Arthritis of thumb joints

[JohnnyDee]

I have had this for some time now but thankfully it doesn't affect me holding or swinging a golf club. However previously simple day to day tasks like opening jars, tying shoes and using a computer mouse etc. are becoming pretty tricky.

Also I can be sitting watching telly and a small involuntary movement of either thumb joint results in a stabbing pain.

My Quack has prescribed stronger painkillers but I don't really want to be munching them for the rest of my natural.

Anyone on here discovered any secret potions or jallop that works to ease the pain? To make matters worse I can't use any of the painrelief gels available because I can't have Ibrufen.

Perhaps a time machine to let me go back to when I was in my 30s could be the answer.

 

[Kellfire]

Push to get yourself referred for steroid/analgesic injections into your 1st CMC joints. Push home how debilitating your condition is and you should be able to strong arm your way through the door.

But as you obviously know, you have this for life now. No getting rid of it, and overuse will only make it worse so try to rest your hands as much as possible and try to share work out across both hands to stop the wear being so bad on one side.

 

[Spear-Chucker]

There are several routes to pursue, starting point is your GP, however - you need to push hard on them. Potions and 'jollop' have never worked for me or any suffers I'm in touch with unfortunately.

Over the counter painkillers are OK short term but decent anti-inflammatories tailored to your condition will be much more effective. Arthritis comes in several flavours and understanding this will be key to you finding the right answers.

Most folk can get away with a decent prescription and live comfortably, relatively pain free.

At the other end of the scale and depending on your condition, you could be guided by a rheumatologist who have another level of actions available including cortisone injections which are great for specific joints, prescription anti-inflammatories (which knock spots off the regular stuff) and eventually chemo (not as bad as it sounds).

Don't underestimate the power of the right exercise for the joints affected and decent diet, this all helps.

If you're interested, check out this website http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org/ they are very good and provide sensible, clear practical explanations and advice.

Happy to offer advice/share experience so PM if you fancy.

 

[dewsweeper]

As long time sufferer I cannot offer a cure but for what is worth do not stand at the bar holding a cold pint, that does tingle.
Dewsweeper

 

[JohnnyDee]

Push to get yourself referred for steroid/analgesic injections into your 1st CMC joints. Push home how debilitating your condition is and you should be able to strong arm your way through the door.

I have heard these might be effective but that their benefits are relatively short-lasting? (6 months or so) Do you know if they can the be redone periodically?