Wed, 14 Sep 2011 09:29:19 GMTBeth Spidyhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4482351-4628-1.aspxhello,4 yrs agao i was diagnosed with OA in both hips. I was 32. I stopped playing hockey, running, pretty much anything that had high impact on my knees. Ive had 2 kids and one is on the way since then. running around with them has really brought the pain. I have constant pain in both hips, knees and thighs. Can't lay on my sides cause the pain is immediate. Have to sleep on my stomach to eleviate pain. Recently pain has me waking up every 1-2 hrs. Have been taking celebrex but not really helping. The last thing i want to do is have hip replacements, but I dont know what else I can do. Has anyone had a hip replacement under the age of 40? what is the rehab like? what was the outcome? has pain been relieved? I am very nervous about even looking up info. I am afraid I will be doomed to a wheel chair before 60. Any info would be nice. cheers,keithMon, 18 Jul 2011 16:02:23 GMTKeith Andeshttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4460842-4628-1.aspxMy mother is 82 and has OA in both hips. I am buying her a new bed and was looking for the experience of others about what kind of mattresses are mast comfortable for her condition.Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:58:49 GMTJ Kholtzhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4484540-4628-1.aspxHi I would be interested to hear from anyone who has had finger joint fusion. I am curious as to the success of this procedure.I am contemplating having my DIP J (first finger joint) fused, as I had an undiagnosed infection in my ring finger DIP joint destroy all the cartilage around 3 years ago, and I am passionate about playing the guitar. As I already have no movement as such in the joint, from what I have read I don’t have much to lose. I look forward to being able to play a couple of songs without pain. Is this a realistic expectation? Is it also realistic to expect to be able to use the finger more aggressively, and be able to apply pressure to the pad of my finger rather than just the tip?What sort of time frame should be expected before there is an improvement compared to the current state of the joint? :D Thanks for your thoughts :DTraceyThu, 04 Aug 2011 16:24:53 GMTTracey Maulehttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4488780-4628-1.aspx[font=Verdana][size=3]Chondroitin Sulfate Improves Hand Function, Relieves Morning Stiffness Caused By OsteoarthritisNew research shows that chondroitin sulfate significantly decreased pain and improved hand function in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the hand compared with those in the placebo group...To read the full article, please go to:http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/233913.phpNew research shows that chondroitin sulfate significantly decreased pain and improved hand function in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the hand compared with those in the placebo group. Results of the clinical trial available in Arthritis & Rheumatism, a journal published by Wiley-Blackwell on behalf of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), also report that chondroitin sulfate improves grip strength and relieves morning stiffness. The ACR estimates that OA - the most common form of arthritis - affects more than 27 million adults in the U.S., causing joint pain and stiffness. Approximately 10% of the world population, 60 years and older, have symptomatic osteoarthritis according to the Global Burden of Disease 2000 report from the World Health Organization (WHO). Prior studies have found that 20% to 30% of adults have OA of the hand, with the prevalence rising to more than 50% after 60 years of age. "Although hand OA is highly prevalent among adults and can significantly impact the quality of life for suffers, therapeutic options are still limited," said Cem Gabay, M.D., with University Hospitals of Geneva in Switzerland and lead investigation of the Finger osteoArthritis Chondroitin Treatment Study (FACTS). "There are few trials examining therapeutic approaches specific to hand OA and much of the available evidence has been extrapolated from studies investigating other forms of OA." The single-center, placebo-controlled FACTS trial included 162 patients with radiographic hand OA who met inclusion criteria - spontaneous hand pain on the visual analogue scale (VAS) of 40 mm (scale 0-100) or more and Functional Index for Hand OA (FIHOA) level of 6 (scale 0-30). Participants received either 800 mg of chondroitin sulfate (80 patients) or placebo (82 patients) once daily for 6 months. Results showed that patients in the chondroitin sulfate group had significant decrease in global hand pain compared with the placebo group, reflecting an 8.7 decrease on the VAS. Hand function also improved significantly for those taking chondroitin sulfate, decreasing more than 2 points on the FIHOA. Researchers also reported significantly improved hand function and reduction in morning stiffness for participants taking chondroitin sulfate versus placebo. "Our findings show chondroitin sulfate is a safe and effective treatment for patients with hand OA," concluded Dr. Gabay. "Alternative therapies, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), provide similar pain reducing effects, but with considerably more long-term toxicities." Chondroitin sulfate is a naturally occurring molecule and a main component of joint cartilage. The chondroitin sulfate agent used in this study (Chondrosulf®) is licensed as a drug in Europe and not as a nutripharmaceutical; in the U.S. chondroitin sulfate is sold as a supplement and often paired with glucosamine. [/size][/font]Wed, 07 Sep 2011 22:47:42 GMTpat59http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4488122-4628-1.aspxI see there aren't many posts here, but I have not found any other forums as of yet. I need advice for my 69 year old mother. She has osteoarthritis in her hips and knees really bad. She gets enough exercise, as she goes out every day. But walking and all doesn't help her pain. She can't sleep well, because some nights she wakes up crying. I am very worried. She refuses to get surgery of any kind, because she does not want to be put to sleep or cut on. The arthritis medication she was on before gave her heart palpitations, and made her feel like she was going to have a heart attack. I think it may have been celebrex? Not sure on that. She doesn't want shots. Is there some kind of remedy that anyone has tried that will help relieve pain? Some kind of cream, oil, or something? I hate to see her in so much pain, and I'm afraid that she will be bedridden soon because of it.Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:17:49 GMTWanda Monroehttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4487877-4628-1.aspx[size=3][b]What’s your weapon against arthritis?[/b][/size][size=2]Fight Back Against Arthritis. Go to [url=http://www.fightarthritispain.org]FightArthritisPain.org[/url] to learn how movement can help in your fight against arthritis. Even the simplest moves can be your secret weapon against arthritis.[/size]Wed, 31 Aug 2011 16:04:46 GMTAF Dudehttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4475069-4628-1.aspxmy RA factor was first positive then months later negative. My Rhummy said may be OA but symthoms don't match with OA on the fingers. I'm just confused.Thu, 12 May 2011 13:28:01 GMTMimi68123http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4484059-4628-1.aspxI'm interested in knowing what symptoms you had at the time you decided to have knee replacement. How bad was the pain? What did the pain feel like? Was it constant?Will appreciate any help so that I can make the best decision. Thanks.Sun, 31 Jul 2011 13:19:03 GMTLynn Samuelhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4482479-4628-1.aspx[font=System][size=5]Exercise is very very important for any Arthritic condition. However, it varies according to the age, lifestyle and stage of the ailment. ONE Common exercise for all the conditions is Aqua exercise meaning water exercise. You don't have to know swimming but if you can even soak in a bath tub full of warm water with salt in it- it helps. You could do the aqua exercise in the bath tub like moving your hands, knees, legs and so on.. For arthritis in the hand - palm , for e.g., you could put your hand in a bowl of warm salt water and do some movements. It surely helps- NOW it may not "cure". The key word here is may. Too much running is not good for the joints. Walking is better. Fast exercise may not be the best.But 30 min of slow paced exercise can do wonders.At the least, the condition may not deteriorate.Yogasan is the need of the hour. This sounds common-but, I tell myself everyday this : Positive thinking.[/size][/font]Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:51:21 GMTHarmonyhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4481630-4628-1.aspxI am being told that in order to avoid future metatarsal stress fractures, and ongoing pain in the big toe joint due to long time OA, I need to have joint fusion surgery in that toe joint. If you have any experience with this, AND you are a runner, could you send me feedback. My key questions are:1. will I be able to run once the joints are fused?2. how long is recovery?Thanks,StaceyMon, 11 Jul 2011 12:09:11 GMTStacey Donohuehttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4479139-4628-1.aspx[size=3]I'm pretty sure I'll be here a lot, asking a lot of questions. I'm a very curious person and often don't understand the why's unless it's explained.Hi. I'm 29. When I was about 20, I was told I have arthritis in my knees. Apparently it was so bad that the dr. wanted to replace my knees, and I know that is pretty rare at my age. I didn't get it done, though, and my knees seem to be doing ok.When I was about 24-25 I was told I have degenerative disc disease in my spine. The doctor at the time wanted to get me off the meds she had me on for the pain, and then once that happened, she didn't do anything else.So I've been having a lot of pain off and on for the last year and a half in my legs. My doctor told me to just live with it, so I switched drs. This new one sent me to an orthopedic dr. who took an x-ray of my spine, put me on meloxicam, and is sending me to physical therapy. I've also had an RA factor test done because I was having a lot of pain in my fingers earlier this year and it came out normal.My first question, which I know I should have asked the dr, but I didn't think of it at the time, is why would the dr send me to an orthopedic dr compared to a rheumatologist? Does anyone know why they decide one is better for a certain person than the other is? I know that they both deal with arthritis, but I thought that she would have sent me to the rheumatologist because they specialize in arthritis. My second question is about my medication. I've been having pain directly on my spine since I started taking it, which isn't normal for me. Before I started taking it I hardly ever had pain directly on my spine, its always my lower back closer to my sides and my legs. And my fingers have started hurting again. I hadn't had the finger pain for at least a month before I started taking the meloxicam. Does meloxicam frequently cause problems like that? Or am I the oddball out? I asked at the drs office and they said they never heard of it causing problems like that before. "It is an anti-inflammatory, you know."Do you think that not getting the knee surgery is playing a role in why my spine is so bad? And does degenerative disc disease sound like the right diagnosis? Or do they all sound too much alike to decide if it sounds close? Oh, and should I have the ortho dr x-ray my fingers the next time I go back to see if there's something showing in them too? Or should I just deal with it like my other dr said?See, I told you I have a lot of questions! :laugh:I think I'm as scared as the lady in the other post. I'm scared of needing to have surgery done. What if something goes wrong? And surgery doesn't always help. What kind of life can you have if your house bound and can't get anywhere and you're always in pain? I know when my leg hurts, I can't do anything but sit and it drives me nuts. ThanksDaisy[/size]Mon, 20 Jun 2011 18:30:24 GMTCrazyDaisyLouhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4479808-4628-1.aspxI saw this topic discussed somewhere on this website and can't find it again so apologies for clogging up the Forum. I just came back from NM where it's dry as a bone and after a couple days there I was scampering like a 12 yr old (maybe a slight exaggeration), now back in the soggy North East and my knees are killing me. Is there anything definitive re the relationship of OA & humidity? What about altitude and OA? I'm ready to move there I felt so good...except for the altitude but I can get used to that! Thanks all....Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:22:08 GMTAnn Scotthttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4372393-4628-1.aspxMy doctor lectured me forever about moving and exercising and I knew he was right but what he didn't understand was that every time I walked, my knees swelled and hurt badly. It would take me 2 days to recover from a mile walk. I work retail and am on my feet for long hours so that compounds the problem. I decided to try the new exercise rocker shoes that are out in stores under several different brands. For 2 months now, I have been able to handle the long hours at work without any knee pain. I have now begun to walk for exercise. This morning, Iwalked 3 miles without ANY PAIN!:DFri, 28 May 2010 10:21:12 GMTShazhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4470512-4628-1.aspx[font=Times New Roman][size=3]From the WALL STREET JOURNAL[b]Doctors' New Advice for Joint Pain: Get Moving [/b]April 12, 2011Doctors increasingly are recommending physical activity to help osteoarthritis patients, overturning the more traditional medical advice for people to take it easy to protect their joints.The new treatment approach comes as osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease once considered a problem of old age, has begun showing up in more middle-aged and young adults as a result of obesity and sports injuries. [b]Studies have shown that weight loss, combined with exercises aimed at improving joint function and building up muscles that support the joints, can significantly improve patients' health and quality of life compared with medication alone. [/b]"The most dangerous exercise you can do when you have arthritis is none," says Kate Lorig, director of the Patient Education Research Center at Stanford University. Since [b]each pound of extra body weight adds the equivalent of four pounds to the knees, even a small loss of weight can cut in half the risk of knee osteoarthritis for women, who are at higher risk than men, studies show.[/b]The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stepped up funding to programs in a dozen states that include[b] free six-week classes to teach osteoarthritis patients to take an active role in managing their disease[/b]. The federal Administration on Aging has funded similar programs in most parts of the country. And the nonprofit National Council on Aging has begun offering [b]an online self-management program for patients to use on their own time. . . . [/b]. . . .[b] Strengthening the muscles around the knees or hip can help support the joints and take over some of the shock-absorbing functions played by cartilage, according to Harvard Medical School experts. Stronger muscles can also hold the joints in the most functional and least painful position. Regular activity can also replenish lubrication to the cartilage of the joint to reduce stiffness and pain.[/b] . . . Read complete article:[url]http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703841904576257151484986480.html[/url][/size][/font]Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:41:34 GMTJoy125http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4472290-4628-1.aspxHi All. I have osteoarthritis in my right hand. I am a pianist with surgery scheduled in two weeks for replacement of the knuckle of my middle finger (MP). I'm starting to feel anxious about the procedure and wondered if there are any others (especially those whose occupation require strength and flexibility of the joint) who have gone through this surgery and could provide encouragement or just ideas of what to be aware of.Mon, 25 Apr 2011 09:35:55 GMTTammy Millerhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4472199-4628-1.aspxHello,I could use some advice from people with experience on this...I am 38 years old and recently learned I have some serious knee degeneration. I went to the orthopedic because I could no longer bend or straighten my legs. I had the feeling of my knees being swollen. The x-rays showed bone on bone in both knees. This winter my knees began buckling and I fell a few times. Due to my age and other features, the orthopedic seemed to wash his hands of me and sent me to a rheumatologist.Well, I just went through 2 months of testing and went back to the rheum for the follow up. He basically said my bloodwork showed nothing abnormal and was inconclusive. I did show signs of Sjogren's and some elevated c-reactive protein...but only slightly. The mri showed level 4 cartilage wear in both knees, synovitis, and several bone spurs, debris in the fluid as well. The rheumatologist told me he was not seeing anything to warrant treatment and 'good luck.'Now, both the ortho and the rheum. told me I would need new knees within 2-3 years. The weird thing is, I am not in too much pain...no one knows why. But I have lost about 35% range of motion in knees. But neither drs know why. I am told I am too young for knee replacement and all dr's have seemed to send me away until I am in pain or am ready for knee replacement. I am SO confused. I just thought I had some inflammation...but was shocked to learn how advanced it is. I am also very young for such advanced degeneration. I have no advice, no diagnosis, no treatment plan, no direction. I asked the rheum. last week if all I do is just wait until I fall more or keep buckling...and he said to get a brace and a cane...seriously? I am 38 years old, 3 young kids and very active. A cane? that was your advice?Since I am not in terrible pain neither dr seems to think I need care currently. I am very scared that things will progress. I have done some reading and that painful spot in my elbows appear to be a bursitis of some type...my left tendon is really swollen and tight and has a bump on it. I will see the ortho about this in a few days. Both my feet hurt in the morning and if I attempt the stairs too fast I have to take them one at a time. So I guess there is some pain, but not debilitating pain. However, I am only 38 and so scared about what to expect. Why are these drs sending me away? Isn't arthritis something that requires treatment or at least some sort of care? I am going back to the ortho for the swollen achilles tendon but should I find a new rheumatologist? If it is only osteo-arthritis do I need a rheum? oh, my sister has rheumatoid arthritis and has been in treatment for 7 years now, she has very very different symptoms than mine. And no good dr recommendation. I also had several miscarriages and was treated as an anti-phosphilipid pregnancy. However, the current bloodwork does not support a diagnosis of lupus. But possibly something to consider?I am getting pretty worn down emotionally and want to find some answers or a plan. I would appreciate some thoughts...Thank you,StaceySun, 24 Apr 2011 11:48:29 GMTStacey.http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4431822-4628-1.aspxI was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in my left knee 3 years ago, in an ER after my knee started hurting like crazy, when I knew I had done nothing to aggravate it.I've always been an active person. Nothing high impact, but sitting around for too long has always driven me up the wall, so walking, hiking and such were favorite activities. Three years after my diagnosis, I've been through varying forms of physical therapy, had injections, tried multiple braces (The cheap ones, from Walmart and such, because affording a custom brace was, and still is not possible) and am currently on a pain management regime, but now the pain is bleeding through that in a big way.A few days ago I ended up in the ER, partially because the fact that my knee gave out every 3'rd step or so was a major concern, the knee was swelling a LOT, and the pain is now constant and has been for several months now, coupled with occasional numbness down the inside of my leg due to what they listed as a 'Joint Effusion', getting more severe the more time passes, at an alarming rate.... The pain doesn't need any sort of trigger anymore either, sometimes randomly flaring up to the point of unbearable for no apparent reason. X-rays were taken, and when compared to those from 3 years ago (and a couple taken in between then and now), even to me it was obvious that it has gotten much worse, a fact the Dr. confirmed.The Doctor working with me was pretty straight forward, she told me that she was surprised I could even stand (Well, arguably. To me, having to brace yourself against a wall does not really qualify.), let alone walk (Again, what I do when on my feet isn't what I would consider 'walking') - It's outright maddening.Right now I can barely make it around the house, bracing myself against whatever is nearest, so when my Fiance' and I go out and I have to get out of the car for any period of time, I've started using a wheelchair. I'm well aware that this is not the best solution, and I do exercise my knee whenever I can, but due to my knee being unable to hold my weight, I couldn't stay at the job I had (Gas station attendant, lot's of walking, crouching, lifting.), and so paying for even a regular Dr. visit is currently a huge ordeal. I don't have insurance (And that job didn't offer it anyway), so getting an Osteoarthritis specific knee brace is financially out of the question.I'm at a loss on what to do. I see my Dr. tomorrow, but he's a general practitioner, and though he can help with some things, and could give me a reference to a specialist, if I can barely afford this Dr. visit, a specialist is insanely out of reach.That leads to a question that's very important to me; What on earth DO I do about this? I've applied for disability, but that takes months.. or longer, even with the most thorough medical records, I have no way to get a brace that will keep my knee from giving out and jerking out to the side, and though I have a borrowed wheelchair, I would rather NOT spend years in it until I find some way to save up to get something done, if I can find a way around that. It's been made clear by multiple Dr.'s that the left knee needs replaced, and that my right knee, while not in as bad of shape is quickly going the same route as the left, but from what information I've been able to gather, if you don't have insurance, and it's not life threatening.. You're firmly wedged between a rock and a hard place.I would just like to know if there's any way to get help with this issue. I have no problem with working, even if said work has to be done in a wheelchair (Or brace if somehow one falls out of the sky), and so I imagine eventually I can get insurance, but ... Since this is a preexisting condition, that adds a whole new list of problems. I've only applied for disability as an 'absolute worst case scenario' thing, due to the insistence of family members.Just.. Lost, and feeling hopeless at this point. I would appreciate any information people have to offer, and Thanks in advance.Sun, 17 Oct 2010 17:11:22 GMTVincent McGuyerhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4453228-4628-1.aspx[font=Times New Roman][size=4]Risk of Developing Painful Knee Osteoarthritis Increases with WeightSee chart:[url]http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/AAG/arthritis.htm[/url][/size][/font]Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:21:35 GMTJoy125http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4469276-4628-1.aspx[size=4]According to the Arthritis Foundation, 27 million Americans live with osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis which involves a mechanical "wear and tear" of the cartilage that lines the inside of our joints and which, over time, can result in damage to the connective tissue and bone around the joint. The more you know about the condition, the greater your chance for success in finding the help that you need. "The pain of arthritis is usually described as a deep ache or throbbing joint pain that is often worse upon getting up in the morning. In addition, sufferers may also experience muscle weakness around the arthritic joint and functional limitations, such as difficulty getting up and walking," says Dr. David Wang, a specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at The Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine in McLean, Virginia. A variety of non-surgical treatments are available for those who suffer from osteoarthritis: To read the entire article:[/size][url]http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/220807.php[/url]Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:27:18 GMTNikkiLynnhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4442624-4628-1.aspx[font=Times New Roman][size=4]Caring for Hips and Knees to Avoid Artificial Joints[url]http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/24/health/24patient.html?_r=1[/url][/size][/font]Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:57:10 GMTJoy125http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4463537-4628-1.aspxDoes anyone else have arthritis in their neck? I've just joined the forum and would like to talk about symptoms and how to control them and the pain. Thanks.Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:50:55 GMTMaryEllen Hegedushttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4468916-4628-1.aspxI was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my right knee with fraying meniscus (medial and lateral), edema and fluid on the knee. I get along ok at work (unless there is alot of walking or standing), but when I get home, my knees are aching! I am taking Naproxen and putting alot of ice on the knee throughout the night. I was wondering If I should be using a cane during the day to limit the pressure on my knee. I also have osteoarthritis in my other knee and both hips. Thanks for any advice:)Fri, 01 Apr 2011 14:04:14 GMTCarl1http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4468704-4628-1.aspxI was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee. I have mild osteo in othe knee, hips, hands, cervical spine and lumbar spine. I would like some tips in dealing with the arthritis before it gets worse. I am almost 50. Thank you:)Thu, 31 Mar 2011 11:30:41 GMTCarl1http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4467362-4628-1.aspxHi everyone got my blood work back today and I do not have ra, pa or Gout ? What will happen next why am I having so much pain and swelling ? knee and ankle still swollen and hurting also knees and ankles and hip locks up at the worse times, I am hoping the doc sends for tests for other types of arthritis (oa) thats all i know it could be. Also shoulder and collar bones anyone with any idea? Knees grind with every bendThanks DarleneTue, 22 Mar 2011 22:23:45 GMTdarlene haneyhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4465587-4628-1.aspxI have had spinal arthritis since late 90s. Multiple herniated discs. 2 fusion surgeries; L3 - S1. New herniations at L1 & L2. I have been using lidoderm patches off and on for years. I am on fixed income (who isn't ;) ). I need to find a cheaper alternative to the lido patches. I'm in coverage gap. Does anyone have any info on whether or not the lido topical is as effective as the patches are. I have ketoprofen 200mg which works beautifully, but price is still a bit high. Any info, please. Merci beaucoup! LindaSat, 12 Mar 2011 08:41:51 GMTLinda28803http://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4464763-4628-1.aspx[size=5]Hi, I am young researcher who is looking into where those with arthritis or other muscle, bone, or joint conditions purchase items that assist them around the home. If you have a few minutes to spare, could you take my survey? I would truly appreciate your efforts, thank you!Ciarahttp://questionpro.com/t/AE4N1ZIyFt[size=5][/size]Mon, 07 Mar 2011 19:15:32 GMTCiara Veseyhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4453027-4628-1.aspxHi, I'm working with a start-up medical device company that is developing a non-medicinal, non-invasive treatment aimed at treating osteoarthritic knee pain. Part of the development process is learning more about people with knee pain, what they're taking for that pain right now, and if they would have any use for what we're creating.Toward that goal, I'd like to ask members of this community to fill out this survey. [url]https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&formkey=dFhvRjdpX0FOdDFRenozeWFNbWIwQ1E6MQ#gid=0[/url]While this is marketing research, we are not attempting to sell any devices at this time. All information that you enter into the survey is confidential and will not be shared with any third parties.If you have any questions or concerns about this survey, please feel free to post here or to email me directly. Thank you very much for your time and your help. Admins: If surveys are not allowed in this forum or if I've posted in the wrong place, please advise.Tue, 11 Jan 2011 17:27:40 GMTJosh Rabinowitzhttp://arthritisfoundation.portspaces.com/forums/Topic4323417-4628-1.aspxI HAVE OSTEOARTHRITIS IN JUST ONE OF MY KNEES. MY RHEUMY WANTS TO INJECT EUFLEXXA THREE WEEKS IN A ROW. HAVE ANY OF YOU HAD THIS DONE? DID IT HELP? A LADY AT THE DOCTOR'S OFFICE SAID THAT SHE HAD IT AND IT HELPED. I'M TORN AS TO WHETHER TO HAVE IT SINCE I HAVE JUST A LITTLE ARTHRITIS IN THIS ONE KNEE. THE OTHER KNEE HAS A BAKERS CYST AND BURSITIS BUT NO ARTHRITIS. STRANGE. IF I CAN PIN MY DOCTOR DOWN I'M GOING TO QUESTION HIM AS I'M IN A QUANDRY.Fri, 19 Feb 2010 19:06:22 GMTGenny